About the Group
Explore, Understand, Apply
This course provides an accessible introduction to research principles and practices in counselling and psychotherapy. Designed for students, practitioners, and those new to research, it offers a road map to understand what research is, and why it is important within the field of counselling and psychotherapy
What You’ll Learn:
Foundations of research as a topic of learning
What is Ontology
What is Epistemology
Designing your research question
Developing confidence in reading, interpreting, and using research to inform therapeutic work
Who Is This Course For: This course is ideal for counselling students, trainee therapists, and practitioners seeking to strengthen their research literacy and evidence-informed practice.
Why Attend:
Gain a clear understanding of research principles in mental health contexts
Develop confidence in discussing and using research within your professional role
Your Group Facilitators
Dr Joanna Naxton
Dr Joanna Naxton, is a Doctor of Counselling Philosophy with extensive experience in counselling, psychotherapy, and mental health research. She specialises in working with complex emotional presentations, including anxiety, depression, and self-injury. Joanna lectures with Sunderland University and East Durham College on a range of counselling and psychology modules.
Dr. Naxton’s work bridges theory and practice to support both clients and practitioners. She has contributed to research on therapist emotional responses, therapeutic resistance, and professional development, and she is passionate about empowering practitioners through reflective learning and evidence-informed practice.
In addition to teaching, Dr. Naxton leads workshops, supervises practitioners, and develops innovative programs to enhance counselling and mental health practice across the North East.