Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy

Program Overview

The Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy program at the University of Adelaide equips students with the knowledge, skills, and professional development to become effective counsellors and psychotherapists. The program emphasizes practical counselling skills, a deep understanding of human behavior, and the application of evidence-based therapeutic techniques. Students can specialize in clinical practice or research, and will be prepared for a wide range of roles in the mental health field.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy program at the University of Adelaide is designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and professional development necessary to become effective and ethical counsellors and psychotherapists. This two-year program emphasizes the development of practical counselling skills, a deep understanding of human behaviour and psychopathology, and the ability to apply evidence-based therapeutic techniques.

Objectives:

• Develop a comprehensive understanding of counselling theories, techniques, and ethical principles.
• Acquire advanced skills in the delivery of individual and group counselling and psychotherapy.
• Gain proficiency in assessing and diagnosing mental health disorders and developing treatment plans.
• Enhance self-awareness, personal growth, and professional development in the context of counselling practice.

Program Description:

The program is structured to provide students with a solid foundation in counselling theory and practice, followed by specialization in either clinical practice or research. Students in the clinical practice pathway will engage in supervised counselling placements, while those in the research pathway will complete a dissertation.

Outline:

Year 1:

• Attachment Processes in the Therapeutic Relationship
• Counselling Skills 1
• Counselling and Psychotherapy Theories
• Mindfulness-based Counselling Applications
• Ethics in the Workplace
• Counselling Skills 2
• Nature of Grief
• Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

Year 2:

Clinical Practice Pathway:

• Counselling Placement 1A (0 units)
• Narrative Approaches to Counselling
• Trauma Informed Practice
• Closed Elective Course
• Counselling Placement 1B (6 units)
• Overview of Mental Health
• Two Closed Elective Courses

Research Pathway:

• Dissertation Part 1 (0 units)
• Qualitative Research Method in Health
• Closed Elective Course
• Dissertation Part 2 (12 units)
• Overview of Mental Health
• Two Closed Elective Courses

Assessment:

Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, including:

• Case reports
• Presentations
• Quizzes
• Written assignments
• Counselling placements
• Research thesis

Teaching:

The program is taught by a team of experienced counsellors and psychotherapists who are actively engaged in research and practice. Teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Seminars
• Tutorials
• Workshops
• Supervised counselling placements
The program also includes a strong emphasis on experiential learning, with students participating in role-plays, simulations, and case studies.

Careers:

Graduates of the program will be prepared for a wide range of roles in the mental health field, including:

• Mental Health Worker
• Counsellor
• Psychotherapist
• Therapist
• Community Services Officer