Psychodynamic Counselling

The Postgraduate Certificate in Psychodynamic Counselling provides a broadly based exploration of psychodynamic theory, philosophy and practice, and includes self-exploration. It is part of the Oxford University’s Master’s Programme in Psychodynamic Studies, which is accredited by the UPCA (Universities Psychotherapy and Counselling Association).

The PG Certificate will be of interest to those seeking to

• Develop their understanding of psychodynamic theory and practice
• Prepare for professional training, such as this programme’s PG Diploma in Psychodynamic Practice

What the course offers

The course is part-time, held on Wednesday evenings from 6-9.15pm over three ten-week terms with two Saturday workshops. The number of students is usually about 24. Teaching takes place in both whole group and smaller group sessions, with two individual tutorials per term.

Course evenings commence with a theory-and-practice workshop (6.00 to 7.30 pm) where each week one of the course tutors provides an introduction to central psychodynamic concepts, followed by exercises and/or structured discussions. After a coffee break/library period there are experiential groups (8.00 to 9.15 pm) conducted by Group Analysts who take no other part in the course. On the last week of each term the workshop sessions take the form of revision seminars, while the experiential groups are replaced by a course community review meeting with all members of the course including the Course Tutors.

To aid study, papers and books will be recommended. Extensive regular reading and private study of at least 10 hours per week between the taught periods is recommended.

The Certificate course runs annually, while the Diploma and Masters courses are on a two year cycle. A post-certificate seminar series is held on alternate years, when there is not an intake for the Diploma directly following the Certificate. The seminar series gives the opportunity for consolidation of certificate learning and facilitates a progression in psychodynamic thinking.

Accreditation

The Masters Programme is accredited by the UPCA (Universities Psychotherapy and Counselling Association). Students who complete the full programme and the necessary clinical hours will be eligible for professional accreditation via UPCA with UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) as a psychotherapeutic counsellor. In addition, those that wish may apply individually to the BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy).

Theory and Practice Workshops

Each term is organised around a key dimension of psychodynamic practice, though a constant feature throughout the course is the inclusion of theoretical, personal and clinical aspects of counselling work. Revision seminars are timetabled to conclude each term.

Michaelmas term: The Psychodynamic Approach
Possible topics include – Beginnings; Social and historical developments in psychoanalytic/psychodynamic ideas and approaches; Core psychodynamic concepts; Personality development; Ingredients of healing; Current theoretical developments.

Hilary term: Therapeutic Processes and Skills
Possible topics include – Developing a Therapeutic Alliance; Working with the Transference; Working with the Countertransference; Internal supervision; Therapeutic interventions.

Trinity term: Therapeutic, Practical and Ethical Implications
Possible topics include – The Therapeutic Frame; the setting; Assessment and contracting; Referrals; Dynamic administration; Ethical issues; Endings.

The aim of the theory-and-practice workshops is to enable students to develop a broad knowledge of psychodynamic counselling theory, philosophy and techniques.

Experiential Groups

These agenda-less groups are conducted by Group Analysts who take no other part in the course. The groups are intended to assist students to support one another through the course, to reflect in an unstructured way on their experience of learning, and to increase their capacity for self-awareness in relation to others on the course. Although students may wish to bring personal material to the groups, these are not therapy groups. The groups are aimed at facilitating the development of students as reflective counsellors and to encourage the self-reflection central to the psychodynamic approach.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be by coursework. The four assignments will each count for 25% of the final mark. To be successfully awarded the Certificate, you will need to meet attendance requirements, pass each assignment and receive a satisfactory tutor report. Full regulations and examination conventions can be obtained from the Registry, OUDCE, Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA.

Course outcome

By the end of the course students should have achieved:

• a broad understanding of the central psychodynamic counselling theories and concepts studied
• the ability to analyse psychodynamic schools of thought and the writings/clinical practice of individual psychodynamic authors carefully
• a level of competence to, where appropriate, commence supervised psychodynamic clinical counselling work with clients/patients on placement
• a level of competence to apply psychodynamic therapeutic skills to workplace settings.

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in any subject.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA normally sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Relevant and suitable qualifications and/or professional experience may be accepted as alternative evidence of eligibility for the course.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement:Around 500 words
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Financing studies for the MSc in Psychodynamic Counselling at the University of Oxford can be approached through various funding options available to prospective students. The university offers a range of scholarships, bursaries, and loan schemes to support students financially throughout their course. Specific scholarships for this programme may include university-wide awards, which are competitive and based on academic merit or financial need. Additionally, there are subject-specific grants and professional development funding opportunities that applicants can consider.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as government loan schemes, private bursaries, and sector-specific sponsorship programs that support postgraduate mental health and counselling studies. The UK government offers postgraduate loans for eligible students undertaking master's degrees, which can be used to cover tuition fees and living expenses. These loans are repayable after graduation once a certain income threshold is met. International students may need to seek alternative funding options unless they qualify for specific scholarship programs designed for international students.

Applicants are advised to consult the university’s dedicated funding and scholarships webpage for detailed information about eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines. It is also recommended to contact the university’s financial aid office directly for personalized guidance and to learn about any additional funding opportunities that might be available during the academic year.

Living costs in Oxford should also be considered when budgeting for the programme. These costs include accommodation, food, transport, books, and personal expenses. The university provides estimates of living costs, and students should plan accordingly. Some students may be eligible for part-time work opportunities on or near campus, which can help offset living expenses, provided this does not interfere with their studies.

Students are advised to start their funding applications early to ensure they meet all necessary deadlines and to increase their chances of securing financial support. Overall, while the cost of studying at Oxford can be significant, a range of funding options exists to assist students in financing their MSc in Psychodynamic Counselling, making this esteemed programme accessible to a diverse student body.

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive programme in Psychodynamic Counselling that is designed to equip students with a deep understanding of psychoanalytic principles and practical counselling skills. The programme emphasizes the study of both the theoretical foundations of psychoanalysis and their application within therapeutic settings. Students engage with core topics such as the development of psychodynamic theory, transference and countertransference, the unconscious mind, and the therapeutic relationship. The curriculum typically combines rigorous academic coursework with supervised clinical practice, enabling students to develop both their analytical skills and their ability to work empathetically with clients.

The programme aims to prepare graduates for professional practice as psychodynamic counsellors or psychotherapists in various settings, including mental health services, private practice, and healthcare organisations. It also provides a solid foundation for those wishing to pursue further research or academic careers in psychoanalytic theory and clinical psychology. Admission to the programme generally requires applicants to have a relevant undergraduate degree, preferably in psychology, counselling, or related disciplines, alongside relevant work or voluntary experience in mental health settings.

Students benefit from the University of Oxford's renowned faculty comprising experienced clinicians, researchers, and theorists who provide mentorship and supervision throughout their studies. The programme may include lectures, seminars, case discussions, and practical workshops, fostering a dynamic learning environment. Assessment methods often involve written assignments, clinical case studies, and practical examinations to evaluate students’ understanding and application of psychodynamic concepts.

Graduates of the programme are expected to demonstrate advanced knowledge of psychoanalytic theory combined with applied clinical skills necessary for effective counselling practice. They are also taught to critically evaluate contemporary debates within psychoanalysis and mental health fields. Upon completion, students receive an official qualification that enhances their professional credibility and offers a pathway towards registration with professional bodies such as the British Psychoanalytic Society or the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, depending on specific programme pathways.

The programme’s collaborative and research-oriented approach reflects Oxford’s commitment to advancing psychoanalytic science and clinical practice. It encourages students to engage with current research, participate in seminars and conferences, and contribute to scholarly discourse in mental health and psychodynamic therapy. Overall, this programme at the University of Oxford aims to develop skilled, reflective, and ethically responsible practitioners capable of making a meaningful impact in the lives of their clients and the broader mental health community.