Mr James Hobson began his career in psychology with an undergraduate degree in Psychology in 2005.  Following masters training in Applied Behaviour Analysis, he worked as a behaviour therapist and as a project worker in the community and voluntary sector.  Further to this, James completed a masters degree in Applied Psychology, leading to doctoral training in Counselling Psychology.  James’ doctoral experience has included work in a number of services, including pain management, child and adolescent mental health, adult mental health and Troubles related trauma. James will provide information on different training routes to becoming a Counselling Psychologist. He will share experience of his own doctoral training and highlight cost/commitment involved in training.

Dr Edel Mc Menamin is a Chartered Counselling Psychologist. She completed her degree in Ulster University Magee in 2003 and went on to do a Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling and Therapeutic Communication Ulster University, Jordanstown in 2008. Edel completed her Doctorate in Counselling Psychology in Glasgow Caledonian University/ University of Strathclyde in 2012. Since then she has worked in adult mental health in the Southern Trust and Belfast Trust. She is employed as a specialist Counselling Psychologist in the Trauma Resource Centre and is currently enhancing her skills in the area by completing a Masters in CBT for Trauma. Edel is co-chair of the BPS Division of Counselling Psychology in Northern Ireland. Edel will present on the typical work of a Counselling Psychologist. She will address what this looks like in practice and share her views on the opportunities and challenges of the profession.  

Mr Stephen Robinson is Associate Lecturer from The Open University. Stephen will speak about Counselling as a profession outside the area of Counselling Psychology.