Psychodynamic Counselling (Certificate in Higher Education)

Program Overview

The Psychodynamic Counselling program at Birkbeck provides a foundation for professional and voluntary roles in counselling. It emphasizes self-reflection, psychodynamic theory, and practical experience, preparing students for further training or careers in helping roles. The part-time program is accessible to individuals with no prior training and is taught by experienced clinicians and researchers.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• The Psychodynamic Counselling program offers a foundation for developing skills and knowledge for professional and voluntary roles, or as preparation for clinical training.
• The course focuses on self-reflection, the relationship between inner and outer worlds, application of psychodynamic theory in practice, and social and organizational factors influencing the professional counselling context.
• This part-time program is offered over two years, with one weekly class taking place either during the day, evening, or on Saturdays.
• No prior training is required, and hands-on, practical experience is emphasized, covering various counselling and therapeutic approaches.
• Instructors are experienced clinicians and active researchers.

Highlights:

• Birkbeck has a long-standing reputation in counselling training, with the first program established in 1972.
• You will be learning in a prestigious academic department with a recognized track record of excellence among employers.
• The course features practical experience and does not require prior training, covering a range of counselling and therapeutic approaches.
• Your teachers will be senior, experienced clinicians and active researchers.

Outline:

Course structure:

• The program consists of four modules:
• Inner and Outer Worlds: psychoanalytic and psychosocial understandings
• Listening, self-reflection and the counselling framework
• Psychoanalytic theory and practice
• Psychodynamic Counselling in a Psychosocial Framework
• The course is designed for part-time study over two years, with one weekly class held during the day, evening, or on Saturdays.
• Completion of all four modules (totaling 120 credits) is required to receive the Certificate in Higher Education (CertHE).

Year 1 Modules:

• Inner and Outer Worlds: Explores psychoanalytic and psychosocial understandings.
• Listening, self-reflection and the counselling framework: Develops essential skills in listening and self-reflection within the counselling framework.

Year 2 Modules:

• Psychoanalytic theory and practice: Delves into the theoretical foundation and practical applications of psychoanalytic psychotherapy.
• Psychodynamic Counselling in a Psychosocial Framework: Examines the interaction of psychodynamic principles within the broader context of social and cultural influences on counselling.

Assessment:

• Assessments are 100% coursework-based, including evaluations of counselling skills development and theoretical understanding.
• Coursework will likely consist of essays, written assignments, case studies, presentations, and practical demonstrations of counselling skills.

Teaching:

• Teaching methods in the program are likely to involve lectures, seminars, and practical classes.
• Lectures will present an overview of essential topics while seminars will provide opportunities for in-depth exploration and discussion with fellow students.
• Practical sessions will involve role-playing, simulations, and other activities to develop counselling skills.
• Students will have access to support from a named personal tutor.
• Teaching hours are typically between 6pm and 9pm, with day-time teaching available on some programs.
• Independent study and preparation are crucial elements of the learning process, requiring significant self-directed learning outside of class.

Careers:

• This certificate program lays a strong foundation for pursuing further training in counselling and psychotherapy, but it is not in itself a complete accreditation for professional practice.
• Graduates can explore career options in various helping roles within organizations and communities.
• The Birkbeck Careers and Enterprise service provides support and guidance throughout your career journey.

Other:

• No prior entry qualifications are required, although work experience is highly valued, particularly for applicants without formal academic backgrounds.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, and self-reflection skills are essential for success in the program.
• Birkbeck offers various learning and development support services, including academic skills training, writing guidance, and disability and dyslexia support.
• Mental health and counselling support services are also available to students who require assistance during their studies.
• The program offers an excellent introduction to psychodynamic principles, therapeutic skills, and the theoretical foundations of counselling practice, while also preparing graduates for further training in the field.
• The course has a strong reputation and is delivered by experienced and respected professionals in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

• Part-time home students: £4,025 per year
• Part-time international students: £4,025 per year