This programme equips practitioners to practice CBT at a high-intensity level. It is aimed at staff who work with a range of presentations in their daily practice, and would equip you with a BABCP-accredited Postgraduate Diploma. Here you can find out more about this course, who is eligible to apply, how the course is assessed and how to apply.

Frequently asked questions

What is CBT?

Cognitive behavioural therapies, or CBT, are a range of talking therapies based on the theory that thoughts, feelings, what we do and how our body feels are all connected. If we change one of these we can alter the others. When people feel worried or distressed we often fall into patterns of thinking and responding which can worsen how we feel. CBT works to help us notice and change problematic thinking styles or behaviour patterns so we can feel better. CBT has lots of strategies that can help you in the here and now.  (source: BABCP)

Would I be suitable?

The course is suitable for anyone who already has a foundation in CBT skills. You would need to have:

  • Level 6 qualification, and
  • a core profession recognised by BABCP. 

OR

  • Eligibility to complete the course via the KSA route

Level 6 qualification is usually an undergraduate degree or equivalent – see a full list of Level 6 qualification examples. ‘KSA’ stands for ‘Knowledge Skills and Attitude’ and involves completing a portfolio throughout the year to show how your current skills match the level necessary for a core profession. To be eligible for the KSA route you would need to have a minimum of 2 years’ relevant full-time equivalent therapeutic experience in a mental health setting. Find out more about the KSA route on the BABCP website.

How does the training work?

The course runs for one year, between January and December. This is a training course funded by Health Education England, so you would be studying at the University of Exeter 2 days a week and working in a children’s mental health service 2-3 days per week. You are employed directly by your service, so would apply for a role with them and then be put forward for the course.

What topics will I be studying?

You will study the following academic modules as part of the course. Click on the links to find out more information:

  • PYCM027 – Core Skills for Working with Young People with Mental Health Problems and Their Families
  • PYCM028 – Evidence-based CBT with Children and Young People

What clinical work would I complete?

In order to meet accreditation level you will complete 200 hours of CBT practice over the course of the year. You would be working with children and young people experiencing mild to moderate mental health difficulties such as depression and anxiety. 

How is the course assessed?

The course is assessed via both clinical and academic work, including the following:

  • essays
  • videotaped assessment and therapy sessions
  • case reports
  • case presentations
  • supervision reports
  • reflective logs

Is the course accredited?

Yes, this course is accredited by BABCP.

How do I apply?

Recruitment for trainees for January 2023 has now closed. Our next intake of practitioners will be for January 2024. To see current job vacancies, check the ‘Latest Jobs’ section of our website, search on NHS jobs, or check the following websites for services that have recruited CBT trainees in the past year:

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to express an interest in the course please contact us.

For further information: