Personal development is a fundamental component of integrative psychotherapy training. Research indicates that a psychotherapist’s level of personal development is directly correlated with the effectiveness of psychotherapy. Without a deep understanding of ourselves or adequate resolution of our own psychological challenges, we risk projecting our emotions and personal thought patterns onto our clients or patients. One of the greatest challenges for a beginner psychotherapist is to practice active and empathetic listening while clarifying the client’s issues without significant countertransferential interference.
To qualify as an integrative psychotherapist, you must complete at least 25 hours of individual therapy with a psychotherapist of your choice and attend 12 modules of group personal development or therapy.