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

Overview

This programme is designed for clinicians who have at least two years of post-qualification experience with psychosis and/or bipolar disorder or people with a diagnosis of personality disorder. It will support you to pursue a career as a Cognitive Behaviour Therapist.

Entry Requirements

• At least two years of post-qualification experience with psychosis and/or bipolar disorder or people with a diagnosis of personality disorder
• Some introductory knowledge and experience in CBT
• Successful completion of an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) or evidence of previous successful study at third year undergraduate degree level
• Qualified in one of the core mental health professions as outlined by the BABCP or equivalent
• The ability to complete and submit a Knowledge, Skills and Attitudes (KSA) portfolio

Course Content

• Develop and update your knowledge of the fundamental principles of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) theory, research and practice
• Develop an advanced knowledge and understanding of how scientific principles inform cognitive behavioural clinical practice
• Develop an advanced knowledge of core clinical skills necessary for CBT practice with people experiencing psychosis, bipolar or personality disorder
• Develop the capacity to reflect critically on CBT theory, research and practice
• Be able to demonstrate how you meet the competencies required to deliver NICE-concordant CBT for psychosis and bipolar or personality disorder
• Develop a portfolio of training, assessment and supervised practice that would allow you to apply for accreditation as a Cognitive-Behavioural Therapist with the BABCP

Modules

Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder

• PYCM104: The Fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• PYCM105: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression - Theory
• PYCM106: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression - Clinical Practice
• PYCM107: Working with Complexity: Essential Competencies for Working with People with Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder
• PYCM108: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder - Theory
• PYCM109: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Psychosis and Bipolar Disorder - Clinical Practice

Personality Disorder

• PYCM104: The Fundamentals of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
• PYCM105: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression - Theory
• PYCM106: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Anxiety and Depression - Clinical Practice
• PYCM110: Working with Complexity: Essential Competencies for Working with People with Personality Disorder
• PYCM111: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Personality Disorder - Theory
• PYCM112: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for Personality disorder - Clinical Practice

How to Apply

Applications to this programme 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.

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 your 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.

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. All sessions will include a theoretical and clinical skills component. Role play practice, practical exercises and small group discussions will occur regularly. There will also be guided independent study.

Assessments

Assessments will include:

• Oral case presentations
• Essays
• Written case reports
• Completion of CTSR competency assessments and accompanying documentation
• And a clinical portfolio.

Careers

This programme is training people already in a career within the NHS. It will provide you with an outstanding opportunity to develop your competencies and knowledge associated with practice as a CBT Practitioner.

Related Courses

• Severe Mental Health Problems - CBT for Psychosis & Bipolar Disorder/Personality Disorder PGCert
• 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.