ABSTRACT Aim This study aimed to explore how person‐centred counselling training influences the personal relationships of trainee therapists, with particular attention to the relational impact of integrating core therapeutic principles into everyday life. Method A qualitative design was employed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) within a constructivist framework. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with five graduates (four female, one male) from a UK‐based postgraduate counselling programme, all of whom were in long‐term relationships. The analysis focused on participants' lived experiences of relational change during and following training. Findings The findings indicate that counselling training is associated with significant personal and relational shifts. Participants reported increased self‐awareness, emotional openness and a re‐evaluation of interpersonal dynamics. While many experienced enhanced communication and deeper relational engagement, challenges also emerged, including partner resistance, unmet expectations and processes of identity renegotiation. Three superordinate themes were identified: (1) Personal Transformation and Relational Shifts, (2) Applying Counselling Skills Beyond the Therapy Room and (3) Expectations of Partner Change. Conclusion Person‐centred counselling training extends beyond professional skill development, profoundly shaping trainees' personal relationships. Although the process fosters authenticity and emotional resilience, it may also disrupt established relational patterns. These findings highlight the need for training programmes to better prepare trainees for the interpersonal consequences of personal development. Enhanced support structures, including supervision and personal therapy, are recommended to facilitate trainees' navigation of these changes.
Leah Athanassopoulos (2026) studied this question.