PGCert Psychological Therapies Practice (Severe Mental Health Problems: CBT for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder or Personality Disorder)

Overview

The PGCert Psychological Therapies Practice (Severe Mental Health Problems: CBT for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder or Personality Disorder) is a postgraduate certificate program designed for individuals working in community mental health services with people who have a psychosis, bipolar or personality disorder diagnosis. The program aims to support students in developing their practical competency in CBT for psychosis and bipolar disorder or people with a diagnosis of personality disorder within the context of community mental health services.

Entry Requirements

• For NHS employees working in community mental health services with people who have a psychosis, bipolar or personality disorder diagnosis
• Significant knowledge and skill in CBT, and be ready to build on this and develop SMHP knowledge and skills

Course Content

The course includes supervision sessions, teaching sessions, clinical skills sessions, and self-study. A reflective stance is encouraged throughout. The evidence-based NICE recommended SMHP models will be covered, and the skills identified in the UCL competency maps will be taught. All content is underpinned by the research evidence.

Modules: Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder

• 60 credits of compulsory and non-condonable modules
• PYCM107: Working with Complexity: Essential Competencies for Working with People with Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder (20 credits)
• PYCM108: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder - Theory (20 credits)
• PYCM109: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder - Clinical Practice (20 credits)

Modules: Personality Disorder

• 60 credits of compulsory and non-condonable modules
• PYCM110: Working with Complexity: Essential Competencies for Working with People with Personality Disorder (20 credits)
• PYCM111: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Personality Disorder - Theory (20 credits)
• PYCM112: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Personality disorder - Clinical Practice (20 credits)

How to Apply

Applications to this program may only be made through NHS services recruiting trainees and not directly through the University of Exeter. Posts are typically advertised internally within NHS services. Following this, applicants will apply to the University. Applicants who meet the criteria will be invited for interview.

Fees

• £8,000 per year, funded by Health Education England, so fees are not payable by candidates

Scholarships

• The University of Exeter has many different scholarships available to support education, including £5 million in scholarships for international students applying to study with us in the 2025/26 academic year, such as our Exeter Excellence Scholarships
• University of Exeter Alumni Scholarship: 20% of the first year tuition fee for students enrolling on a postgraduate taught or research program of study in 2025/26

Teaching and Research

• Teaching will consist of full and half-day workshops delivered online, as well as a small number of teaching blocks taking place in-person in Exeter, Devon
• Assessments will include oral presentation, written case report, completion of CTSR competency assessments and accompanying documentation, and clinical portfolio
• Time commitment: minimum of two days per week, usually consisting of one day attending university online and one day delivering CBT-SMHP

Careers

• This program is training people already in a career within the NHS
• It will provide an outstanding opportunity to develop competencies and knowledge associated with practice as a CBT Practitioner
• A strong emphasis throughout the program is placed upon personal and professional development

Related Courses

• Severe Mental Health Problems - CBT for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder or Personality Disorder PGDip
• Psychological Therapies Practice and Research MSc
• Mental Health Practice in Education Settings PGDip/GradDip
• High Intensity Cognitive Behavioural Therapy PGDip

University of Exeter

---

Overview:

The University of Exeter is a public research university located in Exeter, Devon, England. It is a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive universities in the UK. The university is known for its strong academic reputation, particularly in the fields of law, business, and environmental sciences.

---

Services Offered:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Student website:

Provides access to information and resources for current students.

ELE (Exeter Learning Environment):

An online platform for accessing course materials, submitting assignments, and communicating with instructors.

Email web access:

Allows students to access their university email accounts.

Payment portal:

Enables students to make payments for tuition fees and other expenses.

MyExeter (student app):

A mobile app that provides access to various student services and information.

Library:

Offers a comprehensive collection of books, journals, and other resources.

SID (Student Information Database):

A system for managing student records and accessing personal information.

Timetable:

Allows students to view their class schedules.

Programme and module information:

Provides details about academic programs and courses.

---

Student Life and Campus Experience:

The University of Exeter offers a vibrant and diverse student experience. Students can expect:

Active student societies:

A wide range of clubs and societies cater to various interests.

Sports facilities:

The university has excellent sports facilities, including a gym, swimming pool, and sports fields.

Campus events:

Regular events and activities are organized throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and social gatherings.

Accommodation options:

The university provides a variety of accommodation options for students, both on and off campus.

Wellbeing services:

The university offers a range of support services for student wellbeing, including counseling and mental health support.

---

Key Reasons to Study There:

Excellent academic reputation:

The University of Exeter is consistently ranked among the top universities in the UK.

World-leading research:

The university is renowned for its research, particularly in areas such as environmental sciences, law, and business.

Vibrant student life:

The university offers a diverse and engaging student experience with a wide range of clubs, societies, and events.

Beautiful campus setting:

The university's campuses are located in picturesque settings, with easy access to the city of Exeter and the surrounding countryside.

Strong career support:

The university provides excellent career support services to help students find employment after graduation.

---

Academic Programs:

The University of Exeter offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines, including:

Arts and Humanities:

English, History, Classics, Philosophy, Music, Drama, and more.

Social Sciences:

Law, Politics, Economics, Sociology, Psychology, and more.

Science and Engineering:

Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics, Computer Science, and more.

Medicine and Health:

Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Pharmacy, and more.

Business and Management:

Business Administration, Finance, Marketing, Accounting, and more.

---

Other:

• The university has three main campuses: Streatham Campus, St Luke's Campus, and Penryn Campus.
• The university is committed to sustainability and has a strong focus on environmental issues.

• The university has a strong international reputation and attracts students from all over the world.

• Academic Programs:

  While the context mentions some general disciplines, it does not provide a detailed outline of the key academic programs and strengths of the institution.