Counselling psychology is embedded in the discipline of psychology and concerns itself with applied areas of psychological work, which overlap with the provinces of psychotherapy, clinical psychology, counselling and psychiatry. It is informed by a number of philosophical stances underlying issues of development and change, with a particular focus on the wide range of human psychological functioning across the lifespan. The Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology is therefore designed to provide opportunities for professional and personal development in an applied field that values both medical and human science, while taking the position that all knowledge is contextually based. The course is particularly suited to students interested in professional training that will equip them for employment as a clinician in the NHS, the voluntary sector or in private practice. This is achieved by facilitating the development of a flexible, reflective and critical approach to counselling psychology theory, research and practice. The clinical focus of the training in years one and two is cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT), including second and third-wave CBT. In the third and fourth yeard of the training, you will consider psychodynamic and integrative approaches.

The Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology will enable you to apply for paid work as a counsellor or trainee counselling psychologists as you continue to work towards full chartered counselling psychologist status and registration with the HCPC. On completion of training, all of our trainees have secured paid work in NHS or private sector settings. Whoever you are, whatever your background, we want to help you make the most of your time at UEL and ensure that your course will help lead you to where you want to go. UEL's dedicated Employability and Enterprise Team (EET) is on hand to support you throughout your studies and beyond. Not only should your course help lead you to the job you want, but also the skills and experience you gain along the way can prove invaluable both in starting and developing your career.