The Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling program at the University of Cambridge offers a comprehensive and rigorous training for those aspiring to become qualified psychotherapeutic practitioners specializing in working with children and adolescents. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the essential theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and ethical understanding necessary to effectively support young people through various emotional, behavioral, and mental health challenges. Combining academic excellence with supervised clinical practice, the program emphasizes a holistic approach that considers developmental, psychological, and social contexts influencing young people's well-being. Students will engage in a diverse curriculum covering child development, psychotherapeutic techniques, attachment theory, trauma-informed care, and family dynamics. They will have the opportunity to participate in experiential learning, case study analyses, and reflective practice, fostering critical thinking and self-awareness vital for effective therapy. The program collaborates with recognized mental health organizations and clinics, providing students with valuable opportunities for placements and real-world experience. Graduates will be prepared for careers in private practice, educational settings, healthcare institutions, and community services. The program also encourages ongoing professional development and lifelong learning, supporting graduates to continue advancing their expertise in child and adolescent psychotherapy. Rigorous assessment methods and ongoing supervision ensure that students develop the competence and confidence required to deliver high-quality therapeutic interventions. By completing this course, students join a community of dedicated practitioners committed to improving the mental health and resilience of young people, making a tangible difference in their lives.

The course is composed of two key elements:

(i) the research methods training course and

(ii) the 'Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling' thematic route. 

Teaching time is split between the two elements, with 32 hours of teaching being given to research methods and 64 hours being given to the subject specific content.  The course is taught through a mixture of lectures, smaller group seminars and individual supervisions.

• Module 1: The Therapeutic Relationship & Therapeutic Processes
• Module 2: Professional Issues in Therapy with Children
• Module 3: Understanding Child and Adolescent Development
• Module 4: Developing Children's Social and Emotional Well Being

Feedback

Each term, written work is submitted and formative feedback is provided.  Informally, feedback is also provided through regular supervisions (three times a term).  At the end of each term, supervisors write an on-line report which can be viewed by the student via the Cambridge Graduate Supervision Reporting System.

Assessment

Thesis

The thesis is up to 20,000 words in length and submitted in mid July.

Where a candidate receives a provisional fail mark, an oral examination is required.

Essays

Students following the two year MEd programme are required to submit the following in Year 1:

• Essay 1: 6,000-6,500 words.
• Essay 2: 6,000-6,500 words.

• Magistr (Master's Degree) at Pass level. Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of good or 4/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 4/5 Bologna Bachelor's from other institutions with an overall grade of 5/5, Excellent
• Diploma Specialista (completed post-1991) with a minimum overall grade of Excellent or 5/5 Bachelor's from Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology and other prestigious institutions with an overall grade of 5/5
• IELTS (Academic) 7.5
• TOEFL Internet Score 110
• £50 application fee
• First Academic Reference
• Second Academic Reference
• Transcript
• Personal Reference. This is only required if you are applying for the Gates Cambridge Scholarship.

Extra Materials

Please upload on your self service account an essay of no more than 2,000 words, addressing the following questions:

• What is the nature of a therapeutic relationship?
• What are the processes involved in a therapeutic relationship?
• Why is the therapeutic relationship important?

The Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling program at the University of Cambridge offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for the program vary depending on the student's domicile status, with UK and EU students benefiting from different fee structures compared to international students. For domestic students, the tuition fee is charged at a standard rate set annually by the university, which covers the cost of academic instruction, access to university facilities, and other educational resources. International students, on the other hand, are subject to higher tuition fees, reflecting the additional costs associated with overseas enrollment.

In addition to the basic tuition fees, students may incur expenses related to registration, student union membership, and participation in supplementary workshops or clinical placements required as part of the curriculum. The university also provides guidance on financial planning, including estimates for living expenses in Cambridge, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and supplies. It is recommended that students budget accordingly to ensure a smooth academic experience.

Funding opportunities are available through several channels. The university offers scholarships and bursaries for outstanding students, which are typically awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. These awards are highly competitive and require a separate application process, often accompanied by personal statements and reference letters. Some scholarships are specifically targeted at students pursuing mental health or clinical psychology-related programs, including Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling.

For students requiring financial assistance, external funding options include government loans, grants, and sponsorship schemes. UK students may be eligible for student loans through the Student Loans Company, which can help cover tuition fees and living costs. International students are often advised to seek funding from their home governments or private organizations, many of which offer scholarships or financial aid programs for study abroad.

The university also provides guidance on part-time work opportunities for registered students, which can help offset living expenses. The Cambridge University Student Registry and the Careers Service offer resources and counseling for students seeking employment during their studies. Work placements and internships may also be integrated into the program, providing practical experience and potential financial benefits.

Overall, financing studies at the University of Cambridge requires careful planning and exploration of available funding sources. Prospective students are encouraged to review the university’s official financial aid pages, contact the admissions office for specific scholarship information, and consider external funding options to ensure they can fully focus on their academic and clinical training in Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling.

The Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling program at the University of Cambridge offers an in-depth exploration into the psychological development, emotional well-being, and therapeutic interventions relevant to children and adolescents. This postgraduate course is designed to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of various psychotherapeutic models and practical skills necessary for working effectively with young populations facing mental health challenges. Participants will engage with a curriculum that covers a wide range of topics, including developmental psychology, attachment theory, trauma, behavioral issues, and clinical assessment techniques.

The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and supervised clinical practice, fostering the development of reflective practitioners capable of applying evidence-based interventions in diverse settings. Students will have opportunities to observe and participate in therapeutic sessions, integrating academic learning with real-world application. The course is suitable for professionals or graduates in psychology, counseling, social work, or related disciplines seeking to specialize in child and adolescent mental health.

The University of Cambridge's prestigious reputation and rigorous academic standards ensure that graduates will be well-prepared for careers in clinical practice, research, or policy development. The program encourages critical thinking and innovation in therapeutic approaches, promoting a holistic understanding of young people's mental health needs. Furthermore, students gain access to a network of experienced practitioners, academic staff, and professional bodies, facilitating career advancement and continuous professional development.

The program typically involves a combination of taught modules, practical placements, and a research project or dissertation. It fosters a multidisciplinary approach, integrating insights from psychology, psychiatry, education, and social services. The duration of the program, entry requirements, and specific modules may vary; therefore, applicants should consult the official university website for the most detailed and updated information.

Overall, the Child and Adolescent Psychotherapeutic Counselling program at Cambridge stands out as a comprehensive, research-informed training that prepares graduates to make meaningful contributions to the mental health and well-being of young people. It is an ideal choice for those committed to advancing their expertise and making a positive impact within this specialized field.