Diploma Programme
This diploma in counselling offers an integrative and dialogical approach. The core counselling approaches presented are: Person-Centred Counselling, Psychodynamic Therapy, Existential Therapy, and aspects of the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) model. The course includes a Christian perspective as part of the core theoretical model, and students are encouraged to explore the models presented by key authors and theorists, observing them through the lens of the Christian worldview, and integrating into practice.
Award
Those who are successful in completing this course, exit the programme with a recognised Diploma in Integrative Counselling with a Christian perspective.
Over the years many students have gone on to be accredited by British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP), Association of Christian Counselling (ACC), Irish Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)*. Connexions Training is a registered member of BACP and ACC.
Following completion of the diploma, students have the option of undertaking further education to obtain a BSc (Hons) Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy through other higher educational colleges including Waverley Abbey (England), PCI College (Belfast and Dublin), IICP (Dublin) and ICPPD (South of Ireland).
*Please note, in order to practice in the Republic of Ireland, students must have a recognised, relevant degree in counselling and can be guided by IACP. See https://iacp.ie/
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
Connexions Training offers continuous assessment of skills and learning 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 3-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 a relevant Certificate in Counselling, or have other relevant qualifications within the field of humanities or caring.
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.
A non-refundable application fee of £50.00 is required to process course applications. Upon receipt of a completed online application, students will be invited to attend an interview to demonstrate suitability for the course. References are also required.
There is usually a high demand for the Diploma Programme in Northern Ireland so early application is always advisable.
Prospective students are encouraged to do the Certificate in Counselling as a prerequisite for the Diploma, or have relevant existing qualifications in the field of counselling, pastoral care or social sciences.
If you wish to apply for the next diploma in Northern Ireland, please apply here
To download the Diploma Info Booklet, click here.
Venue
The course will be held at:
T3 Conference Centre,
Moira Road,
Lisburn,
BT28 2RF