No previous experience is necessary to embark on the course. A willingness to participate and openness to learning is encouraged.

This programme offers an access opportunity if you wish to return to education and is a springboard for anyone wishing to follow professional training in this field.

Our adult learners frequently describe the course as ‘a life-changing experience’, which many see as the most valuable outcome of taking the course.

Interested candidates are required to complete the application form. There may be a brief interview (which may be conducted over the telephone/virtually).

On successful completion of this course you will be able to

• communicate more effectively in your relationships
• use counselling skills to develop more authentic relationships and to express yourself
• reflect on your ability to change and make decisions and choices in your life
• discuss the history and development of counselling and psychotherapy
• practice mindfulness to support and improve your mental health
• own and appreciate your self-worth as a person in your life journey

Personal Development Module: adult learners are required to participate in personal awareness exercises, tutorials and discussions on – mental health issues, self-esteem, assertiveness training and interpersonal communication skills.

Introduction to Theory Module: learners are introduced to some of the primary theoretical approaches in counselling, including Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural and Transpersonal Approaches.

Counselling Skills and Practice Module: learners are introduced to basic counselling skills through experiential practice.

Progression

Those who complete this Certificate have the option, subject to successful application and interview, to apply for entry onto the ICPPD’S Level 8 Bachelor of Arts degree (Hons) in Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy.

The programme is delivered by experienced and supportive facilitators who are accredited counsellors/psychotherapists.

ICPPD adopts an adult education approach to group learning; there is a strong emphasis on self-directed learning and on active participation and group discussion.

The course is highly interactive and combines personal development, counselling skills, and an introduction to some of the main theoretical approaches in counselling and psychotherapy.

The programme is supported by a learning environment that is experiential and highly interactive with:

• • Tutorials
  • Group learning through discussion
  • Personal awareness exercises
  • Exercises in pairs, small groups and large groups
  • Self-directed learning via various tutor-recommended reading material, video, DVD, and internet material relevant to the individual modules.

Academic Resources
ICPPD uses Moodle, a virtual learning environment (VLE), to disseminate class material and share course-related resources, as well as news, assignment details, discussion fora, etc.
The College also provides access to EBSCO e-Library, e-Journal and other resources through Moodle. These resources facilitate the support of learners at outreach centres, and through out-of-hours times.

Assessments for this course are

• A 1,500-word reflection on your personal growth
• A 1,500-word essay on a theory presented
• Participation in a 10-minute counselling skills’ interview

Participants who successfully complete the programme will be awarded ICPPD’s Certificate in

Introduction to Holistic Counselling and Psychotherapy