Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

Intro

Why choose this course?

• Focus on the development of competence in the practical application of CBT methods in working with individual adult clients experiencing common mental health problems
• Grounded in an evidence-based approach to practice
• Blended approach to learning, including intensive workshops and on-line support
• Flexible mode of delivery to facilitate accessibility to the programme for busy practitioners

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a talking therapy that is based on the idea that our emotions and behaviour are influenced by our thoughts and beliefs. CBT has grown in prominence as an evidence-based and effective way of treating a wide range of psychological problems. The Postgraduate Certificate in CBT provides an opportunity for suitably qualified health professionals from a range of disciplines to expand their therapeutic skills by developing competence in CBT methods in working with individual adult clients in relation to common clinical conditions such as depression and anxiety.

What you study

What you study
You will study 3 modules and complete the programme over one academic year.  Attendance consists of intensive blocks, alongside the use of an on-line learning package.  Additional time is needed for clinical placements, clinical supervision and independent study.

Module 1 - Introduction to cognitive-behavioural therapy: This module outlines the history and current developments in CBT, and its core principles and methods. Other topics covered include: assessment, case formulation and treatment planning, developing a collaborative relationship, implementing cognitive and behavioural change strategies. In addition, you will be introduced to CBT theory and methods in relation to anxiety and depression in preparation for subsequent modules.  This module can be taken as a stand-alone CPD module, after which students have the option to complete the remaining two modules to gain the PG Certificate in CBT. There is no clinical practice requirement for this module (however students must have access to clients to successfully complete modules 2 and 3).

Before starting this module, students complete directed pre-course reading, then attend an induction day in September followed by a 4-day non-residential block in October which incorporates lectures, seminars, workshops and skills practice. The assessment consists of an essay in which students examine basic principles of CBT, and reflect on the personal and professional challenges that may arise from applying a CBT approach in practice.

Module 2 - CBT interventions for anxiety disorders: This module is concerned with CBT perspectives on anxiety and developing competence in the use of CBT interventions for a range of anxiety disorders. Students attend a 4-day non-residential block in November and a final follow-up day in April. Throughout the module, students are required to have opportunities for practicing CBT interventions with clients with anxiety disorders and to receive supervision, at least monthly, for their CBT practice. The assessment consists of an essay in which the student presents a case study of their use of CBT with a client experiencing some form of anxiety.

Module 3 - CBT interventions for depression: The focus of this module is on the application of CBT theory to depression and the development of skills in the use of CBT interventions with clients presenting with mild to moderate depression. Students attend a 4-day non-residential block in January and a final follow-up day in April. Throughout the module, students are required to have opportunities for practicing CBT interventions with clients experiencing depression, and to receive supervision, at least monthly, for their CBT practice. Assessment consists of an essay in which the student presents a case study of their use of CBT with a depressed client.

How you learn and are assessed
You will learn through a variety of teaching and learning formats. In addition to attending lectures, seminars, and workshops, you will have access to on-line learning materials available both on and off campus 24/7. A key feature of the course is the use of both practice placements and independent study. The course emphasises the importance of the creation of a learning community, which allows for the possibility of student choice and a collaborative approach to teaching and learning.

A variety of coursework-based assessment is used to adapt and adjust to individual learning styles and to help you address the many different needs of your employment.

Costs
In addition to the tuition fee paid to the University, participants will be required to meet the costs of any clinical supervision, and the purchase of core textbooks. Participation in on-line learning activities requires internet access.

Entry routes

Applicants need to have completed a relevant professional qualification (eg in counselling/psychotherapy, nursing, mental health, psychiatry, psychology, occupational therapy, social work) and have at least 12 months practical clinical experience of working with people experiencing psychological problems. It is essential that applicants have access to opportunities to make use of CBT interventions with clients/patients in their current work setting or within an appropriate placement agency.

• Criminal Records check required

Course content

More info

Your future
The PGCert Cognitive Behavioural Therapy is designed to meet the on-going professional development needs of a range of healthcare professionals. Practitioners with CBT skills are employed in a variety of settings: the health service, education, social services, the voluntary sector, private sector, and industry.

Professional accreditation
The course has been designed in accordance with nationally recognised guidelines for CBT competencies.

More information
PGCert Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy