Counselling, psychotherapy and occupational therapy - Subject Guide

Counselling, psychotherapy and occupational therapy covers a very wide range of applied science and healthcare related areas and your studies can readily be applied to a diversity of workplace environments. There are many different specialisations which can be followed, although these are typically made during at postgraduate level, and solidified through work experience. 

• Paediatrics: Focusing on the care of children and adolescents, paediatricians specialise in diagnosing and treating childhood illnesses, developmental disorders, and injuries. They provide preventive care, vaccinations, and guidance on nutrition and growth, ensuring the health and well-being of young patients.  

• Gerontology: Gerontology explores all aspects of ageing, as well as the impact of age-related changes on individuals and society. Gerontologists work to improve the quality of life for older adults through healthcare, social services, and advocacy.  

• Behavioural therapy: Behavioural therapists use various techniques and interventions to address issues like anxiety, depression, addiction, and disruptive behaviours, contributing to an individual’s wellbeing.  

• Mental health: Mental health specialists deal with disorders such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia, which can significantly impact an individual's feelings, and behaviours. They work with patients to improve their ability to cope with stress, maintain healthy relationships, and function effectively in daily life.  

• Art therapy: Art and craft techniques like drawing, painting, and sculpting are used to promote healing and self-discovery. Therapists help clients to explore their emotions, reduce stress, and gain insight into their experiences. 

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• Counselling theories and techniques 

• Human development and behaviour 

• Assessment and diagnosis in mental health 

• Psychopathology  

• Occupational therapy interventions 

• Family therapy 

• Trauma counselling  

• Rehabilitation techniques 

• Ethics and professional standards 

While studying counselling, psychotherapy, and occupational therapy, you’ll acquire a range of subject-specific skills tailored to each discipline. In counselling and psychotherapy, you can expect to develop active listening skills, empathy, and the ability to establish therapeutic rapport with clients. In occupational therapy, you’ll learn to make various types of assessment and design personalised interventions to improve their engagement in daily life tasks. Furthermore, you’ll build strong collaboration and communication skills to work effectively within multidisciplinary teams of healthcare professionals and advocate for the well-being of your clients. 

You’ll also learn a range of transferable skills which enable you to thrive in many different workplace environments. These include: 

• Listening 

• Observational skills 

• Emotional intelligence 

• Strategy building 

• Organisational skills 

In the UK, professional accreditation for counselling, psychotherapy, and occupational therapy is overseen by several regulatory bodies. Some examples are: 

• British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) 

Provides accreditation for counsellors and psychotherapists, ensuring they meet rigorous standards of competence and ethical practice. 

• United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) 

Offers accreditation for psychotherapists, including a range of psychotherapeutic modalities and approaches. 

• Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) 

Regulates occupational therapists in the UK, setting standards for education, training, and professional practice. Occupational therapists must be registered with the HCPC to practice legally in the UK. 

Counselling, psychotherapy and occupational therapy courses shares many aspects with other applied healthcare degree, and if you’re interested in exploring alternative options then you may be interested in the following degree options: 

• Physiotherapy 

• Nursing 

• Psychology 

• Sociology 

• Social work 

With a degree in counselling, psychotherapy, or occupational therapy, you can pursue various career paths in mental health and rehabilitation settings around the world. You could work as a counsellor, psychotherapist, or occupational therapist, providing therapeutic support to individuals, families, and groups. Alternatively, you could work more closely with hospitals and health organisations, in mental health centres, schools, or private practices. Other career paths include academic research, teaching, or consultancy, where you contribute to advancing knowledge, training future professionals, or providing expert advice in the field. Career paths include: 

• Psychotherapist 

• Occupational therapist 

• Mental health specialist 

• Marriage and family therapist 

• School counsellor 

• Rehabilitation counsellor 

• Art therapist 

• Substance abuse counsellor 

• Music therapist 

• Career advisor 

• Geriatric counsellor 

These are just a few of the most common job roles. You’ll find plenty of other options available to you, and you can also continue your studies by completing a postgraduate degree in counselling, psychotherapy, occupational therapy, or a related subject. 

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