Ethics in Participatory Research on Counselling and Psychotherapy

Increasingly, therapy practitioners and researchers position themselves within a pluralistic perspective that draws on the value of multiple sources of knowledge. The aim of this book is to highlight the distinctive ethical challenges and opportunities associated with a pluralistic research orientation. The book begins by succinctly summarising ethical concepts and strategies, such as informed consent, confidentiality, and avoidance of harm, that form the foundations of ethically sound research. An overview of distinctive ethical features of pluralistic research is then provided, followed by a series of chapters that address specific strands of ethics work. The closing chapter discusses approaches to training and ethical inquiry, the establishment of communities of research practice, and the provision of forms of counselling and psychotherapy that promote social justice. Each chapter will open with a concise chapter outline and close with a summary of key learning points, take-home skills, and follow-up learning activities. Case examples from published studies will be used to illustrate how theory and concepts have been implemented in real-life investigative contexts. Written in plain English that is accessible to a wide range of readers, with recommended reading signposted in respect of advanced topics, this book will be an essential resource for practicing and trainee professionals and researchers in the psychological professions.

John McLeod is a counselling educator, researcher, and author who is committed to the development of flexible, co-created ways of working together in therapy that build on client strengths and resources. He has published widely on a range of topics associated with research in counselling and psychotherapy that allows clients to express their views on the therapy they have received. Julia McLeod is an experienced practitioner, educator, and researcher in the field of counselling and psychotherapy, currently based at the University of Aberdeen. She has particular interests in embedded counselling, pluralistic approaches to therapy, and the use of deliberate practice to facilitate therapist development.

Introduction 1. Participatory research on counselling and psychotherapy: a brief introduction 2. Pluralistic ethics for participatory research 3. Aligning with social justice research goals 4. Nothing about us, without us: addressing the reality of power and privilege 5. Building relationships: ethical aspects of working together to produce practical knowledge 6. Beyond averages: respecting uniqueness and diversity 7. Responding ethically to the personal challenges and opportunities associated with research participation 8. Methodological innovation and flexibility: harnessing courage, imagination, and openness to learning 9. Implications and learning for therapy practice 10. References