DPsych Counselling Psychology

The HCPC approved and BPS-accredited Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology is the first of its kind in Wales, offering training in three therapeutic modalities, Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy, Integrative Psychotherapy and Systemic practice.

The programme is underpinned by a Relational and Pluralist philosophy and value base, with a strong focus on social justice. In addition to your training as a counselling psychology practitioner, you will undertake a doctoral level research thesis on a relevant subject.

As part of the Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology you will complete 450 hours supervised clinical hours. On graduating, you will be eligible to apply for registration with the HCPC and Chartered status with the BPS. The USW School of Psychology and Therapeutic Studies are ideally placed to offer this new course because of its expertise in both counselling and psychology teaching and research.

The vibrant, well-established psychology subject area has particular strengths in developmental disorders, health psychology and addictions, whilst the Newport campus acts as a regional hub for counselling and psychotherapy training.

Assessment

Assessment will be varied to reflect the range of professional competencies and experiences that you will develop on the programme.

These will include essays, case studies, presentations, process reports, research proposal, assessed skills practice, personal development reviews and placement reports.

Students will also submit a doctoral research thesis of a maximum of 50,000 words, which will be examined by viva voce.

Careers

When you have completed and passed all components of the programme, including 450 hours of supervised clinical work and the research thesis, you will be able to apply for HCPC registration and chartered status with the BPS. Once qualified, you will be equipped to work with a variety of client groups, including adults, groups, families and couples in a broad range of settings, for example, the NHS and third sector organisations.