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

Modules | 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. 


Our training is rooted in relational models of Counselling Psychology practice. The programme incorporates relational psychodynamic models, humanistic and systemic perspectives, and 2nd and 3rd 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.

 

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).

Middlesex and UKCP Logo

 

📄 Learn more about our teaching and assessment

Download the Middlesex University Programme Specification for full details on our curriculum, assessment methods, and academic structure.

📥 Download Programme Specification