ABSTRACT
This chapter details the findings from a survey undertaken with a range of trainee therapists, counselling, clinical and community psychologists and counsellors over 12 years. In total, 96 trainees participated in the survey from a number of British training institutions and courses. Trainees were asked a number of open-ended questions and focus groups were held. This chapter discusses the issues these trainees identified as important to their own development or were areas of concern for them. Issues relating to social media are not covered here, as Chapter 10 discusses these. This chapter does not attempt to be conclusive or to determine which areas are most important. It discusses the issues that this group of trainees viewed as important. Scenarios or reflective questions are interspersed throughout the text to assist consideration of ethical, professional and research dilemmas. Trainee quotes are used as illustrations throughout to identify a theme that was raised by trainees. In total, 93% of trainees reported that professional, ethical and research codes, combined with related teaching, provided containment, support and helped the trainees uphold standards and professionalism for all parties, thus drawing attention to potential pitfalls or dilemmas in clinical practice and when conducting research.
