Marjon Counselling Research Conference 2026

About this event

Join us for a dynamic and thought-provoking counselling conference that brings together cutting-edge research, lived experience, and creative practice from Marjon and beyond. 

From a powerful keynote exploring the transformative potential of paradox in therapy, to innovative studies on self-care, trauma integration, and inclusive practice, this event offers rich insights into the evolving landscape of counselling. Engage with real-world clinical challenges, discover embodied and creative approaches such as sand tray and burlesque, and explore pressing social issues impacting client wellbeing today. Whether you are a trainee or experienced practitioner, this conference promises to inspire, challenge, and deepen your therapeutic practice in meaningful and unexpected ways.

Conference Programme

9:00 – Arrival, registration & networking

9:30 – Welcome & introduction

9:40 – The Power of Paradox (Juliana Hopkins)

Explore the dynamic tensions at the heart of person-centred practice—where autonomy meets influence and acceptance meets change. Through case material and storytelling, discover how embracing paradox can deepen relationships and energise your therapeutic work.

10:40 – Break

11:00 – Sandscapes of Care (Carla Chalk)

A creative exploration of trainee counsellors’ self-care using sand tray and narrative analysis—revealing rich, embodied insights beyond words.

11:30 – Video games in counselling - under utilised potential? (Cai Dare)

A discussion around therapeutic uses for video games, considering the perceptions of gamers and counsellors to explore whether there is a need for further research into novel and contemporary methods of counselling practice

12:00 - Language Differences and Therapeutic Alliance: Experiences of Multilingual Clients in Therapy (Oliwia Stefanowska)

Explore multilingual clients’ experiences of therapy in a second language, revealing how language can shape identity, emotional expression, and relational connection within the therapeutic alliance.

12:30– Lunch break

(Feel free to use campus outlets or bring lunch to share in our social space in 1.35a and b )

1:30 –  Embodiment & Empowerment Through Burlesque (Laura Mac)

A relational exploration of how burlesque can foster self-acceptance, transformation, and connection to the body.

2:30 - Break

3:00 – Transphobia, Politics & Wellbeing (Amber Banner)

Examining the mental health impact of rising transphobia in UK politics—and how counselling can respond with inclusive, affirming practice.

3:30 – Adolescent Mental Health in Alternative Settings (Bekka Wormall)

Hear young people’s voices in this compelling study of wellbeing, belonging, and relational safety—offering fresh insights for counselling practice.

4:00 – Healing Trauma Through Self-Integration (Lucas McAlonan)

An intimate autoethnographic account of working with childhood abandonment trauma, including medicinal cannabis-assisted integration—challenging stigma and opening new perspectives on healing.

4:30 pm Closing remarks & Q&A

This is a conference for learning, for sharing and for meeting each other in a dynamic learning space. 

We look forward to warmly welcoming you to the Health & Wellbeing Hub at Plymouth Marjon University.

Please book your place by Friday 5 June

For any queries please email events@marjon.ac.uk

Please note: Paid parking is available on site. Payment must be made on arrival and cannot be backdated. Payment is made via the RingGo app or by phoning 0203 0460010. If you have any difficulty then please visit the Welcome Desk for assistance.