Welcome to...

...

Did you know your Internet Explorer is out of date?

To get the best possible experience using our website we recommend that you upgrade to a newer version or other web browser. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below.

Just click on the icons to get to the download page

If you understand that your browser is inadequate but you still wish to view the site click here

Application
for 25/26 Entry

Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy

Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy by Professional Studies (DCPsych)

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. 
Programmes > Postgraduate Research > Doctorate in Counselling Psychology and Psychotherapy by Professional Studies (DCPsych) > Modules > Dates >  Staff > Contact Us

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. Read more about the course content here. 

 

Course Summary

  • Duration: 4 years
  • Start Dates: September 2025
  • Teaching Institution: Metanoia Institute
  • Awarding Institution: Middlesex University
  • Accrediting Professional Bodies: British Psychological Society (BPS), Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), and United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
  • Entry 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).
    • A short (1000-1500 words) research proposal for a project that addresses a topic of importance and interest to the disciplines of counselling psychology and psychotherapy. Read the guidelines here.
    • For students whose first language is not English, an IELTS score of 7.0 (with a minimum of 6.5 in each component) is required unless you have a prior higher education qualification taught in English. 
    • Applicants must have the right to live, work, and study in the UK at the time of application. Clinical placements must be undertaken within the UK, and supervisors must be registered with a UK-based professional body.
  • Location: Metanoia Institute

 

Annual Course Fees

2025/2026 Fees:

  • Year 1: £9,025
  • Year 2: £9,025
  • Year 3: £9,025
  • Year 4: £9,025
  • Continued writing up of research (Per semester): £2,125.
  • An additional fee of £925 would apply in the unlikely event of a resubmission being necessary for your doctoral research project and viva.

2024/2025 Fees:

  • Year 1: £8,750
  • Year 2: £8,750 
  • Year 3: £8,750
  • Year 4: £8,750
  • Continued writing up of research (Per semester): £2,063
  • An additional fee of £900 would apply in the unlikely event of a resubmission being necessary for your doctoral research project and viva.

 

Validated by Middlesex University and Accredited by BPS, HCPC and UKCP

The programme is validated and quality assured by Middlesex University. This course is also accredited by the British Psychological Society (BPS), Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP). 

📥 Middlesex Programme Spec 

Partner logos: MDX, BPS, HCPC, UKCP

 

Start Your Application

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. 

Read our Research Proposal Guidelines and click the button below to begin your application:

Start your application

 

ℹ️ Updated 25 Mar 2025