Last modified: 06 Aug 2025 14:46
Delving into theoretical underpinnings and research findings in counselling and psychotherapy, students explore a range of theories, and how these shape therapeutic practices and guide empirical studies. The course also emphasises applying research in counselling and psychotherapy, teaching students to evaluate research literature, identify gaps, and formulate research inquiries. Ultimately, it aims to produce well-rounded learners who can integrate theory, research, and practice in this field.
| Study Type | Undergraduate | Level | 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Term | First Term | Credit Points | 15 credits (7.5 ECTS credits) |
| Campus | Aberdeen | Sustained Study | No |
| Co-ordinators |
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This course aims to help students to deepen their knowledge of theoretical underpinnings and research findings shaping the ever-evolving landscape of counselling and psychotherapy.
Over the course duration, students will navigate through a diverse range of counselling and psychotherapy theories, from classic perspectives such as psychoanalysis and cognitive-behavioural therapy to modern, integrative models including humanistic, existential, and pluralistic therapy. Students will glean valuable insights into how these theoretical perspectives directly influence therapeutic approach and guide empirical studies in counselling and psychotherapy.
In addition to theory, this course emphasises the importance of translating research findings into everyday practice. This course focuses specifically on applying research in the context of counselling and psychotherapy. Students will learn to critically appraise pertinent research literature, identify research gaps, and formulate relevant research inquiries within the field of counselling and psychotherapy.
Theoretical Underpinnings: This module provides an in-depth exploration of numerous counselling and psychotherapy theories. Students will journey through time, tracing the evolution of therapeutic theories from classic therapy to contemporary, integrative models. The goal here is to equip students with a broad yet detailed theoretical perspective and understanding.
Research in Context: This course focuses on understanding and applying research findings within the unique context of counselling and psychotherapy. Students will learn how to critically appraise and interpret relevant research literature. This, combined with the identification of research gaps and the formulation of pertinent research inquiries, empowers students to bring theory and practice together in a meaningful, evidence-based manner.
Applying Theory to Practice: An integral part of this course involves understanding the application of theory into everyday therapeutic practice. Learners will examine case studies, participate in interactive discussions, and engage with real-world scenarios where they'll witness first-hand the impact of theoretical understanding on therapeutic strategies and outcomes.
Interactive Learning: The course utilises a blended learning approach, combining traditional lectures, interactive seminars, and guided self-study. Inclusive assessments allow students to choose from options such as a written essay, oral presentation, or poster presentation.
By the end of this module, students will possess a robust understanding of counselling and psychotherapy theories, enhanced research literacy specific to these fields, and a refined capability to integrate theory, research, and practice in an ethical and professional manner.
Information on contact teaching time is available from the course guide.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 100 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | 33 | Feedback Weeks | 37 | |
| Feedback |
20-minute Poster Presentation worth 100% of the course grade. Students can expect detailed comments and constructive feedback addressing various aspects of their work, including content, structure, coherence, and clarity. In addition to written feedback, for the oral presentation and poster presentation formats, some informal oral feedback may also be given. This could involve brief discussions or comments provided during or after the presentation. The oral feedback aims to offer immediate insights and encourage further reflection and growth. |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Conceptual | Understand | Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the range of counselling and psychotherapy theories. |
| Procedural | Apply | Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world therapeutic situations and case studies. |
| Procedural | Evaluate | Critically evaluate and interpret research literature pertinent to counselling and psychotherapy. |
There are no assessments for this course.
| Assessment Type | Summative | Weighting | 100 | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment Weeks | 50 | Feedback Weeks | 2 | |
| Feedback |
Resit Poster Presentation. Students will be required to upload their completed workto the My Aberdeen. Feedback on their submissions will be provided in a written format. Students can expect detailed comments and constructive feedback addressing various aspects of their work, including content, structure, coherence, and clarity. |
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
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| Knowledge Level | Thinking Skill | Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Procedural | Evaluate | Critically evaluate and interpret research literature pertinent to counselling and psychotherapy. |
| Conceptual | Understand | Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the range of counselling and psychotherapy theories. |
| Procedural | Apply | Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world therapeutic situations and case studies. |
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