cpcab level 5 cbt case study

CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Skills and Theory

• Starts October
• Course Type Part Time
• Duration 30 Weeks
• You Need 2 Requirements needed View

Introduction

This qualification is intended for qualified counsellors who want to develop CBT skills and theory as an integral part of their professional Counselling work. It is designed to enhance the employability of counsellors in organisational settings and as independent practitioners. CBT is one of the NICE recommended psychological therapies and counsellors with CBT skills are often favoured above those without in multidisciplinary psychological therapy teams’ especially the Increasing Access to Psychological Therapy (IAPT) teams.

What will I learn

This qualification is for candidates who are already qualified and working as Counselling practitioners & who want to develop their skills in CBT as an integral part of their work. Candidates are expected to be working with clients within a professional framework in order to apply their learning to meet the assessment criteria.

How will I learn

Learning will be predominantly online based with a variety of lectures, role play, skills practice, group work and individual study.

What's next

BA (Hons) in Therapeutic Counselling.

Additional Information

Please note that 'online Counselling' courses do not count as recognised prior learning. You must be qualified as a counsellor to be able to undertake this course.

CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People

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Part-time Courses

Cpcab level 5 diploma cognitive behavioural therapy skills and theory, key details.

• Available at: Online
• Study Mode: Part-time

1 year. Typically 4 hours per week, 1 evening per week, 5pm - 9pm.

Please contact us for further information about applying for this course.

Course Description

This course is suitable for:

• Qualified Counsellors who want to develop Cognitive and Behavioural Therapy (CBT) skills and theory as an integral part of their professional counselling work.
• Qualified Counsellors looking to enhance their employability as counsellors in organisational settings and as independent practitioners by gaining a solid grounding in CBT skills and theory. As CBT is commonly one of the NICE recommended psychological therapies.

For more information about this course call 01492 546 666 ext. 1729 or email [email protected]

Entry Criteria

CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4), Level 4 Higher Education Certificate in Counselling or the Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) equivalent.

Currently working in a paid employment or voluntary sector as a Counsellor.

Access to clients to complete a minimum of 30 hours’ client work working to a Cognitive Behavioural Therapy framework.

Member of a professional Counselling body and have own indemnity insurance.

Access to monthly Counselling supervision.

The overall course content is designed to be participative and the teaching style will reflect this process, in that it will demonstrate a link between counselling theory and practical skills.

The taught sessions will offer a variety of learning activities, with a mixture of:

• Discussions
• Small group work

September and January

Internal assessment: tutor assessment of candidate portfolio.

External assessment: externally assessed case review (3,000-3,500 words)

Proficient (Pass)/Not Proficient (Fail) - candidates must be Proficient in both internal and external assessment to achieve the qualification.

Progression

• CPCAB level 6 therapeutic supervision course.
• Foundation Degree in Counselling.
• BA Hons Degree in Counselling

Other details

Course type: Part-time Courses

Programme Area:

Counselling

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Cpcab level 5 diploma in cognitive behavioural therapeutic skills and theory (rqf).

Awarding organisation: Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body Qualification number: 50084604 Status: Approved Qualification Type: Occupational Qualification Sector Subject Area: Health and social care Level: Level 5

Please note that providers must check the availability of the qualification with the awarding organisation.

For funding and further information, please see FALA and QWS

For further information about Performance Tables please see GOV.UK website

CPCAB Level 5 Courses

Cpcab level 5 diploma in psychotherapeutic counselling.

This one-year part-time qualification is intended to give you the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as a self-employed counsellor in independent practice. It will also equip you to take on a senior counselling role in an organisational context where client assessment, referral and routine evaluation are part of the role.

You’ll gain training on how to establish and maintain an appropriate framework for independent autonomous practice; how to carry out client assessments (including identifying and referring clients with severe and complex mental health problems); and practice autonomously as a professional counsellor in one or more settings. You will also be expected to undertake a minimum of 40 hours of personal counselling by the end of the course. This can include hours undertaken prior to the start of the course but at least 10 hours of personal therapy must be undertaken during the training year itself.

Placement You’ll need to achieve a minimum of 60 hours formally contracted counselling (one-to-one), including client assessment.

Course Assessment Throughout the course you will be expected to build an ongoing portfolio of coursework, undergo observations of counselling skills practice and assessment, and complete an externally assessed case review.

Entry requirements You’ll need to have successfully completed a CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) or Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) equivalent (minimum 420 Guided Learning Hours), in addition to appropriate pre-TC-L4 (or equivalent) training. You will also need to complete and application form and interview to establish your suitability for the course.

Successful completion of this Diploma course means that you will be able to work as a counsellor in a range of job and career opportunities, which include but are not limited to: • An autonomous counsellor in private practice or agency settings. • Work as a senior counsellor within a counselling agency.

Graduates may also choose to diversify into the area of teaching counselling within an FE or HE context (additional suitable teaching experience or qualifications may be required).

Course Dates and Times:

Wednesday 2nd october 2024.

9:30am – 12:30pm

Wanstead House

CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People (CYP-L5)

This post qualifying qualification is designed to give you the specialist knowledge, skills and competences to work as a counsellor with children and young people aged 11-18.

This qualification will enable successful candidates to work as counsellors with this age group in a range of job and career opportunities, which include but are not limited to:

• A counsellor employed by a School or College
• A counsellor in an agency or organisation which specialise in counselling children and young people
• A private counsellor working for an external organisation such as a school, youth club, wellness/mental health setting
• An ‘adult’ counsellor in independent practice wishing to extend their work to cover this age range
• A youth worker in the community
• An outreach worker with adolescents/teenagers

You’ll gain training on how to work safely, legally and ethically with children and young people; tailor the therapeutic work to meet the age, development stage and ability of the child or young person; use theory, research and skills to work effectively with children and young people; work collaboratively, creatively and flexibly with children and young people.

Placement and Personal Counselling

You are required to complete a minimum of 60 hours one-to-one, formally contracted counselling with children and young people (CYP) and a minimum of 20 hours of personal counselling.

Throughout the course you will be expected to build an ongoing portfolio of coursework, undergo observations of counselling skills practice and assessment, and complete an externally assessed case review.

Entry Requirements

You’ll need to have successfully completed a CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) or Recognised Prior Learning (RPL) equivalent (minimum 420 Guided Learning Hours), in addition to appropriate pre-TC-L4 (or equivalent) training. You will also need to complete and application form and interview to establish your suitability for the course.

Successful completion of this Diploma course means that you will be able to work as a counsellor in a range of job and career opportunities, which include but are not limited to:

• An autonomous counsellor in private practice or agency settings.
• Work as a senior counsellor within a counselling agency.

Friday 18th October 2024

9:30am – 2:00pm

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CPCAB Level 5 – Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling Course

Our level 5 course

Looking to take your counselling career to the next step? Perhaps you want to start your own practice and become self-employed?

If so, our CPCAB Level 5 course is perfect for you!

Our level 5 course will add to your existing counselling skills and knowledge, providing you with all the additional know-how that you need to take the next step!

So, whether you want to start your own practice, earn a promotion within an agency, specialise in psychotherapy or simply improve your marketability and salary prospects as a counsellor, our course can help you get there.

At Connect, we believe that counselling is best learned through doing and not through boring lectures and PowerPoint presentations!

Therefore, all our courses are practical in nature, using exercises and discussions to aid learning, encouraging you to practice your skills as you progress. This ‘experiential’ learning is vital if you are to progress into a role as a practising therapeutic counsellor.

Our experienced tutors are committed to supporting you throughout the course, providing guidance and assistance at every step.

So, if you’re looking to become self-employed and want the best advice and training available, our level 5 course provides the ideal course for you.

“I am just finishing my second year (level 3) with Astranti Connect and have been so incredibly happy with my studies and time learning here. We have had an incredible, inspirational and thoroughly knowledgeable tutor with whom we have all come to greatly respect (and adore) and as a group we constantly remark about how far we have all come both in personal development and knowledge. I could not recommend highly enough the experience I have had here and am incredibly appreciative of the professionalism, high quality of teaching and support and also the delivery of our course .”

CPCAB Level 3 student , March 2023

“I have really enjoyed this course. The online format has made it possible for me to attend. The teaching has been clear and supportive. I’ve been surprised at how in-depth this level 2 course has been – I feel really well equipped to continue down this path and learn more. “

CPCAB Level 2 student , March 2023

Focused on you

Experienced counsellors supporting you at every stage

Small group sizes so tutors are always on hand

Added to an active online community for peer support

Flexible study options

Online live teaching

Daytime and evening courses are available

Pay with an instalment option to spread payments

Study with confidence

Course approved by CPCAB and recognised by BACP

Over 20 years of teaching experience

Supported by the Astranti group with a Trustpilot rating of 4.8

What you’ll learn…

Our level 5 course prepares you with the right practical and theoretical skills to continue progressing within your counselling career , whether that’s starting your own practice or gaining a promotion.

Here are just a few of the skills that you will pick up along the way…

“I have really enjoyed the course I have completed. The materials, content and tutor support were all excellent. The feedback provided was timely and constructive. I would happily recommend Astrani Connect, so much so I have already signed up for the next level!”

CPCAB Level 2 student , October 2022

Identify and comprehend the business requirements of running your own practice. 

Understand how to market yourself effectively as a counsellor to attract new clients.

Learn how to work safely, legally and ethically as an independent counsellor .

Plan your own programme for continuing professional development and advancing skills.

How our courses compare

At Astranti Connect our aim is to provide the best and most comprehensive CPCAB-accredited counselling courses in the UK, and we are continually developing our courses and training our tutors to achieve that goal.

When you’re comparing our course to others, it’s important to consider what our course offers compared to other typical courses. Here’s a comparison against typical course offered by a local college:

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Accreditation

• Wellbeing Registration
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Are you a member yet? Membership is open to all and is the first step towards accreditation.

• Case Study Marking Criteria
• Close Supervision Guidelines
• Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapist Accreditation FAQs
• Core Professions
• Knowledge Skills and Attitudes

Guidance for assessing case studies

The BABCP Minimum Training standards require that at least four training cases must be presented and formally assessed as case studies. Case studies must meet our standards for formal assessment listed below.

The BABCP case study marking criteria (formerly known as Criteria for Evaluating Academic Case studies 2013) can be downloaded here .

Case studies are normally assessed as part of post-graduate CBT training. However, not all courses include all four we require. If this applies to you, or you do not have evidence of all the passed case studies, this document provides guidance on both how to write and assess case studies marked independently for accreditation. 

Details of Training Cases

The criteria for BABCP CBT Practitioner Accreditation are set out in our Minimum Training Standards (MTS 2021) - 

• at least four of the eight training cases must be presented and formally assessed as case studies, a further three must have received close supervision
• written case studies should be between 2000-4000 words (or 3-5000 if extended).
• the case studies can cover the same cases that are closely supervised or they can be different
• two of your formally assessed case studies may be delivered as a ‘live’ case report or presentation instead of a written study – if so, there should be supporting information such as slides or a written summary as part of the formal assessment
• case studies must be marked as a ‘pass’ 
• the marker must have experience of marking CBT case studies in an academic setting
• the completed mark sheet for the case study should be submitted along with an application for accreditation

A Suitable Assessor

The assessor should be accredited by BABCP or be a CBT therapist who is trained and qualified in CBT to postgraduate diploma level or equivalent (or would meet Minimum Training Standards ). 

In addition, they should have experience of marking as a lecturer or tutor on an academic post-graduate CBT training course or equivalent. The assessor may, however, currently be independent of an academic institution.

If possible, we recommend that you contact assessors from your course, local courses or through other contacts. Otherwise, you can download a list of independent assessors  here .  It will be your responsibility to check that they still meet the criteria for a suitable assessor and to negotiate fees, timescale and, if appropriate, reasonable adjustments with them.

Assessors are asked to confirm that the case study has passed– this means that it is of an acceptable standard for a competent CBT therapist. Feedback should be given to the candidate and expectations of quality, content, layout, writing style and structure should be of a similar standard as case studies marked in a post-graduate programme.

Reasonable adjustments should be made where appropriate where the applicant can provide evidence of relevant additional needs.

The case study should demonstrate theoretical understanding and a research-based rationale for choosing a specific approach and knowledge of alternative options, which is consistent with evidence-based CBT practice. There should be a reflective element which identifies new learning.

All the areas described below should be covered where relevant.

Evidence of structured assessment, including the following areas -

• risk assessment
• current circumstances
• details of current presenting problem(s) and/or diagnosis, including co-morbidity and reason for seeking treatment at this point
• relevant personal history including development of the problem, previous treatment(s) and current coping
• use of appropriate standardised psychometric and idiographic measures
• suitability for CBT and socialisation to the model
• identified treatment goals
• assessment of diversity and relevant socio-cultural factors

Literature Review

• detailed description, explanation and critical evaluation of relevant CBT model(s) with rationale for choice of model
• knowledge of evidence base underpinning the theoretical model and chosen intervention(s)
• any adaptations to the model needed for the case

Case Formulation

The report should outline a coherent, concise formulation developed collaboratively over treatment with explicit input from client and include- 

• evidence of individualised formulation at maintenance or cross-sectional level in keeping with diagnosis specific or generic CBT model, which is appropriate to the presentation and justified by the evidence base
• explanation of links between elements in maintenance cycle
• diagrams of maintenance cycles (and longitudinal formulation, if appropriate)
• identification of a trigger or critical incident/explanation of onset of problems (precipitating factors)
• underlying beliefs/assumptions (predisposing cognitive vulnerability factors) and explanation of links between these and maintenance cycles
• explanation of how past events may have contributed to/reinforced the beliefs
• awareness of any missing elements

Course of Therapy and Outcome

• Identification of theoretical aims of treatment according to the model used, and in relation to client’s presenting difficulties and goals for treatment
• treatment plan explicitly linked to formulation
• clear identification and description of the main phases of treatment and detail on at least two specific change processes, including the cognitive and/or behavioural interventions utilised and the rationale for their use
• examples of written materials used (may be in appendices)
• justification of any deviation from model or protocol used
• identification of client’s learning
• continued refinement of formulation (if necessary)
• evaluation of outcome including progress towards treatment goals
• changes in psychometric and idiographic measures, changes to client’s general functioning and client’s evaluation of therapy relapse prevention plan
• reflection on the progress of therapy and outcome of therapy, and the therapist’s learning. Including identification of therapist and client factors that helped or hindered therapy, use of supervision, the role of the therapeutic relationship and likelihood of treatment gains being maintained 
• comment on the therapeutic alliance (interpersonal process) and if relevant how difficulties in treatment or the therapeutic relationship are understood in terms of the formulation, and how these were managed
• identification of what therapist may have done differently given another chance
• broader implications for the model or evidence base
• reflection on diversity and relevant socio-cultural factors

Structure, Presentation, References

The overall presentation should include -

• coherent structure with logical flow 
• clarity of communication, grammar and spelling
• use of diagrams, tables and/or figures where appropriate
• quality of referencing in text and in reference list
• limited, judicious use of appendices 

Additional guidance for verbally presented case studies

The criteria for written case reports above should be applied to marking verbally presented case studies, including the assessor criteria and the requirement for the report to pass. In addition -

• the presentation should include the opportunity for assessor(s) to give feedback and ask questions
• the presentation should be a minimum of 30 minutes’ duration (which may include the time for questions)
• there should be supporting information such as slides or a written summary
• any marking criteria that relate to the written aspect of the presentation should be used to assess the verbal aspect of a verbally presented report e.g. adhering to the word count would be equivalent to adhering to the allocated time
• as with written reports, the presentation should meet the standards expected of a healthcare profession with a post-graduate level qualification e.g. accurate and detailed slides, clarity of expression, logical sequence covering the areas outlined above, clarity and coherence of the content, respect for client confidentiality, effective use of tables and figures, lack of grammatical and spelling errors, appropriate links to evidence base and referencing 

Marking and Feedback

A BABCP case study feedback sheet is available here . It is optional and assessors can use a different system of ensuring and demonstrating that the case studies have met all of the requirements. 

A copy of the feedback sheet should be sent to the applicant for them to include with their accreditation application.

If the case study is not marked as a pass, please provide the applicant with constructive feedback. 

We may request a copy of the report in order to moderate the marking. 

151 – Benefits of Getting a Level 5 Diploma in Counselling

Working with Conflicting Ethical Frameworks – Counselling Autistic Clients

In episode 151 of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Ken Kelly and Rory Lees-Oakes discuss the challenge of working with conflicting ethical frameworks. ‘Check-In with CPCAB’ then looks at the possible benefits of getting a Level 5 diploma in counselling. Finally, in ‘Practice Matters’, Rory interviews Lisa Cromar about counselling autistic people.

Working with Conflicting Ethical Frameworks (starts at 2.55 mins)

A question that arises regularly in the Counselling Tutor Facebook group is how we can work with conflicting ethical frameworks; this is a common assignment question for students of counselling and psychotherapy.

Examples of work environments in which there may be conflicting ethical frameworks would be:

• school counselling, where the school’s code of conduct may not be consistent with, say, the Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions (published by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, 2018)
• drug and addiction agencies, where confidentiality may not apply to the taking of street drugs (for reasons of physical safety of the clients).

If you encounter a conflict in ethical frameworks, it can be challenging to work out which to abide by, and how to blend the requirements of each. Rory and Ken suggest the following tips:

• Ensure that you fully read and understand both ethical frameworks, asking questions if you are unsure about any part of these.
• Sort the components of each into ‘must-dos’ (i.e. essential parts that you must abide by) and ‘nice-ifs’ (i.e. parts that are negotiable).
• Explain to colleagues your own must-dos, and listen to theirs and their rationale for these.
• Blend both into a contract that fits the essential requirements of the essential parts of the two frameworks, remembering that sometimes appropriate adjustments can be justified to best serve the client.
• Evidence your approach in writing.
• Do discuss any such conflicts with your clinical supervisor.
• Ensure too that you are familiar with the Caldicott Principles .

Rory has written a checklist on working with conflicting ethical frameworks. This is available here, or you can get hold of it through  Counselling Study Resource (CSR).

Check-In with CPCAB: Benefits of Getting a Level 5 Diploma in Counselling (starts at 17.10 mins)

Rory talks to Heather Price (Senior Counselling Professional) at CPCAB (Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) about the reasons for counsellors deciding to top up their level 4 diploma with a level 5 qualification.

In general, Heather suggests working for a while (at least a year) with your level 4 diploma before considering getting a level 5 diploma in counselling.

Some counsellors choose to take the CPCAB’s Level 5 Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapeutic Skills and Theory , in order to specialise and add another modality to their offering.

Other counsellors, meanwhile, choose to take the Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling , which is especially suited to those who wish to work in private practice.

Each of these two courses takes one academic year to complete.

The Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling focuses particularly on assessment of clients (and includes practical experience in this). It also covers many other areas that support private-practice work, for example:

• creating and working with cancellation policies
• taking payments
• setting and maintaining boundaries in independent practice
• safe working
• writing reports for other professionals.

You can find more information about CPCAB on its website . CPCAB is the UK’s only awarding body run by counsellors for counsellors.

Counselling Autistic Clients (starts at 30.15 mins)

In this segment of the Counselling Tutor Podcast – aimed at qualified practitioners – Rory talks to counsellor Lisa Cromar about the lecture she delivered recently for Counsellor CPD.

This lecture looks at the differences that an autistic person may bring, what it is like to live with autism, and how to work effectively with autistic clients.

Rory and Lisa look at the coming-of-age of neurodiversity, as society’s recognition and understanding increases of the fact that people view and process the world in different ways.

In particular, they discuss:

• preferred ways of referring to autistic people, and the importance of individual choice in this within the counselling context
• aspects of counselling that you may need to adjust to meet the needs of autistic clients, particularly modes of communication
• creative ways of working with autistic clients
• useful techniques to use in counselling autistic people.

You can hear Lisa’s lecture at Counsellor CPD , which is a brand-new service aimed at qualified counsellors. There, we have over 150 hours of formal lectures, all linked to learning outcomes, delivered by experts in the field, and with downloadable slide packs and CPD certificates.

Free Handout Download

Working with Conflicting Ethical Frameworks

Links and Resources

Counselling Tutor Facebook group

Counselling Tutor Facebook page

Counselling Tutor website

Counselling Study Resource

Counsellor CPD

Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide

Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide

Spotted out-of-date info or broken links? Kindly let us know the page where you found them. Email: [email protected]

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Level 5 CPCAB Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling

Need help? Submit your details and someone from our team will be in touch to help you with any questions on anything from course content to financial advice.

Unsure? Find Out More

Who is it for?

Please note the fee may be subject to change for the 2024/25 academic year.

The qualification is an ideal opportunity to gain a higher-level qualification, recognised by professional bodies, that will develop your practical skills and knowledge in your chosen specialist area, and builds on the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma.  The qualification is a way of gaining vital knowledge that can prepare you for a range of counselling roles and the quality tuition and guidance that is provided throughout the course will steer you in the right direction.

The course is run over a full academic year either one day per week ( to be confirmed) or 12 weekends over the year (to be confirmed).

Learners must be aged 19 or over.

CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) or the recognised prior learning (RPL) equivalent which equates to 420 guided learning hours, in addition to the appropriate pre-TC-L4 training. 

What does the course involve?

This qualification is designed to give learners the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as self-employed counsellors in independent practice. It also equips learners to take on a senior counselling role in an organisational context where client assessment, referral and routine evaluation are part of the role.

How is the course assessed?

Students must be proficient in both internal and external assessment and meet the qualification requirements including the placement hours to achieve the qualification.

Internal assessment will be through the following:

• A learning review
• 2 written assignments (3000-3500 words)
• Supervision record
• Client record (60 hour)
• Review of 15-minute transcript of clinical work
• Self-review
• Therapy record (40 hours)

Tutor Observation:

• 1 Tutor-observed counselling practice session
• 1 case presentation
• 1 Supervisor’s report
• Peer feedback

External Assessment:

• A structured case review (3000-3500 words) which is sent to CPCAB for assessment.
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6 more courses like this

• Level 2 Counselling Taster
• Level 2 SEG Award in Counselling Concepts
• Level 3 SEG Awards Certificate in Counselling Skills
• Foundation Degree in Science in Counselling Theory and Practice
• Level 4 CPCAB Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
• Level 6 CPCAB Certificate in Counselling Supervision

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Counselling: Psychotherapeutic - Level 5 Diploma (CPCAB)

ABOUT THE COURSE

This course is accredited by CPCAB.

This course has been designed by CPCAB to provide you with a comprehensive and in-depth view of integrative counselling, which is grounded in practice, professional, personal development and theory. It will provide you with the opportunity to develop the safe practice of the skills of counselling, within an agency setting or private practice, equipping you to take on a senior counselling role in an organisational context where client assessments, referrals and routine evaluation are part of the role. Throughout the course, you will evolve your core counselling qualities, which are central to the work of the counsellor, broadening and deepening your responsiveness to the varieties of human experience.

For information on our Higher Education policies including admissions, fees, and student contracts, please see the links below:

• Admissions Policy
• Complaints Policy  
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy
• Fees Policy
• HE Student Contract
• Student Protection Plan

For our full list of policies, governance and fees please see our website  Capital City College Group (capitalccg.ac.uk) .

WHAT WILL I STUDY?

Topics covered can include: 

• Working ethically and safely as an independent practitioner/senior agency counsellor
• Manage the therapeutic relationship
• Work with difference and diversity
• Work within a user-centred approach as an independent practitioner/senior agency counsellor
• Use self-awareness intentionally within counselling work
• Work within a coherent theoretical framework
• Work self-reflectively as an independent practitioner/senior agency counsellor

WHAT WILL I NEED?

You will need:

• Counselling - Level 2
• Counselling - Level 3
• Counselling - Level 4
• To be a member of a relevant professional body (BACP/UKCP) 
• To be a registered member of the BACP

We request evidence of all qualifications. All applicants must have an assessment and interview to confirm that the course is suitable for them.

Demand for this course is very high, we cannot guarantee all applicants a place on the course.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED?

You will need to refer to three types of coursework in your portfolio - documents, tutor observation and testimony - but what does that mean?  Here are a few examples:

• Personal Learning Contract - these are your personal learning goals
• Learning Review (Learning Journal)  - This is a regular exploration of your learning - your reflections on the input, discussions, experiences and readings for the course
• Self-Review - Formal review of your learning where you summarise what you have learnt on the course so far, there a few opportunities over the year for this to happen
• Essay - Essays are assignments that allow you to explore a topic which is either prescribed by your tutor or chosen by yourself. It is your opportunity to show your understanding of the topic, together with discussing and analysing any associated skills that you have developed
• Tutor Observation - your tutor will provide you with feedback when they observe you practice skills, make a presentation or participate in group activities
• Testimony - Feedback from your peers - this enables you to receive constructive comments from colleagues. It needs to be both verbal and written - so that you can reflect on your learning review and use the comments to help develop your skills. This should also be used to inform your self-review

There is also an Externally Assessed Case Review (3,000 - 3,500 words) - you must pass this alongside your portfolio to be deemed to be proficient.

WHAT WILL IT COST?

Adults - level 5 and level 6.

If you will be aged 19+ before the start date of your course and you plan to study a Further Education course at Level 5 or Level 6, you may have to pay fees.

You may be eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan .

Please see here for the documents you will need to show us.

Some courses are free of charge as they are funded by the Greater London Authority (Mayor of London). Please contact us to confirm if you are eligible.

Some courses will have other associated costs, such as specialist materials and trips. Many of our students are eligible for financial support, see here for details.

Personal Counselling - a minimum of 40 Hours of personal counselling by the end of the course.  This can include hours undertaken before the start of the course but at least 10 hours of personal therapy must be undertaken during the training year itself. 

Clinical Supervision - this is not always provided by the agencies where you complete client work and you may need to pay.  This can be either group or one-to-one supervision - as per the supervision ratio requirements of your chosen ethical framework or professional membership association.

Tuition Fees: £811

WHAT CAN I DO AFTER?

Progression can be to:

• Foundation Degree in Counselling
• CPCAB Level 6 Certificate in Therapeutic Counselling Supervision (TCSU - L6) plus a recommended minimum of 450 supervised practice hours

Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling

Guided learning hours.

This qualification is for counsellors who have acquired the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling or its equivalent. Practitioners will enhance their knowledge and skills of counselling and psychotherapy at depth while developing their own philosophy of practice.

This course is also for practitioners who want to establish and maintain an appropriate framework for independent practice; practice as a senior counsellor within an agency; to carry out client assessments (including identifying and referring clients with severe and complex mental health problems). This course will help prepare practitioners working towards accreditation with BACP or UKCP.

This course has been mapped by CPCAB to UKCP requirements and combined with TCL4 can provide a pathway for individual practitioner accreditation with UKCP as an Accredited Psychotherapist

Our success rates for all courses are ‘outstanding’ at 95% to 100%, and consistently over the last 12 years performed well above national benchmarks.

Personal counselling:

Candidates need to have completed a minimum of 40 hours of personal counselling by the end of the course. This can include hours undertaken prior to the start of the course but at least 10 hours of personal therapy must be undertaken during the training year itself.

Client work requirements:

A minimum of 60 hours formally-contracted counselling (one-to-one) including client assessment.

Supervision requirements:

Supervision – in the form of either group or one-to-one supervision – to meet BACP minimum requirements.

Assessment:

Tutor assessment of candidate portfolio evidencing minimum assessment requirements.

Externally assessed case review (3,000 –3,500 words).

Candidates must have obtained the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) or equivalent.

For internal progressing applicants from our Level 4 course we require a tutor reference of recommendation.

For new applicants to CPTA we require a reference from your counselling supervisor and/or course tutor commenting on your suitability for this level of counselling training.

Successful candidates may progress onto further training in counselling and psychotherapy and work towards professional accreditation with the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy (BACP).

Progression onto Level 6 in Therapeutic Counselling Supervision provided you have acquired at least one year (part-time) of post CBTL5 or PCL5 supervised clinical experience, or two years post TCL4. CPCAB in partnership with the Open University offer a progression beyond the Level 5 Diploma in CBT to Foundation Degree with a modulated programme of study.

Universities will consider successful applicants for their qualifications in Counselling and Psychology with Accreditation for Prior Experience & Learning (APEL).

The Bedfordshire Centre for Therapeutic Studies

Cpcab level 5 dip. in somatic-informed trauma therapy.

• Bringing together Psychodynamic, trauma and somatic theory and practice
• We offer both in-person and fully online options, both with a self-study element

This post-graduate training brings together psychodynamic theory and cutting-edge trauma research and practice within the growing field of post-traumatic growth and somatic psychology.  It will both deepen and broaden your work with clients supporting you to assess and work with a range of complex client presentations, working safely and effectively.

Trauma research, theory and practice is now underpinning the work we do as therapists and  it is vital for counsellors to have an in depth understanding of trauma along with an experiential knowledge of somatics and body-mind theory which supports the bottom-up work to trauma recovery.

This training will equip you with the knowledge and skills to integrate psychodynamic and trauma theory into your practice to enable you to:-

• work competently with relational, developmental and transgenerational trauma.
• understand how to use trauma-informed skills to pace your clients, ground them and work safely with trauma within the Three-Phased Trauma Model. This will include the use of grounding techniques, breathwork, embodiment and subtle yet effective movement practices for both hyper and hypro arousal.
• Understand Complex PTSD through understanding and applying psychodynamic theory to your practice including the theory of object relations, Jungian psychology, attachment theory, transference and countertransference. Along with trauma theory, this will help you to understand and work with your clients who show traits of narcissism, echoism, personality disorders and other complex mental health issues. 
• Work with trauma and minority groups
• Develop a deeper capacity to relate at depth with your clients, with their felt sense and somatics;
• Carry out assessments competently
• To deepen your reflexivity as a developing practitioner.

You will be given access to over 50 hours of self-study material to work through in your own time.  The psychodynamic, embodiment and trauma theory will largely be delivered via our self-study portal with learning via:

• Video presentations
• Podcasts (incl. counsellors discussing topics like the shadow & object relations)
• Creative practices
• Reflective personal development exercises
• Discussion forums

You will be required to commit to a minimum of 3 hours of self-study per week up to 6 depending on your learning style); this theory will be further embedded and built upon within the workshops and reflective practice sessions. 

See course brochure for course contents. Reflective practice groups

These will take place on a regular basis where you’ll be in smaller groups with an allocated tutor.  This group session is where theory and practice will come together.  Sometimes there will be a topic to discuss (for assessment purposes) in relation to your client work and at other times you or a peer will present a client for whole group learning.

Student-led presentations

You will have the opportunity to research and present on a topic of your choice on the subject of trauma.  These are usually carried out in pairs or small groups and presented during the in-person workshops.  Approximately two-thirds of the way into the course your tutor will start discussing this with you, where you’ll choose a topic and be given a time-slot to present to the group, as a mini lesson, of upto 1 hour in length. Additional requirements

To be in supervised client work working with a minimum of 2 clients a week.

To commit to a regular embodiment practice which might include breathwork, yoga for vagal tone, yoga nidra, voicework.

To be a member of a professional body Assessment

Assessment is carried out via the following means:-

• Monthly reflective journals
• One written case-study
• Client presentations in RPG
• Peer-led presentation on a trauma topic
• Tutor and Peer observations
• Self-review on embodiment practice and client work

Course entry Requirements

• To hold a minimum of a Level 4 diploma in counselling
• To have a minimum of 150 client hours
• To have completed a minimum of 40 hours personal therapy
• To have worked through your own trauma sufficiently to undertake a course of this nature
• To have the capacity to take responsibility for own safety and capacity to take responsibility for own reactions, experiences and feelings
• To have sufficient external support and to be prepared to work through anything that arises during the training in supervision or personal therapy
• Complete application form
• Submit a supervisor reference and ID
• Attend interview
• Upon acceptance hold place with a £395 + VAT deposit

L5 2022 group – ending Mandala

What our students say

“I’m am so pleased to have been on this journey of the very first trauma level 5. It was life changing giving a third dimension to my therapeutic practice I feel confident and safe when work with trauma clients and this is due to the learning and support from this course. I have also found my own embodiment practice has given opportunity to heal and move forward in life.” Lesley

“This experience has been truly amazing for me personally and professionally. I feel the course is worth it’s weight in gold. I have learned so much about myself, my personal trauma, and I feel rid of a lot of my trauma. I feel like this course has helped a lot in my career as a counsellor and it  has given me some scope to look further into trauma, the anatomy, history of trauma and push myself out there to be self employed and has a specialist area to work in.” Karen

“Thoroughly enjoyable, informative and interesting course on Somatic Informed Trauma Therapy packed full of great content.  An enriching experience both personally and professionally.  Great blend of online, in class and self study, catering for all learning styles of reading, videos, podcasts and lots of experiential and creative exercises. Led by wonderful, inspiring and supportive tutors.  It was a great experience, I highly recommend this course!!

Both tutors are very knowledgeable, approachable, supportive, enthusiastic and interested in everyone’s individual and overall group learning experience, I think they enjoyed the experience as much as we all did! What i really liked was how they brought ‘themselves’ into the delivery of classes both in person and online which i feel enriched the experience even more. Classes were well planned with a great mix of learning through presentations, experiential, creative, individual and group exercises and practice.” Sharon

2022 ending Mandala

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• Qualifications

Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (PC-L5)

This qualification is designed to give learners the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as self-employed counsellors in independent practice. It also equips learners to take on a senior counselling role in an organisational context where client assessment, referral and routine evaluation are part of the role.

You must have obtained our Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling or its equivalent.

Read section 5 of the Specification for further information.

The qualification is eligible in England for Advanced Learner Loans (19+).

Candidates in England may also be able to access funding according to individual entitlement criteria (e.g. related to age and/or employment status and/or prior qualifications).

For more detailed see funding information .