The programme is designed to provide education and training in an integrative approach to counselling and psychotherapy to a level appropriate for safe, ethical and effective practice. It provides a foundation for you to develop as a counsellors/psychotherapist through: * intensive training in practical skills * a core model within which it is possible to integrate concepts and techniques from a variety of orientations * opportunities to extend your academic and professional development to MA level. You are encouraged to develop your own integrative ways of thinking and working, based on critical appraisal of a range of theoretical perspectives – and what works for you with your clients – rather than adherence to a particular theoretical school. The course is designed to appeal to a diverse range of occupational groups within the ‘helping professions’. It is also appropriate for those who wish to work in private practice. The Postgraduate Diploma includes all the elements required by BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) accreditation, providing a balance of theory, skills training, personal development and clinical practice.

* Many students are already either working as counsellors/therapists or have counselling/therapy as a function of a wider professional role. Completing the programme often leads to career progression within their current employment. Other students use the diploma to apply for voluntary placements to extend their experience/client hours required for accreditation and also for paid sessional or part-time work before applying for full-time jobs. Some students set up their own private/independent practice and/or become trainers or supervisors. * The programme satisfies the educational and training requirements for BACP individual practitioner accreditation – increasingly the requirement for employment as a counsellor – and enables graduates to achieve ‘Registered Member MBACP’ status * The Diploma will enable you to apply for voluntary or sessional/part-time paid work and to continue to work towards BACP accreditation.