Find out more about studying PgDip Cognitive Behavioural Therapy at University of Staffordshire? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Postgraduate Diploma
Stoke-on-Trent Campus
Full Time
Sep 2027
1 Year
The Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy develops your theoretical knowledge, reflective abilities and practical skills to enable you to become a skilled and independent practitioner with adults with common mental health difficulties such as anxiety and depression. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is a type of psychotherapy based on the theory that psychological symptoms develop and are maintained as a result of the interaction between the thoughts, emotions and behavioural responses of the individual. CBT is an evidenced-based psychological therapy recommended by NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) as a first-line intervention for many mental health disorders. In CBT, the therapist and client work collaboratively to identify and change thoughts and behaviours that may be maintaining symptoms. This course has been developed as part of the national Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) initiative, which aims to increase the availability of qualified high-intensity cognitive behavioural therapists. This course is a collaborative venture between the University and staff from the South Staffordshire and Shropshire Foundation NHS Trust. This collaboration provides excellent opportunities to integrate theory and practice within the award. The learning outcomes for the course are based on national guidance regarding the Improving Access to Psychological Therapists (IAPT) Curriculum for High Intensity Therapists and the requirements of the British Association of Behavioural and Cognitive Psychotherapies (BABCP). The course has consistently achieved 100% student satisfaction in the Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey.
In this module you will learn the underpinning history, science and theories of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). You will build on this learning by developing and applying your skills to critically analyse the development of CBT through its empirical research. You will develop your understanding of the context and framework of mental health service structure and the CBT Practitioner role within these structures. You will learn how to apply the underpinning theory of CBT in clinical practice. You will develop your skills in the essential principles for CBT structure, assessment and formulation. Linking the empirical basis of CBT to clinical practice is a key principle as a CBT Practitioner. You will develop and apply skills in use of empirical measures used to monitor CBT processes and outcomes in your clinical practice.
In this module you will learn about CBT treatment interventions and treatment process competencies when working with common mental health problems. You will build theoretical knowledge and understanding of depression and anxiety disorders, including critical analysis of empirical research in cognitive theories and behavioural theories and their application in clinical practice.You will learn empirically grounded treatment intervention protocols and their application. You will develop and implement CBT treatment intervention plans for individuals with depression or anxiety disorders in your clinical practice. The module covers CBT treatment interventions recommended in clinical guidance for specific disorders including Depression, Panic Disorder, Specific Phobias, Generalised Anxiety Disorder, Social Anxiety, Illness Anxiety, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Body Dysmorphia, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).You will develop your knowledge of CBT treatment processes and their application. You will develop your knowledge and skills in the facilitation of client learning through treatment, maintenance of new learning from treatment and relapse prevention.
In this module you will learn the professional, clinical and therapeutic competences required as a CBT Practitioner in line with BABCP minimum training standards (MTS) and the BABCP Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics. You will develop knowledge and understanding of professional standards, processes and frameworks used by CBT Practitioners in assessment of competence and professional development. You will develop skills in using competency measures and reflective practice. You will engage in weekly group clinical supervision in this module to effectively work with clients in clinical practice.You will learn the CBT scientist-practitioner approach through enquiry and analysis of using empirically grounded interventions in your clinical practice. The module provides experiential learning in self-practice/self-reflection through the application of CBT in our own lives and consideration of values, culture and working with difference as a CBT Practitioner.
