Therapists' experiences of personal therapy: A descriptive phenomenological study

Aim: To consider therapists' descriptive accounts of their experiences of personal therapy. Method: The methodology employed was qualitative, using data obtained from individual semi‐structured interviews. Ten Spanish psychotherapists were interviewed about their experiences of personal therapy. Findings: In a systematic thematic analysis of the interview transcripts, six emergent themes were identified: different approaches to personal therapy; time in therapy; approach to choosing personal therapist; experiences of personal therapy; contribution of personal therapy to therapists' professional development, and contribution of personal therapy to therapists' affective development. These findings are consistent with previous research. Conclusion : The findings indicated that participants' experiences of personal therapy were positive. Alternative approaches for personal development are considered.