Philip Rose

I’ve worked for two LGBTQIA+ organisations: Switchboard in the 1980s and 1990s and, more recently, ELOP (East London Out Project) as part of my training. Whilst at Switchboard, I supported the launch of the first government AIDS and HIV information campaign by working on a temporary helpline; this led to a permanent role as an advisor for the National AIDS Helpline.

My training to become a therapist was in two parts: broadly integrative in the first and then choosing to specialise in existential psychotherapy in the second. I chose the existential training pathway because it resonated strongly with my lived experiences and worldview.

During my training, in combination with my role as a counsellor at ELOP, I worked at the City and East London Bereavement Service, a specialist low-cost community counselling service and The Listening Place, a face-to-face support service for people who feel that life is no longer worth living.

Prior to my training at Regent’s University, I completed courses ranging from the psychodynamics of personal relationships through the Albany Trust to broader counselling skills training provided by City Lit.

Informed by philosophers and writers who’ve explored what it means to be human, existential therapy is an approach which encourages people to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery by delving into the profound depths of their lived experiences. Emphasising responsibility and authenticity, the approach helps people confront the challenges, dilemmas and uncertainties they face whilst making sense of the givens of existence: anxiety, death, freedom, isolation and meaninglessness.

The approach considers emotional and psychological challenges as inner conflicts that arise when people confront the complex realities of our shared humanity. Without imposing beliefs or values, existential therapists adopt an open, receptive attitude of inquiry and wonderment, collaborating with their clients as they confront their struggles and concerns.

My approach to therapy is collaborative, non-judgmental, and grounded in an attitude of curiosity and wonder. I nurture therapeutic relationships with people based on trust and honesty. As a therapist, I’m committed to supporting people’s emotional and personal growth, empowering them to uncover their unique perspectives and strengths as they confront existential dilemmas and embrace life's uncertainties with greater purpose and resilience.

Before becoming a therapist, I worked in the film and entertainment industry, managing businesses, large teams and commercial client relationships. People have always been my passion.