Regent’s University London was honoured to welcome Professor Brett Kahr as a Visiting Professor. A renowned psychotherapist, academic, and author, Kahr has spent over 45 years in mental health, starting at just 16 years of age. Having taught at Regent’s in the 1990s and 2000s, he called his return ‘an honour.’
The power of psychotherapy
Professor Kahr’s talk explored the vital role of psychotherapy in transforming lives, stating, ‘I can’t think of any profession more humane, kindly, and lifesaving than psychotherapy’. He highlighted how therapists provide a space for individuals who, on the surface, may appear to have everything but deeply struggle within. ‘We have the capacity to not only improve lives but save lives’, he told the audience, urging them to take pride in their profession.
A historical perspective on mental health treatment
Placing psychotherapy within a broader historical context, Kahr reflected on how far the field has come. From brutal and invasive methods such as trephination and castration, treatment for mental health has evolved dramatically. The turning point, Kahr noted, came in 1896 when Sigmund Freud introduced psychoanalysis, pioneering the concept of the ‘talking cure’ and revolutionising the therapist-patient relationship.
A shifting cultural landscape
Kahr emphasised the cultural shift in attitudes towards therapy. ‘In the 1960s, therapy was considered shameful. Now, public figures like Prince Harry, Brad Pitt, Pope Francis, and Michelle Obama openly discussing their experiences with therapy have further cemented its legitimacy and importance.
Regent’s role in shaping the profession
Kahr praised Regent’s pioneering role in psychotherapy education, stating it ‘was the first academic institution to offer a Master’s and a Doctorate in psychotherapy, blending academic rigour with clinical expertise’. The University helped establish psychotherapy as a respected and accountable profession, ensuring the highest standards in teaching and practice.
The challenges and responsibilities of a psychotherapist
Kahr candidly discussed the emotional toll of working in the profession stating ‘as we become more skilled, the more our patients reveal to us’. He also noted the physical impact of the sedentary nature of psychotherapy, urging practitioners to develop skills beyond the consulting room - such as public speaking, writing, and advocacy - to amplify their voices and influence policy.
The future of mental health
When asked about the future of psychotherapy, Kahr expressed hope in the growing size and engagement of training cohorts, seeing this as evidence that society is becoming more humane. However, he also highlighted the need for greater unity among accrediting bodies and better integration across the profession.
Ending on an inspiring note, he encouraged the next generation of psychotherapists to embrace their role in shaping the mental health landscape. ‘We have the potential to impact the country. Our profession may be quiet, but we must ensure it is heard’.
Keep an eye out for future Visiting Professorship and Distinguished Speaker Series on our Events page – or catch up with previous events.