Counselling (Integrative)

Please note - This course is currently under review and subject to validation. Please be aware modules may change

The BA (Hons) Counselling degree focuses on integrative counselling. Research has and continues to demonstrate that no single approach to counselling and psychotherapy is more effective than another. Indeed, to meet the diverse needs of their clients, practitioners have shown increased willingness to explore the possibilities of working in diverse ways. Hence the emergence of integration in counselling.

The honours degree covers a broad base in traditional counselling theories, specifically psychodynamic, humanistic, behavioural and physiological approaches. You will have the opportunity to research other alternative therapies. An understanding of several theories provides a framework from which counsellors can assess a client’s behaviour, thoughts, and feelings and help them navigate a client’s journey from diagnosis to post-treatment.

We aim to broaden your experience and knowledge by exploring practice within a variety of contexts and arenas. The aim of the degree programme is to enable you to develop your own personal model of integration, based on your understanding of self, values and beliefs and preferred ways of working.

As part of the exploration of self, you are required to undertake 40 hours of personal therapy throughout the programme – this therapy is self-funded.

You will be supported to undertake 100 hours of professional practice with clients throughout your second and third year of study. The experience gained in practice is fundamental to the completion of a qualificatory practice module in the final year. Those who are unable to undertake the practice module will be transferred to BA (Hons) Theoretical Counselling.

Level 4:

Introduction to Counselling Theory
Foundational Counselling Skills
Professional Development
Self-Awareness

You will be assessed on your readiness to undertake practice and begin placement hours at the end of Level 4.

Level 5:

Integrative Counselling Practice
Philosophical Foundations of Counselling
Post Freudian Theories and Integration
Research Informed Practice
Self-Awareness and Personal Development

Level 6:

Dissertation
Beyond Words
Issues in the Counselling Room
Self-Awareness and Reflective Practice
Professional Practice
Developing Counselling Practice*

• Undertaken instead of Professional Practice where 100 hours of placement have not been achieved with transfer to BA (Hons) Theoretical Counselling

A range of assessment methodologies are utilised and designed to enable you to explore your integrative approach to counselling and career/academic aspirations.

Assessment methods include both formative and summative submissions. The formative assessments focus on fundamental theories and practice, ethical frameworks, self-awareness, group work and contracting providing on-going opportunities to refine and develop your integrative approach and reflections to incorporate into summative assessments.

Summative assessments include group and individual presentations, case studies, written assignments, portfolios and logs, and learning / practice journals.