Diploma in Integrative Counselling with a Christian Perspective
About the course
This Integrative Diploma in Counselling has been delivered for over 25 years, and one of the unique features of this course is the inclusion of a Christian Perspective as part of the core theoretical model.
The Diploma is fully validated by COSCA, the National Accrediting Body for Counselling in Scotland and by London OCN as a Level 5 course (equivalent to Level 8 in Scotland).
The course is delivered face-to-face and is supported by additional material on our online learning platform. This unique approach is approved by COSCA. Students will interact with, and have full support from, their tutors throughout the course. The face-to-face elements of the Diploma 2025-2027 will be facilitated and taught by the Course Director (Scotland) Lynn Millar alongside the Course Director (Ireland) Laura Wylie and a team of qualified, experienced tutors.
The course is part-time and is delivered over 2 years, one weekend (Friday and Saturday) per month for 10 months each year (September to June), with by a 4-day summer school at the end of June in year 1. There will also be a requirement of engagement in online learning for 1-2 hours each month in between the weekends. The venue will be confirmed nearer the time, but the course is currently held in the Mercure Hotel in Livingston.
The Programme
This programme offers training in an integrative approach to counselling, embracing the concepts of Person-Centred Counselling, Psychodynamic Counselling, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Existential Psychotherapy from a Christian perspective. Students are encouraged to grow together in a learning community that is supportive and mutually inspiring. The course material is delivered through face-to-face teaching, personal reflection, small and large group discussion and skills practice. We also have an online platform to support learning between the face-to-face sessions. Students are encouraged to read, study, practise and process the material that is presented.
The course programme is highly interactive and is taught through role-play, live teaching sessions, group work and video presentations. An online discussion forum promotes continued connections and deeper learning. The ethos of the course promotes a warm, safe environment that is free from fear, criticism and coercion. Participants will have the opportunity to produce and participate in individual written assignments, group projects and group work.
Award
Learners exit the programme with a COSCA-recognised Diploma in Integrative Counselling, with a Christian Perspective. Students living in the UK can be accredited by the BACP and COSCA (in Scotland). The course has 400 hours of Class/Tutor Contact, 100 hours of client work in a suitable centre, with a ratio of Supervision 1:6.
Following completion of the Diploma, students have the option of undertaking further study to obtain a BA (Hons) in Counselling, validated by Middlesex University, in Waverley Abbey, Surrey or Level 8 BSc (Hons) in Counselling and Psychotherapy through PCI College in Dublin and Belfast or IICP in Dublin. Those with a primary degree can be admitted to the master’s programmes in these colleges.
Who should apply?
This programme is designed for people who wish to become professional therapists or for those who may use counselling skills as part of their work, either in a paid or voluntary capacity. It is of special interest to those who work within the caring professions, community settings or in pastoral care.
Entry requirements
Applicants are required to complete an application form, undergo an Interview with two core tutors and supply two references. Selection procedures will apply, and prospective students must be able to:
- Articulate their interest in the therapeutic field and their reasons for pursuing this course of study both on their application form and in the interview process
- Produce evidence of prior educational attainment (see application form for further details) and ability to engage in the written assignments. A Certificate in Counselling (or equivalent) is a pre-requisite
- Show evidence of emotional maturity and self-awareness
Applications
The online application form will be made available on this website in November 2026.
For more details about the course, you can download the information brochure here .
Applications open in November 2026
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