BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy with Youth Studies

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy with Youth Studies equips students with the skills and knowledge to become competent practitioners in the counselling field, with a focus on youth-related issues. Through a blended learning approach, students gain a comprehensive understanding of mental health, core counselling skills, and ethical considerations. The program emphasizes personal and professional development, preparing graduates for careers in youth counselling, social work, and other related fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

BA (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy with Youth Studies

is a part-time undergraduate program jointly delivered by Griffith College Dublin and the Irish College of Humanities & Applied Sciences (ICHAS).

• To equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to work effectively within the youth context, emphasizing the link between theory and practice.
• To foster the development of personal and professional attributes essential for success in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

Program Description:

This program utilizes a blended learning approach, combining classroom-based instruction with online learning modules. This allows students to access classes in person or online, offering greater flexibility and work-life balance. The program focuses on a diverse combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skill development, covering areas such as:

• Understanding mental health and related issues affecting young people.
• Developing core counselling skills and interventions.
• Exploring cultural and ethical considerations in professional practice.
• Applying various therapeutic approaches to work with adolescents.
• Engaging in personal and professional development to enhance self-awareness and ethical practice.

Outline:

Year 1 Modules:

• Study Skills for Higher Education
• Theoretical Perspectives in Counselling & Psychotherapy
• Essential Counselling & Psychotherapeutic Skills
• Group Facilitation
• Human Development across the Lifespan
• Ethics & Professional Issues
• Understanding Mental Health
• Introduction to Personal Development

Year 2 Modules:

• Core Competencies in Counselling & Psychotherapy
• Cultural Issues in Professional Practice
• Case Formulation
• Psychosocial Assessment
• Group Process
• Youth and Society
• Integrative Approaches in Adolescence
• Personal Development & Self-Caring Practices

Year 3 Modules:

• Research Approaches in Counselling & Psychotherapy
• Creative Therapeutic Approaches
• Mood, Stress, and Anxiety-Related Disorders
• Family Systems Theory & Psychotherapeutic Interventions
• Theory/Practice Integration
• Crime, Deviance, and Youth Justice
• Personal Psychotherapeutic Experiences 1
• Contemporary Discourses in Counselling and Psychotherapy
• Bereavement, Loss, and Grief
• Applied Practice
• Final Year Project
• Personal Psychotherapeutic Experiences 2
• Leadership, Management, and Empowerment in a Youth Context
• Elective (Choose One from List of Electives)

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Written assignments: Essays, reports, and case studies.
• Presentations: Individual and group presentations.
• Practical skills demonstrations: Role-playing, simulations, and client interactions.
• Reflective journals: Personal reflections on learning experiences.
• Examinations: Written and oral exams.

Teaching:

The program features a dedicated team of experienced lecturers and practitioners who are passionate about sharing their expertise and guiding students in their professional development. The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Interactive lectures: Engaging presentations and discussions.
• Skill-based workshops: Practical exercises and role-playing scenarios.
• Group work and collaboration: Encouraging teamwork and peer learning.
• Online learning platform: Access to learning materials, resources, and communication tools.

Careers:

Graduates of this program can pursue various career paths in the field of counselling and psychotherapy, including:

• Youth counsellor
• School counsellor
• Community mental health worker
• Addiction counsellor
• Family therapist
• Private practice counsellor
• Youth advocacy worker
• Social worker
• Educational psychologist

Other:

• The program is recognized throughout Europe, with graduates receiving the Europass Diploma Supplement in addition to their degree parchment.
• The program adheres to the new QQI Awards Standards for Counselling and Psychotherapy in Ireland.
• The program emphasizes the importance of personal development and ethical practice, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to work effectively and responsibly with young people.
• The program provides opportunities for students to gain practical experience through work-based learning, including 200 hours of direct client work under strict clinical supervision.

Tuition Fees Irish/EU citizens Irish/EU citizens Study Mode: Part-TimeIrish/EU living in Ireland: EUR 3.975 (this includes a 2% PEL levy)