Master theme 3: Developing and protecting the self
The master theme Developing and protecting the selffollows on quite naturally from
some of the personal, emotional and energetic challenges involved in psychotherapy
work for these clinical psychologists, and it highlights some key benefits they
experienced during the training days. The professionals expressed the value of
developing their knowledge: Invigorated by learning, of receiving validation of their
skills: Feedback validating in a huge way, and of having time to reflect on their work:
Being able to think deeply. They also showed a heightened awareness of their own selfcare needs: Really needing to take care of yourself.