Compassion Focused Therapy (Level 7, 30 credits)
Part-time
Distance Learning
One semester
September 2025
In a nutshell
This online module offers you training in how Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT) can be integrated into your therapeutic practice. It is delivered by Elaine Beaumont and supported by her best-selling book 'The Compassionate Mind Workbook'.
CFT was developed by a team led by Professor Paul Gilbert, based in Derby, specifically to help clients with deep-seated issues associated with shame. Since then the approach has been found to be helpful in a wide range of mental health contexts including trauma, anger and addiction. CFT offers a structured approach to helping clients cultivate compassion for themselves and for others and it is relevant to all professionals working in the context of mental health.
You will:
- demonstrate a comprehensive and systematic understanding of the theory and practice of Compassion Focused Therapy
- apply Compassion Focused Therapy to practice
- critically analyse Compassion Focused Therapy from a theoretical and practical perspective
students accepted
All about the course
This online module will help you to develop an understanding of the theory, research evidence and practice of Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
The module will introduce you to specific CFT interventions, case formulation and assessment.
CFT was originally developed by Professor Paul Gilbert to help people with high levels of shame and self-criticism.
The Module aims:
- To provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the theory of Compassion Focused Therapy
- To engage you in the practical application of Compassion Focused Therapy
- To engage you in critically evaluating Compassion Focused Therapy in practice
- To utilise a placement for the access of client information for use in the assessment of the module
Please note that it may not be possible to deliver the full list of options every year as this will depend on factors such as how many students choose a particular option. Exact modules may also vary in order to keep content current. When accepting your offer of a place to study on this programme, you should be aware that not all optional modules will be running each year. Your tutor will be able to advise you as to the available options on or before the start of the programme. Whilst the University tries to ensure that you are able to undertake your preferred options, it cannot guarantee this.
The School of Health and Society
The School of Health and Society is a forward-thinking, dynamic school with a commitment to lifelong learning and real world impact.
Our courses are informed by the latest research and we work closely with organisations from both the public and private sector to ensure our teaching is at the forefront of practice.
What about after uni?
This course can be taken as a standalone module for continuing professional development to enhance your practice and career options. It can also be taken as part of one of our Master's courses:
MSc/PgDip/PgCert Advanced Counselling and Psychotherapy Studies
MSc/PgDip/PgCert Advanced Counselling and Psychotherapy Studies (Supervision)
Career Links
We work with over 100 health and social care organisations so our links with industry are very strong. These relationships will be of direct benefit to you because our academic team work in practice in some of these organisations at a senior level so are able to keep you at the forefront of developments in the sector which in turn help you provide a better service.
What you need to know
This module is aimed at counsellors, pyschotherapists, CBT therapists, coaches, teachers, educators, and HR practitioners.
Previous study and experience
Normally 2:2 Hons degree or equivalent is required.
You must also have evidence of professional membership (BACP/UKCP or equivalent) and you must be currently in practice as a counsellor/psychotherapist.
You will also need to have a professional qualification in counselling or psychotherapy.
Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL)
We welcome applications from students who may not have formal/traditional entry criteria but who have relevant experience or the ability to pursue the course successfully.
The Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process could help you to make your work and life experience count. The APL process can be used for entry onto courses or to give you exemptions from parts of your course.
Two forms of APL may be used for entry: the Accreditation of Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).
How much?
| Type of study | Year | Fees |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time home | 2025/26 | £1,530.00per year |
Additional costs
You should also consider further costs which may include books, stationery, printing, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits.