Psychology with Counselling

Psychology with counselling is a degree that combines the scientific study of mind and behaviour with an introduction to the theories and skills that underlie therapeutic practice. Psychology as a discipline uses empirical methods to understand how people think, feel, learn, and relate to others, building an evidence base that informs clinical practice and our understanding of human wellbeing. Counselling brings a more relational and practice-focused dimension, introducing you to the therapeutic frameworks used to support people experiencing emotional difficulties, and developing the listening, empathy, and interpersonal skills that effective helping relationships require.

At Nottingham Trent University, this three-year programme gives you a thorough grounding in psychology as an academic discipline, covering the main areas including cognitive psychology, social psychology, developmental psychology, biological psychology, and abnormal psychology, alongside modules that introduce counselling theory and practice. You will explore person-centred, psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioural approaches to counselling, learning how different theoretical frameworks conceptualise human experience and distress. Research methods are a central part of the curriculum, and you will develop quantitative and qualitative skills that prepare you both for further academic study and for evidence-based practice in applied settings.

Graduates from psychology with counselling programmes go on to a range of careers in health, wellbeing, and social care. Many choose to pursue further professional qualifications in counselling or psychotherapy, for which this degree provides a strong foundation and, in many cases, recognition of prior learning. Clinical psychology, educational psychology, and forensic psychology are further routes requiring postgraduate training.

Graduates also work in roles that draw on psychological understanding without clinical qualification, including human resources, coaching, community and youth work, and education. Some move into research roles or continue to postgraduate study in psychology, counselling, or related disciplines such as social work or occupational therapy.