Doctorate Degrees in Psychotherapy

Psychotherapy is form of therapy practice which deals with personal, emotional, psychological and behavioural challenges. Psychotherapists employ various theoretical approaches, such as psychodynamic, humanistic and cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), to help their clients overcome psychological issues and achieve lasting personal growth.

Pursuing a Doctorate in Psychotherapy in the UK can take between three to seven years, and involves substantial person-to-person work, and often includes advanced research projects. Candidates require a master’s degree and proven-clinical experience to gain enrolment onto a course.

There are 11 psychotherapy doctorate courses available in the UK, and graduates of these courses are well prepared to become practitioners for advanced clinical work, supervision, research and leadership roles within the field of mental health

What to expect

You can expect many years of learning and experiential research work. Each programme includes a supervised clinical component where you’ll be applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. You’ll refine your therapeutic skills, deepen your self-awareness and find opportunities to specialise in a specific psychotherapeutic approach or field of thought.

Most psychotherapy students undergo personal therapy as part of their course, giving an additional component of self-learning and personal development which both aids your education as a psychotherapists, and bring new perspectives to your own life.

After obtaining your doctorate, you’ll be well prepared for leadership roles within the field and capable of making substantial contributions to the mental health profession. The Professional Doctorate of Psychotherapy and Counselling is the highest level of qualification available, and it enables you to practise as counsellors or therapists in the UK, and in other countries with equivalent professional and academic standards.