MSc in Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy Masters

A Pluralistic Framework for Counselling and Psychotherapy

This module examines the philosophical assumptions underlying a pluralistic approach to counselling. This module aims to facilitate the development of:

• A structure which provides a new approach to conceptualising counselling and psychotherapy in the context of fundamental debates within social science;
• A framework which facilitates the undertaking of empirical research to directly inform practice;
• A depth of understanding of, and ability to apply the Pluralistic Framework to guide practice in a coherent and meaningful way; and
• An acute awareness of cultural diversity in clients and therapists, and the importance of embracing the range of beliefs which endure regarding healing and change.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) is an evidence-based therapeutic approach. ACT balances acceptance and mindfulness-based skills with commitment strategies aimed at helping us move towards what matters most, while practicing acceptance of what is outside our control. The objective of the module is to provide specific training in a contemporary approach to counselling and psychotherapy and to explore its fit with pluralism, neuroscience and client treatment. Learners will be exposed to the six core processes of ACT and, using the framework of Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), they will explore how the therapeutic relationship can be a primary vehicle for change.

Pluralistic Clinical Skills

This module aims to provide learners with the opportunity to develop the pluralistic clinical skills which can be applied in their clinical practice. Learners will be required to demonstrate application of these skills in a real-world setting.

Pluralism in Psychotherapy: Multiple perspectives, multiple possibilities

Psychotherapy continues to evolve and change rapidly, with new ideas and interventions challenging and changing conceptions about what therapy is and should be.  Practitioners are faced with the sometimes daunting task of learning about, evaluating and putting into practice an expanding array of psychotherapeutic theories, practices, and technologies.  In addition, Psychotherapy increasingly draws on frameworks of knowledge from outside the boundaries of the profession – sociological, philosophical, psychological, psychiatric, and political, as well as creative and cultural, understandings an d practices. Concurrently, societal changes impact on how psychotherapy is practiced, from legal and regulatory requirements such as confidentiality and note taking, to technological possibilities for engaging and communicating with clients. The purpose of this module is to grapple with the messiness of pluralistic practice, where there are no truths or certainties, but there are multiple valuable, if partial, perspectives. The range of areas that are included in this module include:

• Understanding identity. Sociological, psychological, psychiatric, socio-political and systemic understanding of mental health and wellness
• Understanding society: Social justice and critical perspectives
• Understanding professional frameworks of practice: multi-disciplinary approaches to health care; technological innovations in clinical practice, and legal and regulatory requirements.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

The purpose of this module is to equip learners with the necessary skills, knowledge and competencies to integrate CBT into their pluralistic practice with clients. Learners will be able to intervene, utilising this framework, applying it to clinical work in a real-world setting.

Advanced Research Methods

The module provides training in practitioner research that will help develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of research methods, research skills and the research literature. It will give students a practical hands-on introduction to the process of counselling and psychotherapy research and an opportunity to develop and refine some of the core skills. It will provide the learner with the knowledge, skills and competence to enable them to carry out master’s level research investigations. A key objective of the module is to provide learners with the knowledge, skills and competence to both critically evaluate complex research studies; and to plan and design counselling and psychotherapy research.