IITHE Level 4 Diploma in Counselling and Psychology

Overview

The IITHE Level 4 Diploma in Counselling and Psychology is designed to provide learners with foundational knowledge and practical skills in both counselling and psychological theories. This qualification prepares students to support individuals through psychological challenges and therapeutic processes, offering a blend of theoretical understanding and practical application.

The course covers key areas such as therapeutic techniques, psychological theories, and the ethical considerations involved in counselling and psychology. It aims to equip learners with the skills necessary to pursue further study or enter the professional field of counselling and psychology.

Entry Requirements:
  • Typically aimed at learners aged 18 and above.
  • Entry profile may include:
    • Relevant Level 3 qualification or equivalent
    • GCE Advanced Level in at least two subjects, or equivalent qualifications
    • Mature learners (aged 21 and over) with relevant experience in counselling or mental health (verification with the centre may be required)

English Requirements: Learners from non-majority English-speaking countries must provide evidence of English language proficiency. For more information, please refer to our English Language Requirements page.

Equivalences: The IITHE Level 4 Diploma in Counselling and Psychology is equivalent to Higher National Certificates (HNC) and the first year of a UK Bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field.

Qualification Structure: The diploma consists of six mandatory units, totaling 120 credits, with 1200 Total Qualification Time (TQT) hours and a minimum of 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).

Mandatory Units:
  1. Introduction to Counselling and Psychology (20 Credits)
    Provides an overview of key concepts and practices in counselling and psychology, including foundational theories and methods.
  2. Counselling Skills and Techniques (20 Credits)
    Focuses on practical counselling skills, including communication techniques, active listening, and therapeutic interventions.
  3. Theories of Psychology (20 Credits)
    Examines major psychological theories and their applications, including cognitive, behavioral, and psychodynamic approaches.
  4. Human Development and Behaviour (20 Credits)
    Explores the psychological development of individuals across the lifespan, including developmental stages and behavioral changes.
  5. Ethics and Professional Practice in Counselling (20 Credits)
    Covers ethical considerations, professional standards, and legal issues in counselling and psychological practice.
  6. Psychological Assessment and Evaluation (20 Credits)
    Provides knowledge on various methods of psychological assessment, including diagnostic tools, evaluation techniques, and interpreting results.
Duration and Delivery:
  • Duration: Typically completed over two academic years for full-time learners, with flexible options for part-time or distance learning.
  • Delivery Methods: The course is delivered through face-to-face lectures, tutorials, and seminars, as well as distance and online learning through approved centers.
Assessment and Verification:
  • All units are internally assessed by the institution and externally verified by IITHE.
  • Assessments are criterion-referenced, focusing on the achievement of specified learning outcomes.
  • Assessors provide an audit trail to demonstrate learners’ achievement of assessment criteria.
Progression Opportunities: 

Upon completion of the IITHE Level 4 Diploma in Counselling and Psychology, learners can progress to:

  • IITHE Level 5 Diploma in Counselling and Psychology
  • Further academic studies, such as a Bachelor’s degree in psychology or related fields.
  • Professional roles in counselling, psychotherapy, or mental health support.