Postgraduate Certificate in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

 

The Postgraduate Certificate has attracted students from clinical and counselling psychology, psychiatry, general practice, nursing, social work, speech therapy, occupational therapy, counselling and the voluntary sector. It provides qualified healthcare professionals with high quality training and supervision in CBT theory and practice, enhancing knowledge and skill in what is now recognised by the National Health Service as a major psychological treatment modality, with a substantial and growing evidence base.

After successful completion students are awarded a Postgraduate Certificate from the University of Oxford. This award can contribute towards a Postgraduate Diploma in CBT, accredited by The British Association of Behavioural & Cognitive Psychotherapies at Level 1.

Course aims

The Course aims to provide students with:

1. A sound knowledge of cognitive behavioural models, concepts and methods.
2. An understanding of issues of importance relating to the theory and practice of CBT. These include:
   • the relationship between CBT theory and therapy
   • the use of CBT with a variety of client groups and disorders
   • related research on outcome and process
3. Competence in assessing patient suitability for CBT
   • in developing CBT case-formulations
   • in devising and implementing individual treatment programmes
   • in evaluating their effects
4. The ability to convey clearly the central concepts of CBT and to communicate basic treatment skills.

The Course does not aim to prepare students to teach and supervise CBT. The emphasis is on acquiring, practising and communicating specialised clinical skills, within an explicit theoretical framework in relation to associated empirical research.

Teaching

The course begins with a four-day teaching block followed by one full-day per week over two terms. Students receive two hours of small group supervision weekly.

Reading and completion of written assignments will be undertaken in addition to the teaching days. Many students find it effective to set aside six to seven hours a week for private study.

Assessment

Students are required to:

• take an active part in teaching and supervision sessions, and carry out CBT with the required number of patients
• complete a 2000 word essay on CBT theory, research and practice
• complete a 4000 word case report of one treated case
• submit audio/video recordings of CBT sessions for formative and summative assessment 

Fees

Please visit the Postgraduate Certificate in CBT page on the University of Oxford Graduate Admissions website for details of course fees and costs for this programme.