Counselling Psychology (D.Couns.Psych.)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Postgraduate
Degree PhD
Next Intake TBA

Course Overview

The Postgraduate Counselling Psychology (D.Couns.Psych.) at Trinity College Dublin is designed for aspiring psychologists seeking to develop advanced clinical skills and research expertise within a humanistic framework. You will explore psychodynamic, systemic, and cognitive behavioural approaches, grounded in empirical research, to address complex mental health challenges. This rigorous doctoral program is ideal for individuals with a psychology background who are passionate about applying psychological science to therapeutic practice and contributing to the field through impactful research. You will be prepared to engage with diverse client populations and contribute meaningfully to mental health services.

This full-time, on-campus program spans three years, integrating intensive coursework with extensive practical experience. You will undertake at least three distinct placements across various settings, including community, health, and private practice, gaining invaluable real-world experience. The curriculum emphasizes reflective practice, personal development, and the application of current psychological knowledge. In your second and third years, you will conduct a significant research dissertation, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of both the theoretical underpinnings and practical application of counselling psychology. You will graduate equipped for professional practice as a qualified counselling psychologist, eligible for accreditation by the Psychological Society of Ireland.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This doctoral program in Counselling Psychology offers comprehensive training across three years, integrating theoretical knowledge with practical application. Students engage in extensive skills development, including supervision, personal development, and psychotherapy training, alongside in-depth study of counselling theories and psychological assessment. The curriculum emphasizes reflective practice, professional issues, and research methodologies, culminating in a doctoral dissertation and extensive placement experience.

1 Year 1 modules include:

Small Group Supervision I
Counselling & Psychotherapy Skills Training I
Personal Development I - (Group Process, Personal Counselling)
Reflective Practice
Professional Issues in Counselling Psychology and Case Management
Theories and Approaches and Theoretical Issues in Counselling Psychology
Advanced Lifespan Developmental Psychology - Theory and Practice
Psychological Assessment I
Placements I
Research in Counselling Psychology I
Small Scale Research

2 Modules taken in Year 2 include:

Small Group Supervision II
Reflective Practice & Research
Counselling & Psychotherapy Skills Training II
Advanced Counselling & Psychotherapy Theory and its Application - Counselling Modalities I
Personal Development II (Group Process, Personal Counselling)
Research in Counselling Psychology II
Dissertation Research - Research Proposal & Literature Review
Psychological Assessment II
Placements II

3 Modules taken in Year 3 include:

Small Group Supervision III
Advanced Counselling & Psychotherapy Theory and its Application - Counselling Modalities II
Dissertation Research – Doctoral Dissertation
Placements III

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,821.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,821.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,821.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 80,463.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 864.00 - USD 1,080.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,930.00 - USD 5,613.00
Transport USD 842.00 - USD 1,965.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,404.00 - USD 2,105.00
Estimated Total USD 6,176.00 - USD 9,683.00

Living cost estimates are based on Dublin Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

93%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Training & DevelopmentEducation Policy & AdministrationEducational Support ServicesEmployment & Labor LawHealth Technology & Digital HealthHealthcare Administration & ManagementHigher Education & UniversitiesPublic Health & EpidemiologySecondary & High School EducationSpecial & Inclusive Education

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Health Service Executive

Tusla - Child and Family Agency

Why Study Counselling Psychology (D.Couns.Psych.) at Trinity College Dublin

What makes this program stand out

Top 20 in UK For Computer Science

Exeter's Computer Science department consistently ranks among the top 20 in the UK for both teaching quality and research output.

Fast Offers Quick turnaround

Exeter typically responds to applications within 2-3 weeks, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Flexible Intakes September start

Primary intake in September with January start available for some pathways through the INTO foundation program.

Accredited Industry recognized

Accredited by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT, meeting requirements for Chartered IT Professional (CITP) status.

Life at Trinity College Dublin in Ireland

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Counselling Psychology (D.Couns.Psych.) at Trinity College Dublin

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks. No separate work permit is required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

English test requirements vary by exam: Duolingo requires a total score of 120, while IELTS requires an overall score of 6.5. Check specific sub-score requirements for each test.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can work as counselling psychologists, mental health assessors, therapists, and in various health service roles.

What will I actually study in this course?

This intensive program trains students in Counselling Psychology under the scientist-practitioner model. Key subjects include research strategies and critical evaluation of methodologies.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Counselling Psychology (D.Couns.Psych.) program starts in September. Ensure you apply in advance to secure your spot.
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