Counselling

Counselling is a professional discipline concerned with creating the conditions in which individuals can explore difficulties, find greater self-understanding, and work towards change. Grounded in psychological theory and developed through supervised practice, counselling draws on a range of therapeutic frameworks, including cognitive behavioural approaches, person-centred practice, and psychodynamic models, applying them thoughtfully to the needs of individual clients. The field has grown substantially as awareness of mental health and the value of talking therapies has increased, and qualified counsellors work in a wide range of settings across health, education, and community contexts.

At Teesside University, this part-time programme gives you flexibility in how you manage your studies, making it accessible to those who are already working in health or social care, or who have other commitments alongside their learning. You will engage with the principles and practices of counselling, including the cognitive behavioural therapy framework and its evidence base, drawing on clinical guidelines and current research to understand how psychological distress is formulated and treated. Collaborative working with clients is emphasised throughout, developing the listening, empathic, and reflective skills that effective therapeutic relationships depend on.

Part-time study allows you to integrate learning with any related professional experience you may have, building the kind of reflective practice that counselling training demands.

Graduates of counselling programmes work in NHS psychological therapy services, voluntary sector organisations, employee assistance programmes, schools, universities, and private practice. Many pursue further professional development and accreditation through bodies such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. Others continue to postgraduate study in psychotherapy, clinical psychology, mental health, or social work, deepening their therapeutic expertise or broadening their professional scope.

The empathic, analytical, and relational skills developed through counselling training are also valued in roles such as human resources, social care, education, and community work.