​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 HOUSES 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 runs a STUDY PROGRAMME in psychotherapy. The one-year introductory course provides an overview of our way of working and reflects the importance we attach to philosophy. The one-year experiential course and the one-year diploma both explore the idea of community. The psychoanalytic psychotherapy 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.

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​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.

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

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

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INTRODUCTORY COURSE IN PHILOSOPHY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

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EXPERIENTIAL COURSE IN COMMUNITY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

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  DIPLOMA IN COMMUNITY AND PSYCHOTHERAPY

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    TRAINING IN PSYCHOANALYTIC PSYCHOTHERAPY

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THE PHILADELPHIA ASSOCIATION was founded in 1965 by R. D. Laing and colleagues in orderto 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.

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ACTIVITIES

PHILOSOPHY

STUDY PROGRAMME