As we launch the 5^th Anniversary issue of Inside Out, we feel it would be appropriate to look back on our aims as we began five years ago, and in doing that, to assess the continuing relevance of those aims and the degree of success we have had in fulfilling them. A brief quote from that first editorial reminds us of those aspirations. Topics such as “ Creative Therapies, Working with Cross-Cultural Clients, Childhood and Adolescent Issues and Disorders of the Celtic Tiger” were among those mooted for inclusion in our publications. We also noted the “ increasing alliance of psychotherapy training bodies with academic institutions”. Most important of all, the editorial board mentioned “diversity, difference” and invited “ open, honest discussion” with a view to facilitating understanding and acceptance of our many differing modalities and indeed philosophies.

It is up to you our readers to decide to what degree “Inside Out” has lived up to these ambitions.

What is apparent is that now, in a period of change, realignment and transition it is more necessary than ever to have a forum in which all voices are welcomed and are heard equally. Publication may seem rather daunting to some members, but we want and need to hear the voices of our members as we negotiate the present currents of change. As Humanistic, Integrative psychotherapists we value transparency and dialogue. Without these, there is a constant danger that a culture of silence can develop, and in silence secrecy can thrive.

This issue, and indeed some articles in the last one, considers aspects of the development and future of our profession. The way we in IAHIP promote ourselves, particularly in the media, is one case in point. Our place within the body of European psychotherapy and the core values we wish to carry with us there, whatever alignments we espouse, are also central to much of the present debate within the profession. It is important for all of us to put forward our opinions on these matters, without reserve.

In reflecting on the courage of those who voice even the not-so-comfortable truths in these discussions, we felt a reference to mythic courage would not go amiss: Prometheus, as he was being tortured by Zeus for his theft of fire from the gods, was determined not to be beaten down. “I care less than nothing for Zeus – let him do as he likes”. We do well to emulate him.