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Introduction
The interdisciplinary approach which underpins this programme offers trainee Counselling practitioners a fusion of new and traditional approaches, backed by research.
The foundation of this programme draws on the work of Carl Rogers and the therapeutic relationship; the focusing work of Eugene Gendlin, and the dialogic and experiential work of the Gestalt tradition. From this, the contemporary approach of Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) opens up greater access of human emotion, as it engages with a close interest in the growing understanding of neuroscience and how emotions function differently from cognition in the brain.
The theory will underpin the application to practice through a therapeutic placement comprising of 100 clinically supervised practice hours. In addition, students will undertake a minimum of 25 hours of personal therapy which will support and strengthen both personal and professional development.
The programme will be taught in small groups so that the students have a significant opportunity to engage in the practice and development of their therapeutic competence. In addition, students will be taught through formal lecture and seminar groups where there will be an opportunity to discuss with each other and the tutors, the rich, diverse and often complex issues addressed in the programme.
Psychotherapeutic Practice: Humanistic (MA) is accredited by the National Counselling Society (NCS) and, subject to the Terms & Conditions, is a route onto a national register of counsellors which is accredited by the Professional Standards Authority (PSA).
Why choose this course?
1. Contribute to the health and wellbeing of others
2. Grow in self-knowledge and in understanding what it is to be human
3. Contribute to knowledge in the field through a research dissertation
4. Learn how to work at relational depth
5. Prepare for a career as a practising psychotherapist,
Overview
The Psychotherapeutic Practice: Humanistic (MA) is a three-year programme set at Level 7. However, there is an expectation of incremental development in theoretical knowledge, personal and professional development and practice competence as the student progresses through the programme. The modules have been designed to support this development of competency. The MA is suitable for students with no clinical practice experience.
The structure will ensure that students are highly trained practitioners that can work with a range of mental disorders and have the skills and knowledge to be classed as qualified psychotherapists.
This programme utilises both large classroom spaces as well as small counselling rooms to ensure ethical and confidential provision for practice. Sessions can be recorded for training purposes.
Students are required to work within local agencies to gain their 100 hours of clinically supervised practice. This can include work within symptom specific organisations such as those offering drug and alcohol rehabilitation; bereavement Counselling and women’s issues. Also, our students have completed placements within the NHS, educational settings and within social services.
Modules
There are five modules for this programme; however, students also need to complete 100 hours of therapeutic practice in placement, monthly supervision and 25 hours of personal therapy.
Each module incorporates theory, skills and personal reflection as standard.
Year 1 (PG Cert, PG Dip & MA)
Framing Therapeutic Practice (30 credits; core)
This module explores the ethical frame of practice and explores the assumptions that are made about the nature and development of human beings from a Humanistic approach.
Students will reflect on self as they engage with therapeutic practice, developing appropriate self-support and self-care.
Therapy and Context (30 credits; core)
Within this module, students will contextualise therapeutic practice within the wider mental health context, including multi-disciplinary working and the role and impact of NICE on mental health provision.
Students will also begin to engage with Emotion-Focused Therapy and exploring the process of change.
Year 2 (PG Dip & MA)
Professional Practice and Therapist Competencies (30 credits; core)
This module explores the concept of professionalism to practice, including obligations and responsibilities within professionalism. Within this module, students will also look at specific presenting problems or issues developing professional knowledge through an evidence-based paradigm.
Research Methods and Practice (30 credits; core)
This module enables students to engage in research practices, consolidate professional practice and develop a specialism in practice through a practical understanding of empirical research skills which can be communicated to the wider field.
Year 3 (MA)
Psychotherapy and Counselling Dissertation (60 credits; core)
Students will engage in a piece of self-directed research. Students can engage with a piece of qualitative/quantitative/mixed methods of research.
Entry Criteria
A good standard undergraduate degree in a compatible subject in the Humanities or Social Sciences.
An introductory skills course: evidence of what was covered and at what level will need to be produced at interview.
Places for the course are offered subject to interview. Applicants for the programme will be given an opportunity to come and talk to the lecturers so that you can assess whether this is the course for you and we can also make that assessment.
ENTRY REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Home Office Share Code
For EU students only.
IF no Qualification
Please provide CV with at least 2 years of work experience, and employee reference letter.
Assessment
ASSESSMENT METHODS
1. INTERNAL ENGLISH TEST if you don't have an English accredited certificate
2. Academic Interview
Assessment
This programme has a range of assessment strategies, including presentations, written assessment and skills practice recordings.
Career Opportunities
Successful completion of this programme will enable students to practice as fully qualified therapists. Typical pathways have included work within
• Social Care
• The Prison Service
• Emergency Services
• Charitable organisations and paid work within the voluntary sector
• Primary care
• Educational roles
• Trainers
• Lecturers
• Social Researchers.
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