Research Paper - A thematic analytic exploration of how counselling psychologists in the UK experience and position themselves in relation to the NICE guidelines

Abstract

BackgroundCollective professional identity is dynamic and responsive to the context within which it exists. Thus the current climate of a pervasive medical model as experienced through the imposition of National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) guidelines (2004) and associated Increased Access to Psychological Therapies is relevant to the profession of counselling psychology. Therefore, the possible professional position and the lived experience of its members, whilst existing in a professional arena that requires professionals to fulfil pre-determined criteria, is of interest to this paper.MethodologyA qualitative design explored the declared position and related experiences of counselling psychologists. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine qualified professionals and transcripts subjected to thematic analysis.FindingsThree key themes relevant to the declared position and associated individual experience were discerned in the data, namely: NICE experienced as relevant and affecting counselling psychology; counselling psychology declaring a pluralistic identity in relation to NICE guidelines; and client as focus.ConclusionParticipants described a desire to engage with the NICE guidelines, and pluralism seemed to offer them a valid voice with which to achieve this. Pluralism also functioned to offer greater professional jurisdiction and potential autonomy. Pluralism whilst positive in many ways did also produce professional anxiety for many as they struggled with finding their identity within it. Overall, the proclaimed identity appeared to show a dynamically responsive profession that may influence the psychological arena.