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

Our 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: Understanding PsychologicalDistress: Knowledge Integration & Application; Professional and Ethical Foundations of Practice; Humanistic Approaches in Counselling Psychology; CBT, Brief and Solution‑Focused
  Models; Research 1 – Approaches to Knowledge & Evidence; Professional Practice & Placement 1; Personal and Professional Development
• Year 2: Advanced Practice 1; Power and Difference in Therapeutic Practice; Psychodynamic Approaches in Counselling Psychology; Research 2 – Practitioner Research Proposal; Professional Practice & Placement 2
• Year 3: Advanced Professional Development & Challenges in Contemporary Integrative Practice; Advanced Practice 2; Research 3 – Methodology & PAP; Practitioner Research Project 1 – Progress Review; Professional Practice & Placement 3; 
• Year 4: Integrative Practice: Clinical Dissertation & Client Skills Assessment; Professional Practice & Placement 4; Research 4 – Analysis & Write‑Up; Practitioner Research Project: Progress Review 
• (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.

Validated by Middlesex University and Accredited by UKCP

The MSc in Transactional Analysis Psychotherapy is validated and quality assured by Middlesex University. This course is also accredited by the United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP).