For Jack Garner, choosing to study MA Integrative Psychotherapy was a decision rooted in his desire to become an “open, honest, and reflective practitioner.”
Having already graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Lancaster University and earning certificates in Counselling Skills from a local college, Jack was eager to build on his knowledge and skills to achieve his goal of becoming a Clinical Psychologist.
Jack said he was, “drawn to the integrative aspect of the course at the University of Central Lancashire, and as a result have found I have since adopted an eclectic, professional style and approach in my work."
He believes the course provided him with a strong foundation in core psychotherapeutic models, allowing him to cultivate his current approach to his work.
After enrolling in the MA Integrative Psychotherapy course, Jack earned a PG Certificate before deciding to exit the course to pursue a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology at the University of Edinburgh. Jack credits his experience at the University of Central Lancashire in helping him to secure this.
"This role offers a diverse range of responsibilities, which I am well-suited to, owing to the skills I have developed through my experience on the Integrative Psychotherapy course.""
Reflecting on the key takeaways from the programme, Jack highlights how it helped him manage personal biases and refine his self-presentation in the therapy room.
He said, “The knowledge and skills I've obtained from this course will be invaluable. I feel better equipped, with a deeper understanding of how I present myself in the therapy environment, and crucially, how to manage my personal biases and issues within that context. Additionally, the course has reminded me of the importance of being a good enough practitioner, rather than striving endlessly for perfection.”
Embarking on the MA was not without its challenges, but Jack sees these as part of the learning process.
He said, “Undertaking this course has been hugely beneficial for me. Whilst it presented challenges and personal confrontations along the way, it provided me with a deeper understanding of what I bring into a therapy room and how I can manage this effectively. I developed my knowledge and skills in core psychotherapeutic models and have developed a more balanced and compassionate view of my own sense of self, which I see as the most significant benefit of all.”
Jack confirms that the course was sometimes challenging and feels that the challenges enabled him to really learn and develop in ways that contribute to his future career. Along with the challenges he felt supported throughout. For those considering applying, Jack offers encouragement.
He said, “My advice would be to fully embrace the opportunity and give it a go! I feel this programme is well-suited for those eager to not only deepen their understanding of self-awareness but also to enhance their interpersonal skills and develop an understanding of what it means to truly integrate their whole self into a therapeutic setting. The journey is both demanding and fulfilling and offered me rich experiences that challenge the view of needing to be the perfect practitioner.”
Jack also extends his gratitude to the dedicated academic team at the university.
He said, “they are a fantastic team with an array of experiences and qualities who all adopt different styles and approaches to teaching and staff-student engagement. I cannot thank them enough for their kind-hearted, warm, and constructive approach to supporting me through the degree.”
