This is an opportunity for folks in the ISTDP Health Learning Community to meet-up and connect in person ahead of the formal conference on the Friday. We’ll be kicking things off with a walk on the quay, perfect for catching up with old friends and welcoming new faces into the group, followed by a drinks reception together and a delicious evening meal.

This year, we’ll be exploring the powerful theme of “Facilitating a Breakthrough into the Unconscious in ISTDP”. Expect illuminating presentations and rich audiovisual case material demonstrating how the visceral experience of complex, previously avoided feelings can unlock the unconscious and open the door to deep therapeutic change.

Our guest speaker, Dr Patricia Coughlin, is a leading international expert in Intensive Short-term Dynamic Psychotherapy. With more than four decades of clinical experience, she has played a major role in advancing the theory, practice, and teaching of ISTDP worldwide. Dr Coughlin is renowned for her clarity, technical precision, and deeply thoughtful clinical work.

Reed Hall is a historic Italianate mansion set within beautiful gardens on the University of Exeter’s Streatham Campus. Combining period charm with modern facilities, offering an elegant and peaceful setting for our conference.

Explore options for accommodation in Exeter. Whether you want a home from home to make a short holiday of your trip to Devon or a budget friendly option for a flying visit there are plenty of local options to choose from.

Exeter has excellent transport links. Direct trains from London Paddington reach Exeter St Davids in around two hours, with additional services from London Waterloo, Birmingham, Bristol, and the North. National Express and Megabus provide coach services from major cities. By road, Exeter is well-connected via the M5, A30, and A38.