Thinking About What to Do in the New Year: Reflections for Psychotherapy Trainees
As the new year approaches, it’s a time for reflection—a chance to pause, recalibrate, and refocus on the journey ahead. For those of us already training as psychotherapists, the start of a new year offers an opportunity to think about where we are in our training, what we’ve learned, and how we can continue to grow, both personally and professionally.
Navigating the Challenges of Training
Psychotherapy training is a demanding and transformative experience. As trainees, we often juggle academic study, clinical placements, personal therapy, and sometimes work and family commitments. It’s no small feat. The start of a new year is a good moment to assess how we’re managing these demands. Are there areas where we feel stretched too thin? What support might we need to navigate the challenges more effectively?
Reflecting on this, I recently revisited the British Psychotherapy Foundation’s article on key considerations when choosing a psychotherapy training course. While aimed at those just starting their journey, it holds valuable insights for those of us already in the midst of training. For instance, it reminded me of the importance of self-care and finding a course that aligns with my core values and interests.
Deepening Self-Reflection
One of the most profound aspects of psychotherapy training is the emphasis on self-reflection. As trainees, we’re not just learning to support others; we’re also embarking on a journey of self-discovery. This process can be both exhilarating and unsettling. The new year is an ideal time to ask ourselves:
- What have I learned about myself over the past year?
- How have my own patterns and behaviours surfaced in my training and client work?
- What areas of personal growth do I want to focus on moving forward?
For me, this process is often humbling. It’s a reminder that the work we do with clients begins with the work we do on ourselves. I know I have a tendency to try to ‘fix’… this comes from a place of compassion, but I have to keep in mind what is in the service of the client.
Focusing on Skills and Development
Training in psychotherapy involves mastering a range of skills, from active listening and empathy to conceptualising cases and working within ethical frameworks. As I look ahead, I’m thinking about the specific areas I’d like to develop further. Perhaps it’s becoming more confident in formulating interventions, or deepening my understanding of a particular modality. Setting clear intentions for skill development can provide a sense of direction and purpose as the new term begins.
Connecting with Peers and Mentors
Psychotherapy training can sometimes feel isolating, especially when we’re wrestling with challenging material or intense client work. The new year is a great time to reconnect with peers and mentors. Sharing experiences with fellow trainees can be a source of support and inspiration, while mentors and supervisors can offer guidance and perspective. These relationships remind us that we’re not alone on this journey. It reminds us that in good relationships we have space to heal.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
As the new year begins, I’m reminded of why I chose to become a psychotherapist in the first place: a desire to help others, to understand the human experience, and to contribute to healing and growth. It’s easy to lose sight of these motivations in the day-to-day grind of training, but taking a moment to reconnect with them can reignite our sense of purpose. That said, when I remember I am filled with joy and excitement.
For those of us in training, the new year isn’t just about resolutions—it’s about continuing to show up, both for ourselves and for our clients. It’s about embracing the process, with all its challenges and rewards, and trusting that the hard work we’re doing now will lay the foundation for a meaningful and impactful career.
So, as we step into the new year, let’s take a deep breath, acknowledge how far we’ve come, and recommit to the path ahead. This is our time to grow, learn, and prepare to make a difference in the lives of others. Let’s make it count.
If you are considering a career in psychotherapy, my training institution can be found here: Welsh Psychotherapy Institute