Training Overview

The Arbours Training Programmes offer a unique training opportunity for those interested in integrating theory with  clinical  experience through “in house” placements in our Therapeutic Communities. These offer invaluable experience working alongside experienced therapists in addressing a wide range of complex difficulties including self-harm, severe depression and anxiety, eating disorders and psychotic behaviours. In the final years of the Full training students are also referred individual patients through our Psychotherapy Service.

We offer a range of programmes, from those who may be interested in a “taste” of our work and approach for CPD or personal interest (Associates) to those wanting to train and qualify as psychoanalytic psychotherapists (Full Training) with the UKCP.

Influenced by the thinking of RD Laing et al (see About Us), the Arbours now works alongside a range of professionals in offering residential and non-residential psychotherapy to individuals struggling with severe emotional difficulties. Our overall aim is to see patients as individuals, rather than as a “diagnosis”.

The training explores and critiques in foundational psychoanalytic theories and techniques (e.g. Freud, Klein, Object Relations etc. ) as well as contemporary thinking such as that of the Independent, Relational and Lacanian schools. It also explores both contemporary and historical attitudes to mental illness and emotional distress from the early asylums to the present day.

The Arbours training also places a particular emphasis upon exploring contemporary social and cultural factors at work in psychotherapeutic encounters including class, race, language, sexuality and gender.

Our academic year runs in line with the Calendar year, applications received from June onwards for January start date. The next intake is Jan 2012.

2012 Term dates

Please click here for how to apply and to request a Training Information Pack containing more details regarding each programme’s content, application forms and procedure, course requirements etc. or complete our enquiry form.

If you are unsure which level of programme to apply for, please contact our Training Administrator on training@arboursassociation.org or 020 8341 0916 and a member of the Training Committee will contact you to discuss further.