About this degree

This certificate provides the formal training required as part of a student's employment within an Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) service. Students on this programme will secure a placement working as a trainee Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP) delivering low intensity cognitive behavioural interventions. Trainees on this programme will gain the knowledge necessary for providing low intensity interventions for clients with mild to moderate depression and anxiety in their primary healthcare work setting, together with the clinical skills essential to assess and engage clients, and to deliver interventions within a guided self-help model.

Who this course is for

Applicants are required to show evidence of ability to study successfully at postgraduate level and evidence of experience in an employed or formal volunteer helping role with people with psychological, interpersonal or social problems. They should have a broad understanding of mental health issues and ability to form a good helping relationship with people with mental health problems, obtained through work or volunteer experience. Applicants should also have good communication skills, and the ability to use clinical supervision and personal development positively and effectively.

What this course will give you

The UCL programme is run and taught by experienced practitioners in the field, and therefore a balance is achieved between the teaching of the theoretical knowledge needed and the practical skills necessary in training as a Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner (PWP).

Students will receive employment and practical experience in an Improving Access to Psychological Therapies Service alongside this formal training needed in order to become a qualified Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner.

The foundation of your career
Employability

The Postgraduate Certificate is the formal training required as part of the student's employment as an IAPT Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner. Trainee PWPs are appointed at band 4 and upon successful completion of the programme will move to being qualified PWPs. It is anticipated that trainees will stay in these positions after completing the programme, working as a qualified PWP in an IAPT service.

Accreditation

This programme is accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS).

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, skills practice, clinical seminar skills groups, directed reading and e-learning. Assessments are a combination of written and oral assignments. Written assignments include an examination, a supervision case report and reflective accounts. Oral assignments are an Assessment Simulation (OSCE), live recording of a treatment session and a Diversity case presentation exam.