Psychotherapist Emma Foley's Masters by Research unveils the power of storytelling for parents of children with learning disabilities in mainstream education

Research question

My research, titled Putting Together Pieces of a Puzzle explores the lived experiences of parent carers of children with learning disabilities in mainstream education. It examines the impact of fear, and how storytelling helps build understanding and appreciation.

Findings

I discovered that the mental health and wellbeing of parent carers can be negatively impacted by their relationships with professionals, resulting in mistrust and fear. Parent carers often fear not being heard when advocating for their children, being failed by professionals, and that research won't lead to improved services. My study found that storytelling can help build trust, mutual respect, and understanding, thereby reducing psychological distress.

Impact

I shared my research with the Down Syndrome Association UK and have been invited to write a blog for the Special Educational Needs Policy Research forum and the Special Needs Jungle website, including policy recommendations and engaging parents and professionals. I qualified as a psychotherapist with a BA (Hons) from USW in 2021 and started a private practice working with individuals with learning disabilities and their carers. My Masters by Research aimed to lay the groundwork for further studies in psychotherapy and learning disabilities. Currently, I'm working on a case study to inform evidence-based psychotherapy practice.

Student experience

Studying at USW felt comfortable as I had already completed my undergraduate degree there. The support and belief in my research from USW were crucial. Despite occasional feelings of isolation during my MA, the Graduate School encouraged PGR students to participate in various events. I presented my early-stage research at an online conference and won the Images of Research competition at the Postgraduate Research Showcase last year, pushing myself out of my comfort zone.

What’s next

Professionally, my research degree allows me to share my research to inform policy and psychotherapy practice, helping individuals with learning disabilities receive appropriate therapeutic support.

Personally, I'm proud of my achievements and the additional qualifications. Moving forward, I plan to continue my work as a psychotherapist, write blogs and case studies, and perhaps fulfil my ambition of becoming a published author.