This article reports on three key findings of pluralistic research into psychotherapists' experience of continuing professional development (CPD). A qualitative enquiry with five therapists utilising Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, was supplemented with a questionnaire completed by an additional 41 therapists and a review of the CPD requirements of the leading professional bodies. This research indicates that therapists are dedicated to self-development but the nature of their development is emergent rather than planned; and life experiences, learning from clients and acceptance in the professional community are valued above more traditional concepts of CPD.