Why should I choose SPCP?

These are answers to some frequently asked questions from those considering where to train in psychotherapy and counselling.

Questions & Answers

I have no previous experience in counselling or psychotherapy, and I have no idea where to begin. Does your institution offer courses which are for the complete beginner?

Yes we do. We have a full range of foundation courses including: one year, six month and five week intensive summer courses which give you an excellent foundation for continuing your training either with ourselves or others.

If I do decide to continue my training beyond foundation level, can you give me a full training which will enable me to be a professionally qualified counsellor or psychotherapist?

Yes we can. At this School it is possible to enter into the programme as a complete beginner, and continue, subject to satisfactory interview at points of entry, all the way to PhD level. You will not suddenly discover that you need to find another training institution to complete your qualifications. In this prospectus you will find an outline of our courses and the qualifications they provide.

I already have counselling and/or psychotherapy qualifications. Are there various different entry levels onto your courses, or must I have done most of my training at your institution?

Your existing qualifications will be considered in relation to our own training and, subject to satisfactory interview, they may well enable you to join our courses at advanced points of entry. You are very welcome to contact us to discuss the most appropriate point for you.

Are your courses recognised and/or accredited by the relevant bodies, and by completing your courses, can I become an accredited counsellor, or registered psychotherapist?

Yes. Both our MA/PGDip course and the Professional Doctorate in Counselling Psychology are validated by The University of Wales.  After completion of the first year of one of our two-year Advanced Diploma courses, trainees will have accumulated contact hours that may be counted towards meeting criterion 1.i of the BACP Accreditation Criteria. Candidates must note that they will also have to meet criteria 2 - 6 of the BACP Scheme. Full completion of the Advanced Diploma course leads to eligibility to apply for registration as a psychotherapist with UKCP.

I have found many institutions which offer me a qualification in two or three years. Why should I choose a training that takes any longer than that?

The United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy has stipulated that training leading to registration with them as a psychotherapist should take at least four years, in addition to a Foundation training. Our courses have been constructed with that in mind. You may find courses that will give you a qualification in less time, but you may then find that you have to do further training, that is not available in the institution you trained with, to gain extra elements required by the UKCP. If you do not decide to complete a full psychotherapy training with us, other qualifications are achievable en route.

There seem to be enormous differences in the fee structures of different institutions. Can you explain this to me?

We understand that it may be tempting to opt for a training that is at the less expensive end of the market. However, you must ask yourself whether you are gaining a widely recognised and respected counselling or psychotherapy training that enables you to apply for registration with the relevant bodies. At SPCP you will receive professional training that is second to none, backed by the vast experience and professionalism of our permanent and part-time faculty and in a magnificent location.

I am unsure as to which path I wish to follow. Does your institution offer me the opportunity to reflect upon different ideas and approaches before making a decision as to which type of counsellor or psychotherapist I wish to be?

Yes we do offer you that opportunity. At many institutions you must choose your theoretical orientation at the commencement of training. What frequently happens is that people are some way through their training, and then discover that the theoretical framework they are concentrating upon is not what they are looking for. They then have to switch direction, which often means changing institutions, or even starting again. At SPCP, you will be exposed to many different thoughts and ideas in the pre-professional phase, and following this phase, you may adjust your route through your training to suit your needs.

Does your faculty consist of permanent staff who are high-profile members of the psychotherapeutic profession, or is teaching mostly done by part-time faculty who attend only to cover their teaching commitments?

We have a body of permanent faculty, who are available at times other than when they teach. This availability of permanent faculty permits ongoing meetings and discussions designed to continue the development and enrichment of our courses. All our faculty members have published widely, as you can see from the list of their recent book and journal publications included in this prospectus.

Does your institution offer the support of a comprehensive library and IT facilities?

Yes we do. You will have access to a well-stocked psychotherapy, counselling and psychology library. You will have access to the web, e-mail, word processing and other IT facilities. Some students will also have access to the library at City University. Our PhD candidates have full borrowing rights with Senate House library at London University.

Are class numbers so large that it may be difficult for me to engage and learn?

No. Although SPCP is among the largest psychotherapy training institutions in the UK, our courses take place in small and medium sized classes which allows attention to individuals and class discussion. Groups are intended to generate an atmosphere of support and co-operation which enhances the learning process.

Who will be my co-trainees?

Students are drawn from a wide spectrum of background and experience, normally with a minimum age of 25. While most of our students are in their 30s and 40s, we have a substantial number of students in their 50s and 60s. Our students come from a variety of cultural and ethnic backgrounds.

Is your institution easy to get to and conducive to study?

The School is ten minutes walk away from Baker Street tube station in Central London. We are situated in the heart of Regent's Park, and student life is considerably enhanced by the aesthetic qualities of the site, which we believe are without equal. See how to find us page.

How do I find out more?

We have regular Informal Advisory Meetings, where you may find the answers to your many questions. Please phone us on 020 7487 7731 to book a place.