Study counselling and psychotherapy
If you choose to study with the Birkbeck Centre of Counselling, you will become part of our vibrant counselling and psychotherapy community. You will enjoy access to our events and CPD and an invitation to attend our yearly internal conference. You will also have access to the rich programme of talks and lectures within the wider College, the library and a range of study skills support.
Experienced tutors, who are all professionally qualified and practising therapists, can guide you through your personal and professional development journey, whether you are simply curious about counselling, wish to enhance your current skills at work or are hoping to prepare for professional training. Each student can choose a starting point that suits their level of skills and previous study.
We offer a range of counselling and psychotherapy courses at certificate level and postgraduate level, and short courses designed as introductory tasters, in person and online, which are idea ideal if you have no previous knowledge or experience. All of our certificate and short courses act both as standalone courses for personal development or enhancement of skills in your existing career, and as a preparation for clinical training. Short courses are not formally assessed.
Our courses are taught through a mixed programme of lectures, seminars and experiential learning. Using this range of teaching methods, we aim to develop the three core areas for effective counselling practice: knowledge, practical skills and a capacity for self-reflection.
If you believe you already have the training and experience needed to commence a training, you could apply directly to one of our master's courses. In addition to a foundation certificate at Level 4 or above in counselling (or its equivalent), entry to our master's clinical trainings requires substantial professional or clinical experience working with adults or children/adolescents in a supportive capacity, depending on the course you are applying for. These courses lead directly to a professional qualification as a counsellor or psychotherapist with the opportunity for professional registration with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) or the British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC).
A range of study and training modes offer students the opportunity to fit study around work and caring responsibilities. Read more about progression routes and our range of training options.
