A group of psychiatric nurses (N = 15) rated the impact of participation in a one year post-experience training course in behavioural psychotherapy on their personal/family life; professional practice; and professional relationships. Levels of stress associated with different phases of the course were also monitored.
Results indicated that the main stresses were associated with re-adjustment of family life over the period of the course and ensuring stability of training placements at the outset of the course. The course fulfilled participants' expectations with regard to improving their clinical practice, and confirmed their view that relationships with psychiatrist colleagues would be unaffected by their participation on the course. Impact on relationships with nurse colleagues was more positive than had been anticipated during the period of the course.
