Course Overview:

The Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy by Professional Studies (DCPsych) is a rigorous programme that combines professional training in counselling psychology with an advanced understanding and practice of psychotherapy. On qualifying, students are awarded a dual qualification as both UKCP registered psychotherapists and BPS/ HCPC registered counselling psychologists.  Rooted in humanistic, psychodynamic, and integrative approaches, the programme uniquely prepares students to work therapeutically across diverse client groups and settings, including the NHS, industry, third sector, private practice, academic and research roles, and many others.  

This programme fosters critical self-reflection, clinical expertise, and the development of a unique therapeutic style. It places emphasis on understanding human behaviour within therapeutic relationships and broader social contexts and incorporates both verbal and non-verbal therapeutic modalities. Candidates engage with complex psychological phenomena, including trauma, attachment, and relational dynamics, supporting their growth as autonomous, reflective practitioners. 

Content: 

The training is rooted in relational models of Counselling Psychology practice. The programme incorporates relational psychodynamic models, humanistic and systemic perspectives, and 2^nd and 3^rd wave Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. You will also be introduced to expressive and creative therapies. In this way, the training equips you with the knowledge to develop your own personal integrative model based on these approaches. In addition, the programme is underpinned by practitioner-researcher philosophy and comprises an innovative design which seeks to integrate research and practice at doctoral level. Research training is included in and throughout, the programme. 

Modules:

• Year 1: Foundations of Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy - Psychological Assessment and Formulation - Research Methods in Practice 

• Year 2: Advanced Clinical Skills - Integrative Psychotherapy Processes, including Expressive and Creative Arts therapy techniques - Reflective Practice and Professional Development 

• Year 3: Psychopathology and Trauma - Therapeutic Relationships and the Self - Applied Research in Clinical Settings 

• Year 4: Advanced Therapy Techniques - Clinical Dissertation and Oral Assessment, Advanced Research Methods 

• Year 5: Optional Writing up Year  

Teaching Methods:

Teaching occurs through monthly intensive training weekends, where theoretical learning is enriched through small-group discussions and experiential exercises. Skills are practised through role-play and supervised clinical practice, with reflective group sessions encouraging self-awareness. Regular Group Process sessions are held to deepen personal insight and relational understanding.

Clinical Placements, Personal Therapy, and Supervision:

Clinical placements are arranged through the Metanoia Institute's Placement Coordinator, including opportunities at Metanoia’s in-house counselling and psychotherapy services and NHS-affiliated sites. Clinical placements include at least 450 hours of supervised practice. Students must complete 160 hours of personal therapy throughout the programme, along with a minimum of 80 hours of clinical supervision. Mental Health Familiarisation, consisting of 140 hours, provides additional exposure to diverse clinical settings. 

Course Summary:

• Duration: 4 years
• Start Dates: September 2025
• Teaching Institution: Metanoia Institute
• Awarding Institution: Middlesex University
• Accrediting Professional Bodies: BPS, HCPC
• Entry Requirements:
• English Language Requirements:

• A 2:1 (or higher) degree in psychology with a Graduate Basis for Chartered Membership (GBC) from the British Psychological Society (BPS), or a BPS-accredited conversion qualification conferring GBC.
• Relevant work or life experience, such as volunteer counselling, personal therapy, or volunteering within the community.
• Qualification in counselling skills, such as a certificate or diploma level award (e.g., Metanoia’s Certificate in Therapeutic Skills and Studies or equivalent).
• For non-native English speakers, IELTS score of 7.5 or equivalent. Alternatively, proof of a higher education degree taught in English within the last three years.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must meet Metanoia Institute’s English language requirements for undergraduate applicants. We accept IELTS, or equivalent qualifications as outlined in our admissions criteria. For specific requirements and accepted scores, please refer to the Metanoia Institute website.

• Location: Metanoia Institute

Contact for Further Information:

• Head of Programme: Dr Ariana Jordan
  Email: ariana.jordan@metanoia.ac.uk

• Head of Programme: Dr Michelle Ruger
  Email: michelle.ruger@metanoia.ac.uk

• Academic Coordinator contact information: dcpsychadmin@metanoia.ac.uk

Middlesex Programme Spec

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At Metanoia, we are committed to empowering the next generation of professionals in counselling and psychotherapy. This programme offers a unique opportunity to develop your skills and achieve your career aspirations in a supportive learning environment.

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ℹ️ Updated 14 Dec 2024