Update: Fundraising and Solidarity Event Supporting Therapists Challenging Racism at Metanoia Institute

The Psychotherapy and Counselling Union (PCU) continues to stand in solidarity with the five former staff members of the Metanoia Institute.

Dr Eiman Hussein, Dr Maya Mukamel, Dr Malgorzata Milewicz, Dr Jane Hunt, and Cathy Lasher have brought claims of constructive dismissal, whistleblowing, and victimisation to the Employment Tribunal.

These five psychological therapists, researchers, and trainers raised serious concerns about racial dynamics and harmful practices affecting both students and staff of colour during their time at Metanoia. Despite their efforts to address these issues internally, they were met with disappointing and dismissive responses, leading to what they describe as an untenable working environment.

Their ongoing legal action seeks not only accountability but also lasting structural change within psychotherapy training.

Recent Updates

• The group is now officially supported by BARAC UK (Black Activists Rising Against Cuts), an organisation with such a strong track record of campaigning for racial and social justice.
• The Relational School (TRS) will host an online fundraising and solidarity event on Monday 24 November, offering space to reflect on the broader implications of racism within psychotherapy training and to explore ways to create lasting cultural change within the field.
• Donations have now reached £10,000. The next fundraising target is £60,000, which needs to be raised by 1st December 2025.

Event Details

🗓️ Event: Fundraising and Solidarity Event – “Spat Out”: A Conversation About Institutional Racism in the Psychotherapy Field. A gathering with the five claimants in the legal case against Metanoia Institute.

🕓 Date & Time: Monday 24 November, 19:30 – 21:00

📍Location: Online

🌐 Tickets and more details.

How You Can Help

This case highlights the urgent need for accountability, transparency, and anti-racist reform within psychotherapy and counselling training institutions.

You can support this vital work by:

• Donating to the GoFundMe campaign to help cover legal costs
• Sharing the campaign within your networks
• Attending the online event on 24 November
• Raising awareness about the ongoing fight for equity in psychotherapy training

PCU’s Commitment

PCU is proud to support this campaign alongside BARAC UK. We continue to advocate for therapists who encounter discrimination, exploitation, or institutional injustice in their workplaces and training organisations.

Join PCU.