Connexus Institute

On August 12th, the global community celebrates International Youth Day, established by the United Nations to recognise the creativity, potential, and capacity of young people to drive change. This day promotes the World Programme of Action for Youth and highlights the vital role youth play in fostering peace and countering extremism.

Empowering young minds through education, love and community support can help individuals contribute to social innovation, eradicate inequality, and build a culture of peace. Standing together in support of youth and their dreams creates a better future for everyone.

Join us for 'Therapeutic Relationship is a Two-Way Street' with Dr Helena Hargaden, a sought-after, stimulating two-day workshop designed for those wanting to deepen their clinical work. Held on 21st & 22nd September in Hove, this workshop delves into the complex world of the unconscious and explores the bidirectional process of relational TA. Dr. Hargaden, an award-winning expert, will guide you through experiential exercises and group discussions to enhance your understanding of transferential and intersubjective processes. Secure your spot now as spaces are limited.

Book your place here: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/ongoing-professional-development/therapeutic-relationship-is-a-two-way-street-with-dr-helena-hargaden-47/?_gl=1*mfyrfp*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTU4NzY4NzAxMC4xNzIzMTEzNDI4*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMzExMzQyOC4xLjEuMTcyMzExMzQzMC4wLjAuMA..

Advance your career with Connexus Institute's 'Diploma in Supervision' training.

Ready to take the next step in your professional development? Connexus Institute offers a Diploma in Supervision, ideal for counsellors, psychotherapists, teachers, mental health workers, medical staff, social workers, and other helping professionals. This course, aligned with BACP and UKCP standards, focuses on evidence-based supervisory practice, helping you develop a reflective supervision style adaptable across various mediums, including face-to-face, online, and telephone supervision. Our supervision training consistently receives outstanding reviews from participants, ensuring a high-quality experience with us.

Held over six weekends from October 2024 to March 2025, the course combines face-to-face sessions, pre-reading, and interactive methods such as group discussions and exercises. Key topics include developing working alliances, managing supervisory contracts, and handling fitness-to-practice issues. You will also engage in 'live' supervision practice with peer and tutor feedback, covering unconscious processes, supervision modes, and creative techniques.

Upon completion, you'll receive a Connexus Institute Diploma in Supervision with 120 hours of CPD, ready to practice as a supervisor within your field. Join us to enhance your skills and expand your professional network. For payment plans and to apply, visit our website or contact us directly.

Secure your place today with Connexus Institute: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/diploma-in-supervision-19/?_gl=1*1a3b0xu*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTg1OTc2MDc1MS4xNzIzMDI3MTA4*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMzAyNzEwOC4xLjAuMTcyMzAyNzEwOC4wLjAuMA..

Course Dates:
- Oct 19-20, 2024
- Nov 16-17, 2024
- Dec 14-15, 2024
- Jan 18-19, 2025
- Feb 15-16, 2025
- Mar 15-16, 2025
Cost: £2,400 (inclusive of VAT)

We are delighted to invite all aspiring and existing counsellors and psychotherapists to our exciting upcoming one-day course, "The 'Business' of Therapy," on Friday 22nd November. Led by Amanda Bradley, an experienced psychotherapist and former corporate finance leader, this 6-hour, in-person session will equip you with the skills to transform your therapy practice into a thriving business.

This course covers:
- Building a Thriving Practice: Effective strategies for launching and marketing your practice, attracting clients, and managing them efficiently.
- Governance: Understanding regulatory and ethical frameworks to build client trust.
- Financial Sustainability: Essential financial management skills to secure your practice's long-term success.

Date: Friday 22nd November 2024
Time: 9:30 am - 4:30 pm
Mode: In-room and In-person
Cost: £120 (inclusive of VAT)

Secure your spot today and take the first step towards a successful career! Book your place here: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/ongoing-professional-development/the-business-of-therapy/?_gl=1*hbji6s*_up*MQ..*_ga*NTY2Mjk5NTM0LjE3MjI4NTU4OTg.*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMjg1NTg5OC4xLjAuMTcyMjg1NTg5OC4wLjAuMA..

Happy Pride Y'all!

🌈 Happy Brighton Pride 2024! 🌈

Brighton and Hove will come alive this weekend with the annual Pride celebration on August 3rd and 4th. At Connexus, we are proud to be part of such a wonderful, diverse and accepting community here in Brighton. Brighton Pride has raised over £1.3 million for local causes, supporting numerous LGBTQ+ and HIV organizations through the Brighton Rainbow Fund and Pride Social Impact Fund.

As the UK’s largest Pride festival, Brighton Pride is a testament to our city’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and community support. We at Connexus Institute celebrate the unity and joy that Pride brings, reinforcing our shared values of acceptance, authenticity and well-being. Happy Pride, to all!

Welcome to CPD Sussex

A hub for Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and networking opportunities designed for counsellors and psychotherapists on the vibrant Sussex South Coast.

A dynamic partnership between New Road Psychotherapy, Brighton and Hove, and Connexus Institute of Psychological Development and Training, Hove.

Guided by experienced psychotherapists, supervisors, and trainers Rory Singer and Patrick Brook.
Our mission is to foster an environment for meaningful connections, networking, and idea exchange for all professionals in counselling and psychotherapy.

Low-Cost Networking Workshop Events

When: Bi-monthly, from September 2024 to July 2025, on Tuesday evenings from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Where: Connexus Institute training premises, 5 The Drive, Hove, BN3 3JE.

Cost: Only £10 per person, includes a 2-hour CPD Certificate, tea, coffee, and refreshments.

Go to the New Road Psychotherapy 'Courses' page to book or on eventbrite:

https://www.newroadpsychotherapy.com/new-events/cpd-sussex

https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cpd-sussex-tickets-944094561247

Event Schedule

10th Sep 2024 - Framing Suffering: Using Metaphor in Understanding Psychological Pain with Patrick Brook & Rory Singer

12th Nov 2024 - A Short Introduction to Working with S*x and Psychosexual Issues with Em Waring

14th Jan 2025 – An Introduction to Group Analysis with Sue Griffin

11th March 2025 - Mental Health First Aid with Dr Hulya Ho**er

13th May 2025 – Save the Date with a speaker to be confirmed

8th July 2025 - Are ‘process groups’ in counselling and psychotherapy training ethical? with Patrick Brook

In recent times, many of us have been reflecting on global political leadership. The challenges and complexities faced by leaders worldwide underscore the importance of effective leadership in navigating turbulent waters.

Transactional Analysis (TA) offers a valuable lens for understanding leadership. Its insights into organizational dynamics and human behaviour are increasingly relevant as leadership contexts grow more complex. While we often consider TA from an individual perspective, have you thought about its application on a macro level?

Vanessa Williams' recent article in the TAJ, 'Does Transactional Analysis Have Enough to Offer Those in Leadership Positions to Enhance Their Understanding of the Role?' offers an intriguing perspective. Check it out in full here: https://doi.org/10.1080/03621537.2024.2359285

We can hardly believe this is the final weekend of formal training for our fourth-year psychotherapy students at Connexus Institute, Brighton and Hove. This moment marks a significant milestone not only for them but also for us, as the majority of them are the first cohort to complete the entire Connexus training program - from 101 to Stage One (Foundation), Clinical Stage Two (a) and (b), and finally, this last year, Stage Three - they have come a long way.

We've witnessed incredible presentations on psychotherapy identities and have been deeply moved by how each has shaped and been shaped by their peers over these four years. We've shared fun, laughter, and tears; we've had ducks (!), a lovely guest session from Carol on working in Private Practice We've had sea swimming (for some), great food (for all), and even some axe throwing! We've cherished meaningful connections and honoured each other in profound ways.

It has been an extraordinary end to an exceptional year group – here are just a few pics!

Looking for TA Supervision?

Carole (Cazzy) Stilwell is an experienced PTSTA Psychotherapist, Trainer and Supervisor. We are looking forward to welcoming her at Connexus during the next academic year as a guest tutor. Cazzy is currently offering online and in-person TA supervision. If you are looking for a TA supervisor, either individual or to form a group, please contact Cazzy directly on [email protected]

Today is National Schizophrenia Awareness Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about this mental condition. We want to acknowledge Zefiro Mellacqua's significant contributions to the field of mental health, particularly his use of transactional analysis (TA) to work with schizophrenia. Mellacqua recently received the 2024 Eric Berne Memorial Award for his work on developing a transactional analysis model for understanding and treating schizophrenia in clinical practice. His 2020 publication, 'Transactional Analysis of Schizophrenia: The Naked Self', played a key role in earning him this notable accolade. His innovative model is praised for its significant impact on clinical practice, offering new hope and therapeutic strategies for individuals with schizophrenic psychoses.

Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness affecting thoughts, feelings, and behaviour, but it can be managed, allowing many to lead fulfilling lives. Contrary to media portrayals, it doesn't equate to a 'split personality.' Experiences of schizophrenia vary widely, with some individuals experiencing hallucinations or delusions. Despite myths, people with schizophrenia can maintain jobs, relationships, and hobbies. Effective treatment, which may include early intervention, therapy, and medication, is crucial. Additionally, people with schizophrenia are more likely to be harmed by others than to harm anyone. Awareness and understanding of the condition are essential for breaking down stigma and misconceptions.

Happy Birthday, Patrick!

Today, we’re celebrating the something-ty something birthday of our Academic Director, Patrick.

On this special day, we wish you a ton of joy, endless happiness, huge success and enough air in your lungs to get those candles out! May your year be packed with new triumphs, unforgettable moments, and the rock-solid knowledge that you’re genuinely appreciated by all of us.

Happy Birthday from all of us at Connexus

We have some excellent news to share today! We are pleased to announce that Deb Neville and Kat Gibbens successfully completed their viva examinations this morning. Deb's examiners were Liz Bingham, CTA (P), and Louise Herbert, CTA (P), while Kat's examiners were Liz Bingham, CTA (P), and Susanna Scutt, CTA (P).

Deb and Kat have met all the requirements to become Level 6 NCPS-Accredited Counsellors with a Connexus Institute Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. Hearing about their unique approaches, aspirations, and plans for the future was inspiring. We are incredibly proud that they chose Connexus to achieve their vocational goals, and we are confident they will both accomplish remarkable things. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Deb and Kat and wish them and all those they support the best in their future endeavours. Many congratulations to Deb and Kat from all of us here at Connexus.

When we receive feedback like this from our students, we know we are doing something right!

"I feel that Connexus are always setting me up for success."

It’s wonderful to know that we provide meaningful support as well as solid academic training. We are committed to helping our students thrive both personally and professionally!

We’re also thrilled to share some lovely moments from our third-year psychotherapy trainees (Stage Two-b), who have completed their training year in style this weekend.

Heartfelt congratulations to all the trainees for their remarkable achievement.

Special thanks to tutors Pippa Fairhead and Liz Bingham for their dedication, professionalism, and support.

As we wrap up the final weekend of the Diploma in Supervision with Patrick Brook, TSTA (P), and Anita Webster, PTSTA (P), we are thrilled to congratulate our dedicated students on their impressive assessments! Your hard work, passion, commitment and philosophies have truly shone through!

Patrick and Anita are already looking forward to another enriching journey starting this October 2024 with the next Diploma in Supervision course. We're excited to continue this tradition of excellence live and in-room at Connexus Institute, Hove.

Thank you all for making this experience so memorable and inspiring. Let's keep learning and growing together!

Are you ready to gain deeper insights into human relationships and enhance your communication skills? Discover the power of Transactional Analysis with our TA101 weekend course at Connexus Institute, offered throughout the summer and autumn. This two-day course is perfect for those seeking to understand human relationships, communication, and behaviour patterns.

Led by experienced trainers, our dynamic and engaging course will cover key TA concepts such as:
- The impact of early life experiences on behaviour
- Development of individual personality
- Psychological game-playing and recurring life patterns
- Communication patterns and resistance to change

Dates: 3-4 Aug, 31 Aug - 1 Sep, 21-22 Sep, 7-8 Nov
Times: 9:30am - 4:30pm
Location: In-room in Hove
Cost: £240 (incl. VAT)

Upon completion, receive a Connexus TA 101 Certificate accredited by the International and European Associations of Transactional Analysis. Enhance your understanding of yourself and others, and take the first step towards a rewarding career in psychotherapy.

Book your place now: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/psychotherapy-counselling-training/ta-101-introduction-to-transactional-analysis-24/?_gl=1*g27q2k*_up*MQ..*_ga*NTY5OTEzOTc4LjE3MjEzODk5MjA.*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMTM4OTkxOS4xLjEuMTcyMTM4OTkyMy4wLjAuMA..

This year marks the 60th anniversary of Eric Berne's seminal work, "Games People Play," and the founding of the International Transactional Analysis Association (ITAA). Berne's groundbreaking theories have profoundly influenced psychotherapy, providing essential insights into human behaviour and relationships. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour Berne's legacy and continue to be inspired by his foundational work in Transactional Analysis.

We are in mid-summer (apparently), and while Brighton and Hove may not be famous for floral displays, there are still some beautiful scenes, like this one from the South Downs near Falmer. Taking this route to Connexus one day, I (Patrick) thought about a memorable trip to Japan with my friend and colleague, Sally. In Kyoto, we had the opportunity to marvel at the Cherry Blossom. We learnt from our guide that the concept of flowers and trees blooming in their own time and way has a particular name: Oubaitori (oh-buy-toe-ree), which essentially captures a more profound wisdom about avoiding comparison and celebrating uniqueness. Oubaitori can teach us a few things:

1. Just as these trees and flowers don’t compete, we should avoid comparing ourselves to others. Our own values, experiences, and choices shape our individual journeys.

2. Every person has distinct strengths and qualities. Our differences make life rich and enjoyable.

3. Follow your own timing and manner. Do what feels right for you and embrace your own successes and failures.

Oubaitori offers a refreshing perspective about finding fulfilment by being true to yourself and celebrating your unique journey.

Are you ready to deepen your expertise in couples therapy and enhance your practice?

Join us this autumn for an intensive six-day course led by Annette Jones, a seasoned psychotherapist with over 18 years of experience. This course covers key areas such as conflict resolution, managing infidelity, understanding sexual issues, and more, providing you with practical strategies to handle relationship complexities in a clinical setting.

Dates: 14th-15th Sep, 26th-27th Oct, 23rd-24th Nov 2024
Times: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Location: In-room in Hove
Cost: £690 (incl. VAT)

Upon completion, earn 36 CPD hours and receive a Connexus Institute 'Certificate in Working Therapeutically with Couples'. This is a valuable opportunity to advance your practice and enhance your expertise. Book your place now: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/ongoing-professional-development/certificate-in-working-with-couples-61/?_gl=1*lizo7f*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzM1NTIwNTA3LjE3MjEwNDAyMjQ.*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMTA0MDIyMy4xLjAuMTcyMTA0MDIyMy4wLjAuMA..

Congratulations to our three Foundation Year groups for completing their training year with excellence!

You're moving on to Stage Two of Transactional Analysis counselling and psychotherapy training this September, and we couldn't be more excited for your continued journey.

A heartfelt thank you to Lisa Bedford-Cooper, Mel Burgess, and Justine James for your unwavering dedication and being such an excellent tutor team.

Today, July 12th, has become known as National Simplicity Day in honour of Henry David Thoreau, whose writings remind us of the profound value of living simply. In his seminal work 'Walden', Thoreau advocated for a life stripped of excess and focused on nature, reflection, and personal growth. He wrote, "Our life is frittered away by detail... Simplify, simplify."

Today, we acknowledge Thoreau's wisdom as a reminder of the importance of mindfulness and clarity. By embracing simplicity and tuning out the extraneous, we can foster deeper connections and greater self-awareness in our personal and professional lives - and be more present to enjoy our lives!

Happy Birthday, 🎉

Wishing you a year filled with joy and success. Thank you for all your help behind the scenes at Connexus.

Join us in celebrating Stefan's special day!

Unlock New Depths: Therapeutic Relationship is a Two-Way Street with Dr. Helena Hargaden

Connexus Institute is proud to offer a transformative two-day workshop designed for advanced counsellors and psychotherapists. Led by the esteemed Dr. Helena Hargaden, this course will explore the complex world of the unconscious and focus on the dynamic interplay between therapist and client.

Course Details:
- Dates: 21st - 22nd September 2024
- Times: 9:30am to 4:30pm
- Mode: In-room in Hove
- Cost: £300 (inclusive of VAT)

Why Attend?
- In-Depth Exploration: Discover how using your own sense of 'self' in therapy can bring transformational change in your clients.
- Relational TA: Learn about the award-winning Domains of Transference and relational Transactional Analysis.
- Experiential Learning: Engage in experiential exercises and group discussions to deepen your understanding of transferential and intersubjective processes.
- Expert Guidance: Benefit from the knowledge and experience of Dr. Helena Hargaden, a leader in the field of relational TA.

What You'll Gain:
- Theoretical Insights: Grasp the theoretical underpinnings of relational TA.
- Practical Skills: Develop the ability to work with the relational unconscious and use countertransference effectively.
- Professional Growth: Enhance your clinical practice by understanding the bidirectional nature of therapeutic relationships.

This workshop is perfect for those looking to deepen their clinical work and explore new ways of thinking about the therapeutic process. Spaces are limited, so we recommend booking early to secure your spot.

To book your place: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/ongoing-professional-development/therapeutic-relationship-is-a-two-way-street-with-dr-helena-hargaden-47/?_gl=1*5bqncc*_up*MQ..*_ga*NzE4NzE0MzQ0LjE3MjA1MjIxNjg.*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMDUyMjE2OC4xLjAuMTcyMDUyMjE2OC4wLjAuMA..

We're over the moon to share some fantastic news with you all today! After a successful viva examination yesterday morning, we're thrilled to announce that Kieran Macfeely has met all the requirements to become a Level 6 NCPS-Accredited Counsellor with a Connexus Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling.

During his assessment, under the expert eyes of Susanna Scutt, CTA (P), and Louise Herbert, CTA (P), Kieran displayed his deep understanding, unique approach, and inspiring aspirations in the field of psychotherapeutic counselling. Susanna and Louise were truly impressed by his dedication and vision for the future.

Let's all join in giving Kieran a big round of applause and heartfelt congratulations! We're incredibly proud of his achievement and can’t wait to see the positive impact he’ll continue to make in the lives of those he supports.

From all of us at Connexus Institute, huge congratulations, Kieran! Here’s to your future success and the amazing journey ahead!

Develop your career with our Diploma in Supervision this Autumn!

Are you ready to advance as a counsellor or psychotherapist? Join Connexus Institute’s highly-rated Diploma in Supervision course, designed for advanced practitioners.

Course Details:
- Start Date: 19th October 2024
- Duration: Six weekends over six months
- Cost: £2,400 (inclusive of VAT)
- Mode: In-room in Hove

Why join this course?
- Interactive Learning: Small, dynamic groups exploring every aspect of supervision.
- Expert Instructors: Led by Patrick Brook and Anita Webster.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Includes ethics, risk assessment, creative supervision, and more.
- Practical Experience: 40 hours of supervised practice with feedback.

Who should join?
Ideal for counsellors, psychotherapists, and helping professionals ready for supervisory roles.
Benefits:
- Accreditation: Meets BACP and UKCP standards.
- Professional Growth: Develop reflective supervision styles and enhance skills.
- Networking: Build a supportive network of peers.

On completion, you will receive a Connexus Institute Diploma in Supervision with 120 hours of CPD and be ready to practice as a supervisor. Apply now to take your career to the next level!
For more information, visit our website: https://www.connexusinstitute.com/our-courses/diploma-in-supervision-19/?_gl=1*s5k4gk*_up*MQ..*_ga*MTU3NDQ1NDc2MS4xNzIwNDQ5NzI0*_ga_9YD67KP2XW*MTcyMDQ0OTcyNC4xLjEuMTcyMDQ1MDYzMy4wLjAuMA.. or contact us.

A few lovely end of year photos - congratulations to our 2nd-year groups for completing their training year and in such style - looking forward to seeing you all in September! Loving the seaside vibe - Huge thanks to Holly Patrick and Lisa Bedford-Cooper for their dedication and professionalism. Special thanks also to Nancy Dalton and a team of amazing skills tutors who weren't here this weekend but who integrated this part of our core curriculum so we'll this year!

What an incredible final weekend with our 2nd-year counselling and psychotherapy cohorts at Connexus Institute in Hove!

Lisa is thrilled with this gorgeous creative card from her amazing students. Both Lisa and Holly have thoroughly enjoyed being the core tutors for such a dedicated and inspiring group. We are immensely thankful to all the skills tutors who have come on board to help make this journey a success.

Stay tuned as we will be posting more photos soon, and we look forward to their continuing journeys.