Doctorate of Counselling Psychology DCounsPsy

he 3-year, full-time programme places an emphasis on both cognitive-behavioural and humanistic approaches to the development of counselling and psychotherapy skills. The programme includes training in psychological assessment; psychotherapeutic interventions over the lifespan; clinical research methods; ethics and professional practice; a doctoral research dissertation; and requires a minimum of 450 hours of placement in clinical settings.

Students also undertake modules that develop the professional skills required of leaders and supervisors, and for working in diverse, multi-disciplinary teams.

Qualifications

To be eligible for entry to the programme, students will normally have:

• A good honours degree which confers the Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC)* with the British Psychological Society (BPS) or other Undergraduate degree with relevant conversion course.
• This would normally be a minimum of 2:1 in Psychology; applicants with a lower degree but supplemented by additional Postgraduate study or relevant experience may also be considered.

*Please check the BPS website (under the list of accredited programmes) to check if your undergraduate degree confers GBC.

Additional requirements 

In addition to the above you will need to: 

• Provide two references and a personal statement (maximum 1,000 words) along with your application. 
• Obtain a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure.
• Demonstrate a commitment to undertake personal therapy and clinical supervision. 

Interview 

• Shortlisted applicants are required to attend interviews in either May or June each year.

Admission to the programme is competitive, therefore the selection process strives to consider multiple aspects and qualities of individuals, be inclusive and accessible.

Counselling Psychologists use psychological theory and research in therapeutic work to help clients with a range of mental health issues and distress. Clients can include children, adolescents, adults, families, couples and groups. Counselling Psychologists work across a diversity of health and social care environments (e.g., NHS, outpatient and inpatient units, community organisations, educational institutions, forensic settings), and in independent practice.