Professional Doctorate in Psychology with Counselling Practice (Level 8)

The Professional Doctorate in Psychology with Counselling Practice is aimed at a wide range of graduates and professionals of Human – Social Sciences and Healthcare Professionals that wish to develop academically and professionally in Psychology.

Required documentation:

• Copy of University degree issued by Greek or foreign Universities in Psychology (1st class/2:1)
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS 6.5)
• Experience in research
• Prior training in counselling skills and or other relevant therapeutic training (e.g. specialised seminars or workshops; counselling training undertaken as a health or social care worker; or certificate in counselling skills)
• Relevant work and or voluntary experience in a mental health setting. This must be face-to-face and more than ‘befriending’

A personal interview complements the evaluation of the above documentation.

The objective of this Professional Doctorate in Psychology with Counselling Practice (Level 8) at Metropolitan College is to train mental health professional who will have developed a strong identity as Psychologists, will be responsible to society and the profession, and will be characterised by integrity and suitability to perform clinical work.

Counselling Psychology is a sector of psychology that specialises in the application of psychological and psychotherapeutic theory and research in clinical practice. The programme’s main philosophy is humanistic and it promotes the relational approach in therapy, which is based on the principles of development of intersubjectivity and the approaches of two-person psychology.

The programme brings together the four pillars of the main training in the field: academic education, clinical training, research training and personal/professional development. Its aim is to also teach students empirically that the purpose of the therapy is to promote the psychological well-being of persons, focusing on their subjective experience.

A major advantage of the Professional Doctorate in Psychology with Counselling Practice is that it greatly emphasises on the employability of graduates. The programme’s position on clinical practices is one of respect, trust and honesty with regard to the client’s subjective experience. Furthermore, personal growth (including personal therapy), reflective exercises and counselling skills practices are part of the scope.

The programme focuses on developing critical thinking and critical synthesis during therapy. In particular, during the 1st year of the programme the Cognitive-Behavioural model is taught, which covers the skills of BABCP Level 1. During the 2nd year, psychodynamic principles that combine with existing knowledge in cognitive-behavioural approach are taught. During the 3rd year, ideas and approaches of the modern, third wave of cognitive-behavioural treatment are taught, such as “mindfulness”, “schema-focused therapy”, “acceptance & commitment therapy”.

MODULES PER YEAR

1st Year

• Professional Practice in Counselling Psychology 1
• Foundations of Counselling Psychology: Research and Practice
• Integrating Theory Research and Practice 1: Relational CBT – Informed Practice and Research

2nd Year

• Professional Practice in Counselling Psychology 2
• Perspectives on Research
• Integrating Theory Research and Practice 2

3rd Year

• Professional Practice in Counselling Psychology 3
• Supervision, Consultation and Leadership
• Integrating Theory, Research and Practice 3
• Research Thesis

Degree from a top International University: University of East London

Career Prospects
The Professional Doctorate in Psychology with Counselling Practice greatly emphasises on the employability of graduates. Throughout their studies at Metropolitan College, students are properly prepared to offer their services and knowledge and pursue positions in:

• The public of private sector
• Social services
• Healthcare units
• Community frameworks
• Institutions