Course Syllabus

The course consists of nine modules:

1. Theoretical Knowledge

• Demonstrate an in-depth understanding of major psychological theories and psychotherapeutic approaches (e.g., psychodynamic, humanistic, cognitive-behavioural, integrative).
• Understand the historical, social, and cultural contexts of psychotherapy.

2. Practical Skills

• Apply core psychotherapeutic techniques in a clinical setting.
• Develop and maintain effective therapeutic relationships with clients.
• Conduct assessments and formulate treatment plans based on client needs.

3. Ethics and Professionalism

• Practice in accordance with ethical and legal guidelines relevant to psychotherapy.
• Understand boundaries, confidentiality, and informed consent.
• Reflect on personal and professional limitations and seek supervision appropriately.

4. Self-Awareness and Personal Development

• Engage in personal development work to increase self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
• Recognize how personal issues and biases can impact therapeutic work.

5. Client Diversity and Inclusivity

• Demonstrate cultural sensitivity and adapt therapeutic approaches to meet the diverse needs of clients.
• Work effectively with individuals from various backgrounds, identities, and life experiences.

6. Communication Skills

• Communicate clearly and empathetically with clients and colleagues.
• Use active listening, paraphrasing, and summarizing skills in therapy sessions.

7. Research and Reflective Practice

• Critically evaluate psychological research and integrate evidence-based practices.
• Engage in reflective practice to continuously improve therapeutic effectiveness.

8. Professional Practice and Supervision

• Work effectively under supervision, giving and receiving constructive feedback.
• Maintain professional records and documentation.

9. New Architecture of Therapy

• Systems Integration: Move beyond single-modality work by adopting a flexible, layered framework where psychodynamic depth work, cognitive restructuring, somatic awareness, and systemic/family perspectives are interwoven based on client readiness and context.
• Neuro-informed Practice: Incorporate findings from neuroscience, such as polyvagal theory and neuroplasticity, to guide interventions that support nervous system regulation and adaptive change.
• Digital & Hybrid Models: Use secure, evidence-based digital tools and blended formats (in-person + online) to enhance accessibility, continuity, and tracking of therapeutic progress.
• Co-Creation & Agency: Shift from therapist-led models to co-designed therapeutic journeys, empowering clients to define goals, choose methods, and actively evaluate outcomes.
• Contextual Awareness: Attend to the multiple relational contexts influencing the client (personal, social, cultural, digital, ecological), recognizing therapy as an adaptive, living system rather than a static set of techniques.
• Outcome Fluidity: Move from fixed 'success' metrics to dynamic indicators that reflect a client's evolving priorities, resilience, and ability to navigate complexity.

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