Course Curriculum

The course team regularly evaluates the curriculum and adjusts content in line with new research, thinking, awareness, and protocols.

Year One — Indicative Curriculum

January 2027 – December 2027

1.

Overview of organic and non-organic presentations

2.

The couple and other relationships

3.

Treatment options and approaches

4.

Models of assessment and history taking

5.

Formulation and treatment plans — the integration of behavioural techniques within psychosexual and relationship psychotherapy

6.

Consideration of MoU2 and GSRD relating to PRT assessment

7.

Trauma (including developmental and minority stress/trauma)

8.

Differentiation; David Schnarch with couples

9.

Imago — Harville Hendrix

10.

Risk assessment: Out of control sexual behaviours and relationship violence

11.

Erotic transference

12.

Working with survivors of sexual abuse

13.

Couples in conflict

14.

Working with diversity/trans presentations, including men, women, and non-binary expressions

Year 1

Year Two — Indicative Curriculum

January 2028 – December 2028

1.

Ethical and legal practice

2.

Inclusivity and cultural sensitivity

3.

Solution-focused approaches to include CBT and Sue Johnson EFT

4.

T.A. with couples

5.

Developmental couples therapy: The work of Bader-Pearson

6.

Psychiatric presentations and co-morbid psychiatric, medical and psychosocial conditions

7.

STIs and anatomy of arousal

8.

"Affairs" and non-consensual non-monogamy

9.

Heterosexuality, homosexuality, bisexuality and LGBTIQ+ relationship models vs. dual intimate systems

10.

Alternative sexual and relationship presentations

11.

Critical review

12.

Practice management

Assessment

How You Are Assessed

Three Critical Incidents Essay

5,000 words — Reflective

Research Project

5,000 words

Case Study

5,000 words

Supervisors' Reports

3 reports + 1,000-word reflective essay — Non-assessed

Clinical Placement

150 Hours of Clinical Practice

Students complete 150 hours of supervised clinical practice through approved placements, private practice, or workplace-based therapeutic work.

Through a clinical placement in the UK, Europe, or further afield. Approximately 200 places available — NHS, voluntary, or third sector.
By sourcing your own placement at work or elsewhere. All new placements are audited.
Using private practice, having been permitted to do so by your supervisor.