The course is structured with modules that deliver professional training components and that broaden and deepen your understanding of counselling-related issues. You will develop a wide range of professional skills, including communication, reflective practice and self awareness, research skills, stress management and cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT).
In the first year of your degree you will develop your theoretical understanding of counselling and psychotherapy and enhance key skills whilst working with your fellow students.
You will then further develop your understanding and skills under supervision by undertaking a placement at an organisation, which could include community health centres, charitable or voluntary organisations, GP surgeries or NHS services. Your second year is focused on preparing you for your placement, which will be undertaken in your third year. It is necessary that your counselling skills have reached a minimal level before you start your placement, as you will be working with potentially vulnerable members of the public.
YEAR 1
Year 1 will introduce you to counselling theory and practice and will enable you to establish and develop your counselling skills. You will develop counselling competency to Graduate Certificate level (in itself considered a desirable qualification by employers).
You will also be introduced to academic research skills and will learn how counselling theory can be applied in everyday life. In the Mindfulness and Wellbeing module you will learn specific skills to minimise stress and improve your general wellbeing, and this is an approach which is currently becoming more widely known.
Counselling & Psychotherapeutic Approaches
Counselling & Communication Skills
Introduction to the Research & Philosophy of Counselling
Intermediate Counselling Skills – Therapy, Ethics & Human Rights
Intermediate Counselling Skills – Therapeutic Skills
Mindfulness & Wellbeing
YEAR 2
This year consolidates and deepens your counselling skills and prepares you thoroughly for professional practice on your placement.
At the end of the second year you can choose to transfer to the non-qualifying degree, the BSc (Hons) Counselling and Psychotherapy: Theoretical Studies, which has a greater focus on research and does not include the professional placement.
Preparation for Practice
Reflective Practice & Research
Professional Issues, Ethics & Supervision
Professional Skills
Theory of Counselling & Psychotherapy Practice
Personal & Professional Development 1
YEAR 3
The main focus of this year is the supervised professional placement. This is an opportunity to work in a real professional situation applying the skills you have learnt in the previous two years and developing therapeutic relationships with people in real need. You will be fully supervised and supported in this placement.
This year also develops your understanding of how counselling and psychotherapy are used in a range of situations and for a range of issues.
As well as developing highly relevant and useful skills, the CBT module is very important for supporting your future employment in those services that require CBT skills.
Personal & Professional Development 2
Professional Practice
Professional Practice Placement
CBT Skills
Counselling & Mental Health