The Philadelphia Association | psychotherapy, philosophy, community

The PA offers THERAPY to individuals, couples and groups. Therapy opens up a space for thinking that is helpful when things go wrong in our lives. The therapeutic relationship unfolds new, creative and liberating perspectives on difficulties outside.

We run two COMMUNITY HOUSEHOLDS in London. People who are suffering and need space away from the pressures and demands of modern day life can live with others in these houses for extended periods, using the time spent with each other to reflect on their experiences. More fulfilling lives become possible as a consequence.

The PA offers a STUDY PROGRAMME in psychotherapy. The one-year IINTRODUCTORY COURSE provides an overview of our way of working and reflects the importance we attach to philosophy. The EXPERIENTIAL and DIPLOMA courses both explore the possibilities of community and psychotherapy. The PSYCHOANALYTIC PSYCHOTHRAPY TRAINING encourages independent thinking In the tradition of Laing's objections to the psychiatry of his time, we foster a sceptical view of established institutions and conventional theories.

We organise EVENTS, including discussions and film screenings, and publish a newsletter.

The PA favours a creative approach to therapy that involves being ready to question the social norms that often contribute to someone's unhappiness.

An engagement with philosophy and other fields, including anthropology, spirituality and the practice of art, is a fundamental part of our approach. So is a belief in the value of ordinary ways of living and being together. Community and inclusive conversation have the power to alleviate what disturbs people.

Once conversation begins, paths open up that lead away from isolation and despair towards dignity and greater freedom.

THE PHILADELPHIA ASSOCIATION was founded in 1965 by R. D. Laing and colleagues in order to challenge established ways of thinking about and treating mental distress. For more than fifty years we have offered an open-minded alternative approach to psychotherapy that is unique in Britain.

ACTIVITIES

PHILOSOPHY

COVID-19

The work of the community houses continues as does the training, study programme and the affordable therapy service.

At this time all therapy consultations are being conducted remotely, online or by phone.

INTRODUCTORY COURSE IN PHILOSOPHY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

EXPERIENTIAL COURSE IN COMMUNITY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

DIPLOMA IN COMMUNITY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

TRAINING IN PSYCHOANALYTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY

NEWS AND EVENTS

August 2020 PA Newsletter

PA COMMUNITIES

For over fifty years the PA communities have provided a unique and increasingly rare space from the endless pressures and expectations of modern life. We currently have spaces in both houses.

For further information please contact or apply through our online form here

You will be put in touch with a house therapist who can say more about the ethos of the communities and go through the process of application with you.

POEMS - SHARED AND READ

Jan 22 2021

This is a space to think and talk about the place of poetry in our lives and the poems that move us.

Facilitated by Emma Stroker

FRIDAY EVENTS 7 - 8.30pm

The Philadelphia Association is hosting a series of events, creating a space to meet during this period of hardship and social restrictions. The programme includes discussions, workshops and a weekly Drop-In.

If you are interested in attending any of the events, please contact the who will send you the link.

All events are free, online, Zoom 🌈

See HERE for details