PHILOSOPHY
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.
Ther are two PA therapeutic houses in North 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 Philadelphia Association (PA) Study Programme includes the Introductory Course in Philosophy and Psychotherapy, an online Introductory Course in Community, Philosophy and Psychotherapy, Diploma Course in Community and Psychotherapy and a Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy training.
The PA is a member of the Council for Psychoanalysis and Jungian Analysis College (CPJA) of the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
We organise events including discussions, film screenings and publish a newsletter.
ACTIVITIES
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 responding to distress. For more than fifty years we have offered an open-minded alternative approach to psychotherapy that is unique in Britain.
PA NOTICE BOARD
PA STUDY PROGRAMME
There are still places on the PA Diploma in Community & Psychotherapy course beginning October 2026.
For further information see HERE
PA COMMUNITY HOUSEHOLDS
see HERE for further information
There are current Vacancies in our houses
For further information contact Sophia Raja at sophia@philadelphia-association.org.uk
The Arts in Community, Philosophy and Psychotherapy Starting January 2027 in Hampstead, NW3
Coordinators - Amy Ison & Andrew Royle
A new course from the PA is welcoming applicants. You may be completely new to Psychotherapy and the Arts or you may have experience or training in the field. Either way you are welcome to apply to join us on what promises to be a creatively rich journey, working with others in a therapeutic, pedagogical and collaborative process.
This is a stand alone certificate/CPD course.
If you are interested in applying email Amy Ison at amyappagroup@gmail.com
or Andrew Royle royley9@yahoo.co.uk for further details.
