Centre of Therapy

I want to be a therapist – where do I start?
Where to begin depends a great deal on your experience skills and knowledge, but the following guidelines should give you an indication of what will be required.

I  have no experience, background or qualifications in Therapy or Counselling?

Your entry point will most likely be the the COSCA certificate in Counselling Skills.  There are no entry requirements for this course, which provides a starting point in listening, responding and communication skills.

As it is an experiential course, you will learn first hand through practice with your fellow students.  By the end of the course, you will have good knowledge of various therapeutic approaches and basic counselling tools.

Upon completion, you may apply for a place on the SCOTACS Diploma Course.

I have experience in counselling or one-to-one roles, but not in Therapy or CBT (Cognitive Behavioural  Therapy)

You may wish to consider the CBT Toolkit, which is an intensive 5 day course held over 1 week (4 days) with a further review day 2 months later.  This course provides those who already have some experience in a client-facing role a sound foundation in using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy tools in a therapeutic environment.

I have ongoing Counselling experience (current) and/or existing relevant qualifications

Should you already be working in a counselling capacity and have good knowledge of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), you may apply for a place on the SCOTACS Diploma course.  Group interviews will be held from March onwards and until August, prior to the September course start.

At interview, you will be asked to submit an essay on a particular aspect of Therapy, and you will be required to show good self-awareness and experience of working within a counselling role.  If successful, you will be required to provide 2 references prior to receiving an unconditional place on the course.

What does it cost and how do I pay?

A deposit is required for each course to secure your place, and the remaining amount may be paid by monthly installments over the period of study.  There is a 5% administration fee for this facility.  Deposits and installment amounts are as follows.

Course       Full Cost        Deposit            Monthly Installment
COSCA        £250             £50                   2 x £100
CBT TK       £575             £100                 In full prior to course start
1 Yr Cert     £3075           £250                 12 x £247.18
2 Yr Dip      £6150           £250                  24 x £247.18 (over 24 months)

Contact the Centre of Therapy for further information