Understanding occupational histories and how they influence a psychoanalytic child psychotherapist’s experience of their work: An Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis

This study explores how Child and Adolescent Psychoanalytic Psychotherapists (CAPPTs) experience the influence of their previous occupations on their current work. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA), it investigates how diverse professional backgrounds shape their identity, skills and therapeutic approach. Addressing a gap in the literature, it highlights the significance of prior occupations—an overlooked topic in CAPPT training and practice. Participants were selected based on their former roles and current status as CAPPTs, with semi-structured interviews used to elicit personal narratives. The study focuses on the lived experiences of four CAPPTs, analysing how their earlier careers inform their practice and professional development. Analysis of interview transcripts and occupational histories generated five themes: The Seedlings, The Transformation Process, Integration and Conceptualisation of One’s Approach, Relationships and Interactions Then and Now, and Learning from Occupational Experiences to Empathise with One’s Patient. Participants reported a sense of identity disintegration and reintegration, facilitating a deeper understanding of self and patient. The findings underscore the value of prior experience in shaping therapeutic work with children, young people and families, as well as associated tasks such as teaching, managing, research, and supervision. The study illustrates a cultivated sense of ownership and belonging in these CAPPTs and offers insights for recruitment, training, and reflective practice—suggesting that engaging with one’s occupational history can enrich the development of child psychotherapists.