Between reality and possibility: A hermeneutic phenomenological exploration of imagination in the therapy room
While structured imaginative approaches, such as dramatherapy, role-play, and sandtray therapy, are recognised for supporting psychological change, less is known about how imaginative moments occur spontaneously within the therapy room.
This qualitative study aims to explore how spontaneous imagination (e.g unexpected mental imagery, shared metaphor, or daydreams / waking dreams) arises from the perspective of qualified therapists, examining how these moments are experienced relationally and how they influence the therapeutic process.
As part of my MSc in Psychotherapy Studies at Bishop Auckland College, I am inviting practicing therapists to explore these intriguing moments. This qualitative study uses Hermeneutic Phenomenology explores the therapists lived experiences of spontaneous imagination, recognising that meaning emerges through shared relational dynamics.
What Participation Involves
I am seeking 4 qualified therapists/counsellors to participate in an in-depth, semi-structured hermeneutic conversation lasting up to 90 minutes.
• Interviews will take place either in person, in a confidential space depending on locality (South Cumbria), or online via Microsoft Teams.
• Conversations will be recorded via Microsoft Teams and subsequently transcribed.
• Participation is entirely voluntary. You may withdraw from the study up to 14 days post-interview before data analysis begins.
Eligibility Criteria
To take part, you must be:
1. A qualified therapist or counsellor.
2. A registered member of a recognized professional body (e.g., BACP, UKCP, NCPS).
3. Have experience of spontaneous imaginative moments arising in your clinical practice.
Therapists of all genders, ages, ethnicities, practice settings, and therapeutic modalities are warmly welcomed to support a rich and diverse understanding of this phenomenon.
Ethical Approval, Confidentiality & Data Protection
This study has received full ethical approval from Bishop Auckland College (Ethics Reference: BAC2026/213308/01 ).
• Pseudonyms will be assigned, and all identifying details will be removed during transcription.
• Data Security: All audio recordings, transcripts, and consent forms will be stored on password-protected, secure servers at Bishop Auckland College in strict compliance with UK GDPR and the Data Protection Act (2018).
• Data Retention: All digital data will be permanently deleted following academic assessment (expected July 2027). Findings will be used strictly for academic assessment purposes.
Prior to taking part, you will receive a detailed Participant Information Sheet and Consent Form outlining all procedures, potential risks, and data handling protocols.
How to Register Your Interest
If you meet the criteria and would like to contribute to this research, or if you have any questions, please contact the Principal Researcher:
• Principal Researcher: Sarah Goss (SM±«ÓãÊÓƵ/ Trainee Psychotherapist)
Email: 213308@student.bacoll.ac.uk
• Research Supervisor: Lindsey Moses, Bishop Auckland College
Email: Lindsey.moses@bacoll.ac.uk
You can view the advert here and the participant information sheet here.