The MA in Psychotherapy and Counselling is a British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accredited course. The programme offers a strong focus on high quality research and clinical skills training. It provides an opportunity to critically and creatively evaluate current theory and practice issues. Psychotherapeutic theory which prioritises the therapeutic relationship as the crucial factor will be critically examined and students will be encouraged to learn more about themselves in relationships, to develop their own approach to therapy based on their own values and beliefs. You will be able to deliver psychological therapy across different socio-cultural contexts considering the ethical and intersectional dimensions of your practice.
You will be equipped to work as a professional counsellor/psychotherapist and make independent clinical decisions in a variety of settings including complex and unpredictable situations. You will learn to carry out specialist psychotherapeutic assessments, communicate and present complex and sensitive information and gain knowledge of adult safeguarding procedures.
Your therapeutic learning community will consist of no more than 24 students per cohort. You will engage in experiential learning activities to develop your self- and intersubjective awareness when becoming a relational practitioner. This small group enables personal support from your peers and tutors to help with the emotional challenges of the learning experience. Many students bring a wealth of personal experience that helps them to reflect on a range of human issues.
In addition to the taught elements of the programme you must complete 100 supervised practice hours to become eligible for BACP membership. You must find your own placement but the practice placement unit are available to support you. Our practice placement unit have a comprehensive range of approved placement opportunities in a variety of clinical settings.
You’ll benefit from the knowledge of experienced counsellors, psychotherapists and practitioner psychologists, with senior levels of registration. Our teaching staff are also active researchers, with a range of specialisms. You’ll develop the knowledge and skills to conduct independent in-depth research into a complex specialist area. In your final year, our innovative annual student conference gives you chance to share your research with peers.
