Diploma Programme

This Diploma programme is embedded in an integrative approach to counselling, embracing the concepts of Person-Centred Counselling, Psychodynamic Counselling and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy from a Christian perspective.

Students are encouraged to grow together in a learning community that is supportive and mutually inspiring. The course material is taught through didactic teaching, facilitated media and video presentations, small and large group discussion and skills practice. Students are encouraged to read, study, practise and process the material that is presented.

Award

Learners exit the programme with a COSCA-recognised Diploma in Integrative Counselling, with a Christian Perspective.

Over the years students living in the UK have gone on to be accredited by BACP and COSCA (in Scotland). The course has 450 hours of Class/Tutor Contact, 100 hours of client work in a suitable centre, with a ratio of Supervision 1:6.

Following completion of the Diploma, students have the option of undertaking further study to obtain a Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy through colleges like PCI College in Dublin and Belfast or IICP in Dublin. Those with a primary degree can be admitted to the master’s programmes in these colleges.

Course Overview

The course programme is highly interactive and taught through role- play, live lectures, group-work and audio/video presentations and lectures. The ethos of the course promotes a warm, safe environment that is free from fear, criticism and coercion. Participants will have the opportunity to produce and participate in individual written assignments, group projects and group work.

Course Aims

  • To introduce participants to a practical approach to counselling

  • To encourage psychological wellbeing within the programme and empower and encourage support networks

  • To provide a warm and challenging environment where students can learn and grow as individuals and in community

  • To encourage students to view this course in the context of lifelong learning

Course Objectives

At the end of the course, students will be able to:

  • Describe the theories underpinning counselling and psychotherapeutic practice – Person-Centred Therapy and Psychodynamic approaches, as well as an understanding of the basic principle of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Exploration of humanistic counselling theories through the lens of a Christian perspective is a unique feature of this course and makes it particularly attractive to those who work within the culture and context of the church.

  • Identify ethical considerations and implications for practice

  • Recognise the importance of equality, diversity and inclusive practice

  • Work effectively with suitable clients

  • Display competence in the core skills of counselling and psychotherapy

  • Identify issues of risk with clients

  • Apply counselling and psychotherapy skills in practice, under supervision

  • Exercise appropriate clinical judgement in planning, provision and evaluation of integrative therapy

  • Be reflexive – reflecting on their work and applying their insights to their practice

  • Identify blind spots and professional development needs and be able to self-reflect and to give and receive feedback

  • Reflect critically within a therapeutic context, recognising limits of knowledge, skills and competence and considering self in the therapeutic process

Assessment

Vital Connexions use continuous assessment with feedback from tutors for written work and counselling practice, as well as opportunities for self and peer feedback for group projects and triad work.

Course Dates

The part-time Diploma in Integrative counselling with a Christian perspective is delivered over 2 years part-time, one weekend (Friday and Saturday) per month for 10 months each year (September to June), with by a 4-day summer school at the end of June in year 1. There will also be a requirement of engagement in online learning for 1-2 hours each month in between the weekends.

Who should apply

This programme is designed for people who wish to become professional counsellors, or for those who have an opportunity to use counselling skills as part of their work, either in a paid or voluntary capacity. It is of special interest to those who work within the caring professions, community settings or in pastoral care.

Entry Requirements

Applicants are required to complete an application form, undergo an interview with two core tutors and supply two references. 

Selection procedures will apply, and prospective students must have completed the Vital Connexions Certificate in Counselling from a Christian Perspective, or an equivalent certificate in counselling.

Applicants must be able to:

- Articulate their interest in the therapeutic field and their reasons for pursuing this course of study both on their application form and interview process.

- Produce evidence of prior educational attainment (see application form for further details) and ability to engage in the written assignments.

- Show evidence of emotional maturity and self awareness.

Applications are now open for 2025-2027

Venue

The course will be held at:

T3 Conference Centre,
Moira Road,
Lisburn,
BT28 2RF