Masters Degrees (Family Therapy)

The M.S. in Family Therapy is designed to help students develop clinical excellence and prepare for careers as marriage and family therapists. Students are prepared to assume professional positions in private practice, employee assistance programs, managed care and health care organizations, child care and child development systems, family service agencies, schools, churches, hospitals, and other clinical and organizational settings.

The 60-credit hour degree program consists of coursework and clinical practice. Training is concentrated on brief, interactional models of family therapy, preparing our graduates to practice in a time sensitive, cost-effective manner. The M.S. in Family Therapy has full accreditation with the:

Program format

The M.S. in Family Therapy is offered on-campus on NSU's Main Campus.

Students may enter the M.S. program in the Fall or Summer trimester. Students may enroll full or part time, taking six to twelve credit hours per trimester. Students who begin in the Summer trimester may be part time for that trimester. Classes typically meet 3-6 pm and 6- 9 pm with the exception of practicum.

Students who attend full-time can expect to complete the program in 2 years approximately. Part-time students will complete the program in 3 years or less depending on the pace of study. Summer attendance is required.

Master's students are provided NSU computer accounts including email and Blackboard, but must obtain their own Internet service providers, use their own computer systems and have a usable web camera. Online students use the web to access course materials, announcements, email, distance library services, subscription library databases, and other information, and for interaction with faculty and fellow students. Online, interactive learning methods are based on the use of Blackboard as a course management system. Online activities facilitate frequent student-to-faculty and student-to-student interaction. They are supported by threaded discussion boards, white boards, chat rooms, email, and multimedia presentations. In addition, Blackboard enables students to submit assignments online in multimedia formats and to receive their professors' reviews of assignments online in the same formats.

Vision Statement

The Master's Program in Family Therapy strives to educate and train students to become competent Couples and Family therapists with the ability to work with culturally and sexually diverse populations and marginalised groups in individual, couple, family, group and organisational settings. Our program further strives to uphold all professional standards in the field.

Mission Statement

The Master's Program in Family Therapy provides training using a relational/systemic theoretical lens in work with individuals, couples, families, groups and organisations. The program curriculum emphasises the ethical and professional practice of Couples and Family Therapy, offering professional and scholarly services to the community including culturally and sexually diverse populations and other marginalised groups. Through these practices, the program demonstrates a commitment to issues of cultural and sexual diversity, inclusion, and international sensitivity. The program provides a global perspective of research, scholarship and service and participates in reflective practices through self-evaluation and input from our communities of interest as we strive to maintain the highest professional standards.

Curriculum

Criteria for acceptance into the M.S. in Family Therapy include a major emphasis on applicants who are familiar with and interested in learning systemic theories and therapies. They also attend to applicants' comfort with cultural and sexual diversity and their ability to connect to people in crisis. Applicants who demonstrate significant ability to listen to others, engage in conversation, and learn from dialogue will be best prepared for admission. The admissions essay must include specific citations of family therapy literature to provide a rationale for the applicant's decision to pursue a career in marriage and family therapy.

The Master of Science in Family Therapy degree program requires 60 hours of graduate coursework and clinical practical. Training is concentrated on brief, interactional models of family therapy, preparing our graduates to practice in a time-sensitive, cost-effective manner. The program fulfils the academic requirements for state licensure in Florida and for clinical membership in AAMFT; additional post-master's clinical experience is required for both credentials.

Required Courses

• SFTM 5310 - Introduction to Systems Theory (3 credits) 
• SFTM 5311 - Substance Abuse/Addictions and Critical Issues in Systems Theory (3 credits)
• SFTM 5320 - Introduction to Marital and Family Therapy: Counselling Theories and Techniques (3 credits)
• SFTM 5321 - Theories of Marital and Family Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 5322 - Clinical Practice in Marital & Family Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 5330 - Group Psychotherapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 5350 - Research in Marriage and Family Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 5400 - Internal Practicum I-II (3 credits)
• SFTM 5700 - Course Comprehensive Exam (3 credits)
• SFTM 6300 - External Practicum I-II (3 credits)
• SFTM 6320 - Assessment in Marital and Family Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 6331 - Diversity and Psychosocial Issues (3 credits)
• SFTM 6332 - Human Sexuality and Gender (3 credits)
• SFTM 6333 - Theories of Personality and Psychopathology (3 credits)
• SFTM 6340 - Legal, Ethical, and Professional Issues in Marriage and Family Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 6550 - International Perspectives in Counselling and Therapy (3 credits)
• SFTM 6558 - Couples Therapy: Theory and Application (3 credits)

Practicum

To complete the M.S. in Family Therapy, students must complete 500 hours of client contact, 250 of which must consist of relational hours with couples and families. Students also must accumulate at least 100 supervision hours, 50 of which must be based on direct observation and videotape. They are responsible for documenting clinical and supervision hours, using the forms provided on the CAHSS website under student resources. Students are required to keep a copy of all documentation pertaining to both Internal and External Practicums. This includes their clinical and supervision hour forms, contracts, and clinical evaluations. A student's first two Practicums are at the Brief Therapy Institute, Family Therapy Clinic; therefore, they are called Internal Practicums. Students must pass the first two Internal Practicums to be eligible to continue clinical training in two External Practicums. Students may elect to take more than two Internal Practicums to better hone in their clinical skills prior to moving into their External Practicum setting.

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The Postgraduate Certificate in Systemic Practice covers the first two years of family therapy training and combines both Foundation and Intermediate level training in systemic practice. Each level of training is accredited by the Association of Family Therapy.

The programme is multi-disciplinary and covers aspects of working with families in clinical settings, as well as wider applications of systemic thinking and practice. It is suitable for professionals working in psychology, nursing, psychiatry, social work, counselling, voluntary organisations and related fields.

The programme is accredited by the Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice and successful completion meets the training requirement for application to the qualifying course in Systemic Family Therapy leading to UKCP registration.

More information

The Leeds Family Therapy and Research Centre has been training therapists for over 20 years to help individuals, couples and families find ways of tackling their problems.

You can study this subject at other levels:

• Foundation course in Family Therapy
• Family Therapy (Intermediate)
• Systemic Family Therapy MSc

Accreditation

This course is accredited by the Association for Family Therapy and as such fulfils the training requirements for Foundation and Intermediate Level training in Systemic Practice. Read more on the Association for Family Therapy website.

Course content

The programme runs over two years, combining the Foundation course in Family Therapy and Family Therapy Intermediate programmes.

In the first year, at Foundation level, you will be introduced to key theoretical approaches in family therapy and the skills and techniques associated with them.

The second year, at Intermediate level, builds on your knowledge and use of theory and practice in systemic family therapy and concentrates on the development of your therapeutic skills with families, couples and individuals, and the application of systemic ideas in your work context. You will be required to undertake 60 hours of systemic therapeutic practice in your own work agency. In the second year themes are followed each term, with an initial focus on your personal and professional development as a systemic practitioner, followed in the second term by further study of the theory of systemic practice and related skills. The final term considers the application of systemic theory and practice in a range of health and social care settings and to your own therapeutic practice. Throughout the programme you will be encouraged to develop a commitment to actively promote ethical, anti-discriminatory practice and to highlight and critique culturally-based assumptions in their practice.

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and practical teaching followed by theory and application discussions and skills practice in small groups facilitated by qualified family therapists.

The programme runs on approximately 20 Wednesday evenings each year (5pm to 8.30pm) in September-June, plus up to three full days. It takes place on the University's main campus.

Course structure

Year 1 Compulsory modules

• Foundation Course in Systemic Practice 30 credits

Year 2 Compulsory modules

• Intermediate Course in Systemic Practice 30 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Systemic Practice PGCert in the course catalogue

Learning and teaching

You’ll be taught through lectures, practical classes, and group tutorials. We make extensive use of IT and a wide range of material to enable students to study at their own pace and in their own time to enhance and extend the material taught formally. In the second year you will develop your learning in systemic skills and practice based upon your systemic practice in your own work setting.

Assessment

We monitor your progress through attendance, participation in lectures and tutorials, feedback on written assignments, exam (second year) and a learning log. You will be required to complete 60 hours of systemic practice and provide evidence completion.

Career opportunities

Students who complete the Postgraduate Certificate in Systemic Practice training can describe themselves as Systemic Practitioners. This is not a formal qualification but is a recognised professional development indicating the knowledge and skills development in this training.

Past students have progressed to training on MSc in Systemic Family Therapy programme. Students who complete the MSc in Systemic Family Therapy are eligible to register with the UKCP as Systemic Psychotherapists and to practise in the public and voluntary sectors, as well as privately.

Careers support

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

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The Master of Marriage and Family Therapy (MMFT) program is well established having graduated its first students in 1992. The strength of the MMFT is its clinical focus. The core of the program is the 500 hours of therapy under supervision that each student completes primarily at Aurora Family Therapy Centre located on The University of Winnipeg campus. Another reflection of the clinical focus is that all Faculty members are themselves practicing therapists, and all Supervisors are Approved by or Supervisors-in-Training with the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy.

The program is structured to meet the needs of the part‑time student; this fits for those already working in the field who wish to develop a specialty in marriage and family therapy, and for those who are just beginning their career and need time and life experience to develop as a therapist.

Our student body is composed of persons from various backgrounds, the majority with some prior experience as helping professionals. We also have trainees who are choosing family therapy as their first profession, persons in mid-life who are totally changing their career direction, and retirees who are finally realizing a lifelong dream to achieve therapy credentials. We are committed to a policy of non-discrimination, and we welcome diversity, including differences in ethnic origin and sexual preference. Diversity in our learning community mirrors our pluralistic social context and enriches the experiential learning process for everyone.

Research and experience both substantiate that the core predictable indicator of successful therapy is the person of the therapist; thus much attention is paid to this dimension in the MMFT program. Students are taught a variety of therapy theories and are invited to attend to their own professional and personal development in order to become the best therapist possible.

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The programme offers a comprehensive clinical training in family therapy. You will undertake supervised clinical work with families in both adult and child mental health settings.

Key benefits

- Strong focus on training professionals to work within multi-disciplinary settings.

- Broad based integrative approach to evidence-based therapy.Small groups and a high level of tutor support.

- Provision of supervised clinical practice.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/family-therapy-msc.aspx

Course details

- Description -

Our Family Therapy course is designed for professionals working in a mental health setting, such as nurses, GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists.

Our MSc-level course is designed for students with significant prior clinical experience. You will already have completed the first two years of Family Therapy training either at the IoPPN or an another Association for Family Therapy-accredited course.

Completion of this course will qualify you for registration with the UK Council for Psychotherapy as a family and systemic psychotherapist.

- Course format and assessment -

The course is delivered through lectures, small group seminars, skills development groups, case presentations and personal and professional development groups. This course includes a significant amount of live supervised clinical practice which enables students to develop their psychotherapy skills to a high level and with a range of clients. Students on the PT MSc will need to be working in a context that allows them to complete 100 clinical hours of family and couple therapy in each year of the course.

Study groups are small and there is a high level of personal attention. Lectures and discussions form the core teaching for each module. They cover the main topics and key themes in the curriculum of each module, and ideas are developed further in small group work, case analyses and student presentations. You are expected to supplement class work and lecture notes with further reading. Students find it helpful to do some preparatory reading each week.

Career prospects

Prepares students for registration with the UKCP as a systemic family therapist. Students go on to work within the NHS or similar settings. Successful graduates can apply for Family and Systemic Psychotherapy posts and work privately.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/pg/funding/sources

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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The Family Therapy Grad Cert course enables mental health professionals to develop useful theoretical knowledge and practise skills to enable them to work effectively with couples and families in the context of their own professional practice.

The focus of the course is in working in mental health settings, and the teaching draws from a range of different approaches. This integrative approach ensures that students have a solid grounding which enables them to adapt their practice to different client groups. At the end of the course students will have gained confidence in working with more than one person in the room and be able to use a number of approaches to help people towards positive change. There is a focus on evidence-based practice and on the development of good therapeutic relationships.

Key benefits

- Introduces students to the field of systemic theory, practice and research.
- Introduces basic practice skills and their application to clinical practice.
- Enables students to begin to develop a stance of self-reflexivity and prepare for entry to qualifying level training.

Visit the website: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/taught-courses/family-therapy-grad-cert.aspx

Course detail

- Description -

The Family Therapy course is designed for professionals working in a mental health setting, such as nurses, GPs, paediatricians, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists.

At the Graduate Certificate level the course provides an introduction to the field of systemic theory, practice and research and will begin to develop your clinical skills and practice. This is an ideal course for entry into qualifying-level training.

- Course purpose -

The focus of the course is in working in mental health settings, and the teaching draws from a range of different approaches. This integrative approach ensures that students have a solid grounding which enables them to adapt their practice to different client groups. At the end of the course students will have gained confidence in working with more than one person in the room and be able to use a number of approaches to help people towards positive change. There is a focus on evidence-based practice and on the development of good therapeutic relationships.

- Course format and assessment -

Study groups are small and there is a high level of personal attention. Teaching formats include academic seminars, small group reading seminars, application to practice seminars, individual and professional development groups, clinical practice groups and individual/clinical placements.

Assessment is through written assignments, examination and ongoing formative assessment of practice. Lectures and discussions form the core teaching for each module. They cover the main topics and key themes in the curriculum of each module, and ideas are developed further in small group work, case analyses and student presentations. You are expected to supplement class work and lecture notes with further reading. As well as recommended references, which are linked to each weeks' sessions, independent literature searches will extend your knowledge and understanding.

Career prospects

Students can go on to study the final part of the training (MSc in Family Therapy) or use their knowledge and skills to incorporate systemic work in existing clinical practice.

How to apply: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/apply/taught-courses.aspx

About Postgraduate Study at King’s College London:

To study for a postgraduate degree at King’s College London is to study at the city’s most central university and at one of the top 20 universities worldwide (2015/16 QS World Rankings). Graduates will benefit from close connections with the UK’s professional, political, legal, commercial, scientific and cultural life, while the excellent reputation of our MA and MRes programmes ensures our postgraduate alumni are highly sought after by some of the world’s most prestigious employers. We provide graduates with skills that are highly valued in business, government, academia and the professions.

Scholarships & Funding:

All current PGT offer-holders and new PGT applicants are welcome to apply for the scholarships. For more information and to learn how to apply visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/ioppn/study/prospective-students/Masters-Scholarships.aspx

Free language tuition with the Modern Language Centre:

If you are studying for any postgraduate taught degree at King’s you can take a module from a choice of over 25 languages without any additional cost. Visit: http://www.kcl.ac.uk/mlc

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This course provides an introduction to systemic ideas and their relevance in helping us gain a better understanding of individuals, families and the organisations in which we all function. In particular it will appeal to all those working in the caring professions who have an interest in developing their practice in terms of working with families. Moreover this type of training offers a broader perspective and understanding of how crucial family dynamics are in the development and maintenance of problems. At the same time it provides creative ways of involving the family in finding solutions to their difficulties.

Key benefits

- Work placement

- Fully accredited for Foundation Level Training with the Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice

Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/course/pgc-family-therapy-and-systemic-practice-pt-me

Course detail

- Description -

Graduates of the course can go on to undertake the next stages in this training - that of Intermediate Level and Masters Level. In addition to this, students working in a variety of work contexts will also benefit from supplementing their own professional skills with the systemic theory and skills learned on the course. Given the broad appeal and applicability of systemic therapy principles, this course will inform and enhance students' understanding and approach to supporting individuals, couples and organisations, as well as families.

- Purpose -

The course aims to:

- Introduce the participants to the field of systemic theory, practice and research;
- Introduce the participants to the basic skills, applicable to their work settin;
- Increase participants’ awareness and acceptance of the need for professional practice to be characterised by respectfulness and reflexivity;
- Provide a basis from which the student may proceed towards intermediate level training.

- Teaching and learning assessment -

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, and student-led peer groups. The peer groups promote experiential learning on the programme via role-play and group tasks, designed to develop students' clinical skills and understanding.

Assessment takes the form of essays, reflective diaries, and presentations. There are no written examinations on the programme.

Career options

This course is fully accredited for Foundation Level Training with the Association for Family Therapy and Systemic Practice. It therefore forms the first step in training to become a fully qualified Family Therapist. Graduates of the course can go on to undertake the next stages in this training - that of Intermediate Level and Masters Level. In addition to this, students working in a variety of work contexts will also benefit from supplementing their own professional skills with the systemic theory and skills learned on the course. Given the broad appeal and applicability of systemic therapy principles, this course will inform and enhance students' understanding and approach to supporting individuals, couples and organisations, as well as families.

How to apply: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/how-to-apply#pg

Why Choose Ulster University ?

1. Over 92% of our graduates are in work or further study six months after graduation.
2. We are a top UK university for providing courses with a period of work placement.
3. Our teaching and the learning experience we deliver are rated at the highest level by the Quality Assurance Agency.
4. We recruit international students from more than 100 different countries.
5. More than 4,000 students from over 50 countries have successfully completed eLearning courses at Ulster University.

Flexible payment

To help spread the cost of your studies, tuition fees can be paid back in monthly instalments while you learn. If you study for a one-year, full-time master’s, you can pay your fees up-front, in one lump sum, or in either five* or ten* equal monthly payments. If you study for a master’s on a part-time basis (e.g. over three years), you can pay each year’s fees up-front or in five or ten equal monthly payments each year. This flexibility allows you to spread the payment of your fees over each academic year. Find out more by visiting https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/postgraduate

Scholarships

A comprehensive range of financial scholarships, awards and prizes are available to undergraduate, postgraduate and research students. Scholarships recognise the many ways in which our students are outstanding in their subject. Individuals may be able to apply directly or may automatically be nominated for awards. Visit the website: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/fees-and-finance/scholarships

English Language Tuition

CELT offers courses and consultations in English language and study skills to Ulster University students of all subjects, levels and nationalities. Students and researchers for whom English is an additional language can access free CELT support throughout the academic year: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/international/english-language-support

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If you’re committed to a career as a qualified systemic psychotherapist then this postgraduate certificate (PG Cert) is your first stepping stone. Over two years you’ll study flexibly to fit around your work commitments. The course is also for any professional who wants to develop skills in working systemically with individuals, couples and families.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/part-time/family-therapy-and-systemic-practice

Our PG Cert is the first two years of a four-year qualification for Family and Systemic Psychotherapy. Made up of two modules, our course is accredited by the Association of Family Therapy (AFT), so you can be confident that you’re developing skills that are up-to-date and relevant for a career in family psychotherapy. Each module can be studied alone as part of your continued professional development, or they can be combined as you work towards your full training to become a qualified systemic (family) psychotherapist.

Our course is suitable whatever client groups you work with and will build on your knowledge, beliefs and experiences within your own work context. You’ll develop a deep understanding of systemic thinking and practice and how to put this into practice with clients and families, exploring a range of presenting problems and contexts spanning the lifecycle from birth to old age.

Teaching times: Year 1, Tuesdays 3-8pm. Year 2. Wednesdays 3-8pm. Seventeen weeks of the year during term-time.

See the website http://www.anglia.ac.uk/study/part-time/family-therapy-and-systemic-practice

Careers

By successfully completing your PG Cert you’ll be able to continue your studies to the completion of your MSc, which will then allow you to register as a family and systemic psychotherapist, on the basis that you fulfil AFT requirements. You’ll also be able to refer to yourself as a systemic practitioner, which will be a significant addition to your professional portfolio.

- Links with industry and professional recognition
Our course is carried out at a Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit and we have strong links with the local mental health trust, allowing you to come into contact with a wide range of professionals already working in family psychotherapy.

Core modules

An Introduction to Working Systemically with Individuals, Couples and Families
Further Developments in Systemic Practice

Please note that you will need to complete all of the above core modules. This course does not have any optional modules. Modules are subject to change.

Assessment

You’ll be assessed in a range of ways to determine your expertise as an advanced reflective practitioner, including case and paper presentations to peers, a reflective portfolio, a case study and, at the end of the second module, a presentation to peers on a systemic concept of your choice and its application to practice. Assessment is on-going throughout the course and small group learning develops your skills with formative and informal feedback available on an ongoing basis.

Your faculty

The Faculty of Health, Social Care & Education is the largest provider of health, social care and education courses in the East of England, with over 6,000 students from more than 20 countries.

With 95% of our students finding full-time employment within six months of graduating, you can be sure that our courses have been designed with your career in mind. We’ve been educating nurses, midwives and social workers for over 25 years.

At the cutting edge of research, we offer a range of internationally recognised undergraduate and postgraduate degree courses taught by friendly and experienced staff.

Designed to enhance your learning experience, our facilities include state-of-the-art simulated skills laboratories that mirror real-life clinical situations and UK hospital wards. Our students also benefit from our Early Childhood Research and Resource Centre; a space in which they can experiment with equipment and play activities.

You’ll study in an exciting, modern faculty which has strong links with regional, national and international organisations, including healthcare trusts, schools and academic institutions.

Your enthusiasm. Our passion. Your best foot forward.

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The masters in counselling award provides a framework for theoretical understanding and skills development in the application of a systemic approach to working with individual adults and children, couples and families as well as supervision of counselling practice. Alongside these frameworks, students can enjoy a detailed analysis of models and practices in supervision, including an understanding of wider systemic influences that impact practice.

Systemic approaches to psychotherapy and family therapy have been the cornerstone of the Family Institute’s clinical practice, teaching and research since 1967. The Institute was the first centre in the UK to develop these approaches to problems in living. Forty years on, progress in family therapy has occurred at a rapid pace. The application of systems thinking and practice in health and social care contexts has grown considerably. It has, therefore, become essential to ensure the highest standards of practice, training and qualification in applying systemic approaches effectively within these fields.

“The course allowed me to find my own way around the myriad of counselling and psychotherapy approaches, and to appreciate the theoretical support of such approaches.” Ann Jones, BSc Systemic Counselling

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/751-msc-systemic-counselling

What you will study

You will study the following modules:
- Foundation in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice
- Using Systemic Practice in the Work Setting
- Research Methods
- Counselling Supervision and Consultation

The programme aims to offer students opportunity to:
- develop in-depth understanding of conceptual frameworks underpinning systemic theory and practice applied to counselling;

- understand and utilise methods of integration in order to develop their own personal epistemology in counselling practice;

- develop skills in responding to challenging or complex issues that may arise in counselling;

- develop and promote appropriate treatment responses and skills in working with areas new to their experience and knowledge (e.g. serious mental illness, couples, children, families, elders, refugees, forensic settings, new theoretical developments, methods and techniques);

- develop knowledge and practice of appropriate supervision in counselling;

- develop an understanding of organisational development and the interaction between relevant wider systems in the practice of supervision, for example, management and governance of services;

- promote high professional standards.

Learning and teaching methods

The award integrates practice-based evidence with evidence-based practice and offers excellent training in research methods. You will study through a mixture of lectures, group discussion via action learning and independent study. Assessment will involve directed study assignments, analysis of practice in supervision and video or audio review.

Practice based learning is a central component to this award and is embedded in the philosophy of the award. The award has been designed to develop the professional requirements of counsellors from a variety of professional backgrounds and takes into account current British Psychological Society criteria for Chartered Counselling Psychologists.

Staff delivering this award have extensive experience of designing and teaching Family Therapy and Systemic Practice programmes at postgraduate level (UKCP accredited) as well as Counselling programmes leading to a BSc Hons in Counselling (BACP accredited). The Institute is a member of the European Family Therapy Association and also the Universities Psychotherapy and Counselling Association.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

There is an increase in the demand for counsellors and there is a corresponding need for supervision and continuing professional development. The demands on counsellors to practice to the highest ethical, theoretical and practical standards increase as we move towards statutory regulation (possibly by 2012). In the context of increasing focus on evidence-based practice, the practitioner’s relationship to the scientist’s practitioner model will influence how they locate their practice and thinking within wider networks of research and collegial exchange of good practice, not only as practitioners but also as supervisors.

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Systemic approaches to psychotherapy and family therapy have been the cornerstone of The Family Institute’s clinical practice, teaching and research since 1967. The Institute was the first centre in the UK to develop these approaches to problems in living. Forty years on, progress in family therapy has occurred at a rapid pace. The application of systems thinking and practice in health and social care contexts has grown considerably. It has, therefore, become essential to ensure the highest standards of practice, training and qualification in applying systemic approaches effectively within these fields.

This course will develop knowledge and skills that you can apply to your area of practice. It is ideal if you want to enhance your existing expertise, gain new skills for career development or a career change, or address CPD aspects of professional qualifications. The Family Institute attracts a wide range of professionals to its courses, offering the added opportunity of shared learning between health and social care professionals from diverse backgrounds.

Our course and its components are also pre-requisites for further clinical training in psychotherapy or counselling, and aspects of this course may be required if you want to work in various therapeutic contexts. People undertaking counselling psychology training have used this course as part of their portfolio submission. This award also includes the curriculum for foundation and intermediate level training. As such, it satisfies the first two years of a four-year postgraduate training programme leading to professional qualification as a UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP) Registered Family and Systemic Psychotherapist.

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/310-postgraduate-certificate-systemic-counselling

What you will study

You will study the following modules:
- Foundations in Family Therapy and Systemic Practice
- Using Systemic Family Therapy Approaches in the Work Setting

New modules are being developed due to restructuring of this course.

Learning and teaching methods

An adult learning approach characterises the learning environment and actively involves a variety of learning activities, including interactive tutorials, student-led seminars, critical incident analysis, use of resource-based learning materials and a variety of group-work activities.

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Family systems perspectives on theory and practice have been rapidly developing across a wide range of professional disciplines and practice contexts. If you work with adults, children, couples or within the family healthcare field, this is your opportunity to further your knowledge and develop the skills to practice therapeutically at a specialised and advanced level using systemic theoretical frameworks.

This award integrates taught clinical practice, theory, personal development and research. It forms Years Three to Four of The Family Institute’s psychotherapy training programme and builds on the Institute’s long experience of teaching psychotherapy. It is designed to meet UKCP, UK Association for Family Therapy and European training standards.

“I have had a good experience of studying other courses. I enjoyed the practical aspect of this course. I also enjoyed spending time at the Family Clinic within the University.” – Tracy Brain, MSc Systemic Psychotherapy, Health Visitor

See the website http://courses.southwales.ac.uk/courses/356-msc-systemic-psychotherapy

What you will study

Year One:
- Systemic Approaches to Clinical Practice
- Systemic Psychotherapy in Context
- Integrating Systemic Theory, Practice and Research

Year Two:
- Communication, Change and the Development of Therapeutic Practice
- Second-Order Cybernetics and Complex Systemic Organisation

Learning and teaching methods

Curriculum hours of study are designed to meet national Association for Family Therapy (AFT) and European Family Therapy Association (EFTA) standards. Live supervised practice is based at the Institute’s clinic. Years One and Two comprise 40 taught days in a pattern of fortnightly two-day blocks, with a full week to start each year.

Work Experience and Employment Prospects

Assessment methods:
You will be assessed through lecturer/supervisor assessment, self-assessment, summative and formative assignments. Emphasis is on reflective practice. You must pass both theory and practice components of each module.

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Why choose this course:

• Our courses are highly regarded by professionals working within family therapy, and this course is accredited by the Association of Family Therapy (AFT).

• When you complete this course you will be able to register as a systemic psychotherapist or family therapist with the UK Council Psychotherapy (UKCP).

• With over ten years' experience of teaching systemic psychotherapy, our experienced teaching team is keen to pass its expertise on to you.

• If you have already completed the PG Cert Systemic Thinking and Practice or have passed an Association of Family Therapy (AFT) accredited intermediate course, this course is ideal for you.

About the course:

This two year part time course offers you the flexibility of continuing your professional development without taking a break from your career.

In your first year you'll study for the PG Dip Systemic Thinking and Practice, which includes a weekly supervised training clinic for 40 weeks.

In your second year the teaching will be focused on the MSc Systemic Psychotherapy, which also includes a weekly supervised training clinic for 40 weeks of the year.

You'll need to study both years to form the MSc Systemic Psychotherapy.

You'll be taught in our Clinical Skills Suite, which is a working clinical environment where you'll be able to learn and develop your practical and research skills. The cost for live clinical supervision for both years is covered by the course fees.

You'll study some parts of the course with students on other psychotherapy courses, so you'll have the opportunity to critically appraise systemic practice and other psychotherapy and counselling models.

You may be eligible for Learning Beyond Registration (LBR) funding if you choose this course, contact us for more details.

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Critical and reflective examination of systemic theory is at the heart of this course, and you will also focus on the application of a systemic framework to practice and research.

You study different approaches to therapeutic work across a range of subjects and client groups, including adult mental health, individuals, couples, children and families.

You will also sharpen your own critical responses to discourses relating to power, difference and diversity, and develop the skills needed to address issues of discrimination.

This course is delivered in partnership with the Institute of Family Therapy in London.

Intermediate qualifications available:

• Postgraduate diploma – 120 credits at Masters level

Choose Family and Systemic Psychotherapy MSc and:

• Study through a combination of lectures, group exercises and activities, and in addition to focusing on research and theory, benefit from the programme’s clinical practice component
• Explore a range of qualitative methods for conducting research, before designing and conducting a piece of work in an area of your own interest and practice that you will write up for your final dissertation
• Develop systemic practice skills through weekly attendance of a supervision group where you will work directly with clients assessing risk, safety and vulnerability, the therapeutic relationship, interventions, and theories of change
• Gain an opportunity to develop your professional interests and contribute to the development of knowledge within the systemic field
• Benefit from power and diversity group plenaries which will support you in the development of a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding power and discrimination.

Visit the website: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/courses/postgraduate/next-year/family-and-systemic-psychotherapy#about

Course description

The Research component of the course encourages independent learning, providing you with an opportunity to develop your own professional practice interests in initiating and taking responsibility for a research project and dissertation, contributing to the development of knowledge within the systemic field. The course aims to help you develop your work with families and couples, to increase and consolidate your theoretical and clinical skills and your understanding of the use of the self in practice. The inclusion of a wide range of approaches is an important characteristic. It is part of the course philosophy to encourage you in the development of a critical approach to theory and practice examining the inequalities and differences for example of race, class, gender, and to encourage an ethical and anti-discriminatory approach to clients. Use of self and self-reflexive practice is a core aspect of training,

A particular feature of the course are the Power and Diversity group plenaries, which support you in developing your understanding of issues of power and discrimination. These plenaries supplement and support the acquisition of these skills in your supervision group to apply this understanding in your therapeutic practice.

Subject to the agreement of your agency, you will be expected to bring your own case material for discussion and video or audio recordings of your work. Where appropriate signed, informed consent will be obtained from families for this purpose. For review of work during the course through DVD consultation, the consent forms for therapy include consent to record and review for the purposes of training. The academic and experiential learning provided encourages you to develop a broad critique and to apply a range of interventions in family and other related contexts in which you have a professional role. .

The course is the final stage of training leading to qualification as a family / systemic psychotherapist and eligibility to register with the UKCP.

The part time structure of the course enables you to continue in your employment while you study. The combination of evening and day time study and its central location make it accessible geographically to students from different parts of the UK. Tutors and supervisors are all registered systemic psychotherapists and systemic supervisors, many of whom have a PhD, combining academic rigour which is also grounded in clinical practice, contributing to a rich learning experience.

Modules

• Advanced Theory In Context (ASS044-6) Compulsory
• Clinical Practice: The Developing Therapist (ASS042-6) Compulsory
• Clinical Practice: The Maturing Therapist (ASS045-6) Compulsory
• Research Dissertation (ASS043-6) Compulsory
• Research Methods (ASS040-6) Compulsory
• Theory In Context (ASS041-6) Compulsory

Assessment

The spirit of the course is developmental learning and the promotion of connections between different aspects of the course and modes of learning. You will build on the skills and learning achieved in your Foundation and Intermediate level courses, taking them to a greater level of complexity.

The course employs a range of assessment strategies which respond to the learning outcomes of the course. The strategies include written assignments that give you the opportunity to show your systemic writing skills and critical use of the literature, particularly in the Research and Theory Units. In extending this assessment strategy, in different units on the course you will produce written analyses of your systemic work with clients showing the development of your application of theory to practice in both your course and agency-based places of work, as well as in vivo presentations. The strength of this strategy is that it draws on a range of strengths, and applies equally well to organisational dilemmas as well as case consultations and gives you the chance to extend your systemic thinking beyond the frame of direct work.

Career/Further study opportunities

This course qualifies you to practice as a family and systemic psychotherapist, and to apply for registration with the UKCP. Depending on your background and first professional qualification you may also have the possibility to apply for designated family therapist posts within the NHS. Following the Munro Report published in 2011 opportunities are beginning to open up for family therapy posts within the Social Care context, and a growing number of independent and third sector agencies are interested in having a qualified family / systemic psychotherapist on their staff, or providing consultation to their work. Other students go on to develop independent practice, often alongside posts within the statutory sector

Qualified practitioners with post-qualifying experience are eligible to apply for further study to become qualified systemic supervisors.

They may also apply for further study at Doctorate level, contributing to the development of knowledge within the field.

Students also use the increased confidence in their written and academic abilities to contribute written articles to journals within the field, for example the Journal of Family Therapy and to further develop their research interests.

Funding

For information on available funding, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/money/scholarships/pg

How to apply

For information on how to apply, please follow the link: https://www.beds.ac.uk/howtoapply/course/applicationform

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The specialization in human development and family studies provides students with the theoretical foundation and research skills necessary for pursuing doctoral work and for advanced employment in a wide variety of occupations serving children, adults, and families. Opportunities for research and experiential learning are provided in the research laboratories, The Children′s Program and with various agencies serving children and families across the state of Alabama.

Visit the website http://www.hdfs.ches.ua.edu/human-development-and-family-studies-graduate-program.html

Why Should You Pursue a Graduate Degree in HDFS?

Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS)

Earning a master’s degree in this discipline allows students the opportunity to:
– Develop critical thinking skills based on research and used to make a positive impact on families.

– Create a more competitive resume to earn supervisory or administrative positions.

– Develop research skills to design and conduct a scholarly project (i.e., thesis) related to children and/or families in an area of your interest.

– Present your research at regional, national and international conferences and network with other professionals and/or graduate students .

– Publish a scholarly project with a faculty advisor.

– Prepare to pursue a doctorate degree.

Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT)

Earning a master’s degree in this discipline allows students the opportunity to:
– Develop clinical skills to be a professional working with children and families.

– Practice clinical skills through providing marriage and family therapy under the supervision of a licensed therapist.

– Meet qualifications for state licensure as a marriage and family therapist.

– Gain clinical membership in the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy.

– Network with other students training to be clinicians, educators, and/or professionals in your field.

– Prepare to pursue a doctorate degree.

Parent and Family Life Educator (PAFLE)

Earning a master’s degree in this discipline allows students the opportunity to:
– Develop professional skills to plan and implement preventive educational programs and intervention services for children and families.

– Gain knowledge of family systems, family strengths and contextual influences that impact family functioning.

– Develop skills to help individuals and families realize their potential.

– Network with other students training to be Certified Family Life Educators.

– Develop critical thinking skills to evaluate and deliver effective evidence-based family life education programs.

– Become a Certified Family Life Educator by the National Council on Family Relations.

Find out more in the Graduate Student Handbook (http://www.hdfs.ches.ua.edu/human-development-and-family-studies-graduate-program.html)

Find out how to apply here - http://graduate.ua.edu/prospects/application/

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Why choose this course:

• This course builds on 11 years' experience of training in Systemic Practice at Derby.

• Our course team are skilled systemic therapists who practise in a variety of agency settings and so offer contemporary theory and practice.

• It's aimed at multi-agency, multi-professional participants who work with a range of client groups presenting a range of challenges, symptoms, issues or difficulties.

• There's an emphasis on creating a safe group context both in the academic and clinical aspects of the course, to facilitate learning.

• The research appraisal half module is delivered jointly with participants from Postgraduate Certificate programmes in different models, for example Cognitive Behavioural Psychotherapy which offers the opportunity to view research issues from many perspectives.

• The course is accredited by the Association for Family Therapy (AFT) at Intermediate level.

• Following successful completion of the course, you would be eligible to carry on training to Clinical MSc level.

About the course:

The course would be of interest to you if you wish to extend your knowledge of systemic practice and if you have successfully completed the University Advanced Diploma in Systemic Practice and Family Therapy or equivalent Foundation level training. The Postgraduate Certificate will enhance your knowledge and skills and is accredited as intermediate level training. It's taught in a modular programme.

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Become a competent and capable clinical psychologist. Receive training which emphasises psychotherapy, reflective practice, complex clinical issues and applicable research skills. As the first in the country to be approved through a joint partnership between the Health and Care Professions Council (HPC) and the British Psychological Society (BPS), and having run since 1982, this programme will enhance your psychological career and enable you to become a highly reflective scientist practitioner.

Key features

Study an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) recognised research degree, one of the first to award the Doctorate in Clinical Psychology.

Benefit from service user involvement through working closely with the Service User and Carer Consultative Group.

Widening participation in clinical psychology - candidates from diverse backgrounds and experiences are welcome.

Benefit from our commitment to producing competent and capable clinical psychologists who work as highly reflective scientist practitioners.

Become eligible to apply for registration as clinical psychologists with the Health and Care Professions Council, with the opportunity to gain Chartered Psychologist (C.Psychol) status, and full membership of the Division of Clinical Psychology with the British Psychological Society.

Take advantage of excellent relationships with local services in the South West of England; local clinicians are committed to supporting training and offer a wide range of placements in both rural and urban settings.

Course details

Each year of this programme begins with an extended teaching block, the remaining teaching is then spread regularly throughout the year. The remainder of your time will be spent on clinical placements with teaching interspersed to complement the clinical experience you gain. Over the duration of the programme you will also undertake year-long placement periods. During your first year of study you will work with children, young people and families, and people with learning disabilities. As a first year trainee you will also gain a foundation level qualification in systemic family therapy (independently accredited by the Association of Family Therapy).

In your second year, you will gain experience interacting with adults and older adults. In this year greater emphasis is placed on working with individuals.

Your third year is a time for consolidating your new skills and preparing for future work in the health service. This year will take account of current legislation and policy with regard to the role of clinical psychologists in the National Health Service. For example, emphasis has been placed on acquiring competencies in supervision, consultation and leadership in line with recent policy guidelines. Research activities bridge the academic and clinical components of the programme with time allocated particularly in year three for a major empirical research project.

Applying

All applications for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology are made via:

The Clearing House

Fairbairn House

71-75 Clarendon Road,

Leeds, LS2 9PL.

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