Lead Researcher: Beth Phelps, Psychotherapeutic Counsellor MBACP, MSc candidate in Contemporary Person-centred Psychotherapy, The Metanoia Institute

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Research question:

How do person-centred psychotherapists experience their menstrual cycle in relation to their client work?​​

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Aim of the study

This study explores how psychotherapists experience their menstrual cycle in relation to client work, employing a hermeneutic phenomenological approach. While existing research considers the client's menstrual cycle within psychotherapy, no studies have examined the therapist’s. Findings may encourage greater awareness of how therapists' menstrual experiences shape therapeutic work, and have implications for clinical practice and training. Given the absence of literature, this study seeks to establish a foundation for future doctoral research.

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Who I'm looking for

I am seeking 3 participants of any gender who meet the following criteria:

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• are qualified in person-centred psychotherapy/counselling.

• are currently practicing with clients.

• are experiencing a 'natural' menstrual cycle (e.g. not using hormonal contraceptives or undergoing hormone therapy)*. 

• are not pregnant and have no diagnosed reproductive health condition affecting menstruation (e.g. endometriosis, PCOS)*.

• have an existing awareness of their menstrual cycle (e.g. tracking, menstrual awareness practice).

• can access personal therapy if needed to support wellbeing during/after participation.

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*While menstrual diversity is recognised, this MSc study requires a homogenous sample to ensure feasibility and depth. Broader experiences may be examined in future research studies.

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What’s involved

• Interview: A one-to-one, online video interview lasting 60 minutes (or up to 75 minutes if required for accessibility)

• Optional debrief: 20-minute follow-up within 2 weeks after the interview

Ethics & confidentiality

• Study approved by the Metanoia Research Ethics Committee

• Conducted in line with UKCP and BACP ethical guidelines for research

• Data anonymised and stored securely in accordance with GDPR and the Data Protection Regulations for Social Research (2020)​​​

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Interested?

More information can be found in this participant information letter.

To register your interest in being a participant please use the participant interest form below, or email research@bethphelps.co.uk
If selected, you will be invited to a short screening call to confirm suitability. All enquiries will receive a response, regardless of outcome. Interviews will be scheduled for November 2025.

This research study is also on the BACP notice board.