Reflect On Academy
COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOTHERAPY TRAINING IN PURLEY, CROYDON, EASY REACH OF SUTTON, WALLINGTON, CATERHAM, SOUTH EAST LONDON AND SURREY
Level 6 Diploma Courses
Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy - Level 6
Programme Overview:
The Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy (Level 6) is a professional post-qualification training programme designed for qualified counsellors and psychotherapists who wish to extend their practice into the field of couple and relationship work. Rooted in systemic, psychodynamic, humanistic, and attachment-informed approaches, the course offers an integrative framework for understanding relational dynamics, emotional connection, and therapeutic communication. The programme supports practitioners in developing the insight, confidence, and ethical grounding needed to engage effectively with couples and intimate relationship systems in diverse contexts.
It is designed to deepen and extend existing clinical practice through advanced theoretical understanding, reflective learning, and the application of relational therapy models.
Key course features
Qualification: Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy
Level: 6
Mode of Study: Part-time (classroom and zoom)
Duration: 1 year (15 days training)
GLH: 100 (in person and virtual learning environment via video (Zoom)1.
Total Qualification Time: 600 (Guided learning hours (taught sessions, group discussions, and tutor-led activities), and independent study time (reading, reflection, written work, skills practice, and assignment preparation).
Attendance: Minimum 80% required
Programme Start Date: September 2026 (flexible start date)
Accreditation: Quality License Scheme (QLS)
Progression: Provides a developmental bridge to further Level 7 post-qualifying study. Successful completion evidences specialist post-qualification training in couple and relationship therapy and may support progression to further Level 7 study.
Requirements for Practicum Work Experience: The programme does not include a formal clinical placement.
Fees: £1,950 yearly. (£500* non-refundable deposit paid in advance or with Registration and £1450 balance by monthly instalments (10x145 = £1450) *.
Discount of 10% if paid in full.
Flexible Payment by Instalment
- Payments by monthly standing order or direct debit only.
- 10% discount for payment in full.
- Payments commence one month after interview.
- Deposit of £500 required.
Admission Entry Requirements
Who is This Course For?
This course is not a qualifying training and does not lead directly to professional registration. It is suitable for qualified counsellors, psychotherapists, and supervisors who wish to expand their practice into couple and relationship work. It also welcomes practitioners with an interest in systemic and integrative approaches to relational dynamics, as well as professionals seeking CPD hours and structured theoretical development without the requirement of a formal placement..
Entry Requirements
Candidates must complete an application form and meet the following course-specific entry requirements:
- A recognised Level 5 counselling or psychotherapy qualification (completed within the last 5 years)
- A minimum of 2 years’ post-qualification counselling or psychotherapy experience with adult clients
- Current professional membership with a recognised professional body (e.g. BACP, UKCP, COSRT)
- Professional indemnity insurance
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- A 500-word personal statement outlining motivation, learning goals, and relevance to current practice
- Two referee reports (character and professional suitability)
- Interview (online or in person)
- Agreement to uphold confidentiality and professional boundaries within seminars and group learning discussions
Applicants are expected to demonstrate self-awareness and reflexive capacity, emotional readiness for post-qualifying study, and the ability to work relationally and make use of feedback. The admissions process also explores awareness of difference, equality and oppression, including willingness to reflect on bias, power and privilege, and to identify appropriate personal and professional support.
Admission decisions are based on the written application, references and interview.
Safeguarding Note
DBS clearance is not required by the provider, as this course does not include a placement component. However, learners must meet any safeguarding requirements set by their own workplace or setting. Where this is not in place, learners will be required to undertake the Reflect-On Academy Level 3 Safeguarding Certificate (endorsed by QLS).
The Course's Philosophic Rationale
This programme is grounded in the belief that effective couple therapy requires the integration of theoretical understanding, emotional presence, and reflective practice. Learners are invited to explore how interpersonal patterns, attachment histories, and systemic influences shape relationship functioning and therapeutic engagement.
The course emphasises personal insight, professional ethics, and a pluralistic approach that honours diversity, cultural context, and the complexity of human relationships. Its philosophy is rooted in reflective and experiential learning, encouraging practitioners to deepen empathy, manage countertransference, and engage with relational dynamics in a balanced, ethical, and self-aware manner.
The Aims of the programme
The Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy programme aims to develop practitioners’ knowledge, skills, and reflexivity for ethical and effective couple work. It strengthens integrative understanding of relational dynamics, communication, attachment, intimacy, and therapeutic boundaries, supporting learners to work confidently with complex presentations. Through reflective and practice-informed learning, participants consolidate theory and application to facilitate meaningful and sustainable change in couple relationships.
Course Structure
The Level 6 Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy is delivered part-time over 12 months, combining 100 hours of taught contact, excluding private study. The programme is structured around five interconnected units that build progressively from foundational theory to advanced integrative practice. Each unit deepens understanding of relational dynamics, systemic formulation, and therapeutic use of self, while supporting ethical and culturally sensitive engagement with diverse couple presentations.
Learners engage in tutor-led seminars, experiential workshops, role-play, and supervision-style case consultation. The curriculum is grounded in systemic, psychodynamic, attachment-informed, and humanistic approaches, with emphasis on reflective integration and relational depth. The course is designed for qualified practitioners seeking to expand into couple and relationship work, without the requirement of formal placement.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching is delivered through a blend of seminars, live demonstrations, skills labs, and supervision-style case consultation. Learners participate in experiential exercises, role-play, guided reading, and reflective journaling. The learning environment encourages peer dialogue, collaborative feedback, and critical engagement with diverse relational contexts.
Assessment is designed to support reflective, integrative learning. Tasks include essays, case studies, creative projects, quizzes, and group presentations. These methods prioritise ethical reasoning, systemic mapping, and the application of theory to practice, with an emphasis on developmental progression rather than high-stakes grading..
Course Units and Content
The five units explore key dimensions of couple and relationship therapy:
- Foundations of Couple Counselling – ethical contracting, assessment of relational dynamics, integrative frameworks for working with couples and research-informed relationship counselling.
- Communication Patterns and Conflict Dynamics – exploration of interactional patterns, conflict processes, emotional regulation, and contemporary relational challenges, including digital communication.
- Working with Attachment Styles and Early Imprints – understanding attachment theory, early relational experiences, neurobiological and psychosocial influences, and their impact on adult relationships across the life course.
- Sexual Intimacy and Emotional Closeness – examination of intimacy, emotional connection, mental health influences, psychopathology and mental health presentations, relationship and sexual diversity, and culturally sensitive engagement with diverse relational experiences.
- Ethics, Boundaries, and Therapist Reflexivity – professional ethics, boundaries, use of supervision, therapist self-awareness, diversity, and legal considerations in couple and relationship work.
Each unit supports learners in developing a coherent and responsive model for couple and relationship work, grounded in ethical practice, relational insight, and cultural sensitivity. Across the programme, approximately 65–80% of the curriculum is explicitly embedded in psychosexual and relationship theory, models, ethics, and applied relational understanding, consistent with COSRT expectations for Level 6 thematic training.
Please see the Unit Overview Table for a Breakdown of Guided Learning Hours, private study, and Total Qualification Time (TQT).
Total Taught (Guided Learning) Hours: 100
- 70 hours delivered face to face
- 30 hours delivered online via Zoom
Total Private Study Hours: 500 (directed and independent study, including reading, reflective journaling, skills practice, and assessment preparation)
Total Qualification Time (TQT): 600 hours
The 600 hours Total Qualification Time (TQT) is structured across five units, each representing approximately 120 hours of student learning. This includes taught sessions alongside directed independent study such as reading, reflective journaling, skills practice, and preparation for written assessments. The balance between guided learning and independent
study is consistent with expectations for a Level 6 diploma and supports the depth of learning required at this level.
Academic Appeal
Reflect On Academy has policies and procedures to address thoroughly, fairly, and expeditiously any issues that may arise in relation to assessment, including grounds for appeals against assessment decisions and the process to be followed, in accordance with regulatory requirements..
Quality Assurance
Reflect On Academy’s quality and standards are overseen through an enhancement-led approach to organisational review. The Academy follows the Quality Code for training providers, ensuring academic standards are upheld while continuously improving the student learning experience. Programme quality is monitored through structured feedback and review, and internal quality assurance procedures are informed by BACP guidelines. Students are expected to hold membership with a recognised professional body and to work in accordance with its ethical framework.
Equality and Diversity
Reflect On Academy is committed to equality of opportunity and the promotion of an inclusive culture. The Academy values diversity and prepares students to work within social, relational, and cross-cultural contexts, training counsellors to approach clients with integrity, respect, sensitivity, and ethical awareness.
Health and Safety
Reflect On Academy is committed to promoting positive attitudes to health, safety, and wellbeing and complies with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and related legislation.
Concerns and Complaints Procedure
Reflect On Academy operates a concerns and complaints procedure designed to support the resolution of issues relating to any aspect of the course in a clear, equitable, and timely manner, including matters relating to students..
Accreditation of Prior Learning
Accreditation of Prior Learning one year is necessary to complete all course requirements. Therefore, APL does not accept students after the course has begun. If you have any questions regarding these procedures, please contact the Admin Team via email: info@reflectonacademy.co.uk
What will I get at the end of the course?
Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy Level 6
Progression - Where next?
Successful completion of the course may support access to higher-level post-qualifying diplomas (e.g. Level 7 study) and contribute to ongoing professional development. Where applicable, it may also support progression within the BACP accredited training pathway (ref B1.3.1), aligned with the SCoPEd framework (Column C). Progression is subject to individual eligibility and the requirements of the relevant awarding or professional body.
Student Support Services
Student support at Reflect On Academy is embedded throughout the programme rather than delivered as a separate service. Support is provided through regular tutorials, academic guidance, clinical supervision, and ongoing communication with tutors and the course team. Students are encouraged to raise learning, wellbeing, or practice-related concerns at any stage of training. Reasonable adjustments, pastoral support, and clear procedures for feedback, concerns, and appeals are also integrated within the programme structure.
What will I get at the end of the course?
Successful completion of a Diploma in Applied Couple and Relationship Therapy Level 6
Concessions and Financial Support
ROA Foundation Scholarship
Each year, ROA offers a limited number of partial scholarships (up to four in total across all courses) through the ROA Foundation. Each scholarship covers up to 25% of tuition fees and is intended to support applicants from underrepresented backgrounds and/or those experiencing genuine financial hardship. Scholarships are competitive and awarded through a written application and interview process. For more information: https://reflectonacademy.co.uk/fees-and-requirements/
Funding/ Reduced Rate
As a privately funded institution, ROA provides limited concessions to applicants who meet specific eligibility criteria, such as qualifying employment status (evidence required). For more information contact the Admin Team via email: info@reflectonacademy.co.uk
How to apply?
Please request an application form by contacting Reflect On Academy administrator at
info@reflectonacademy.co.uk, telephone 0778 717 2968.
Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) - Level 6
Programme Overview:
The Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) is the required progression stage into Reflect On Academy’s Level 7 training. It supports practitioners in consolidating advanced readiness for postgraduate psychotherapy study by strengthening academic writing, research literacy, ethical judgement, cultural sensitivity, and supervised clinical integration.
This programme is open to applicants who have successfully completed the ROA Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (BACP-aligned/Column B. Level 6 ensures that all students enter Level 7 with a consistent foundation in postgraduate expectations and advanced clinical development.
Key course features
Qualification: Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award)
Level: 6
Mode: Part-time (classroom and zoom)
Duration: 6-9 months
GLH: 600 (in person and virtual learning environment via video (Zoom).
Total Qualification Time: 600 (Guided learning hours (taught sessions, group discussions, and tutor-led activities), and independent study time (reading, reflection, written work, skills practice, and assignment preparation).
Attendance: Minimum 80% required
Professional Accreditation: QLS Licence
Location & Timetable: Our Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) course takes place in Purley South East London.
- In person: Two Saturdays per month (9am–1pm and 9am–12pm), over 6 months totalling 36 hours, excluding a 4‑hour tutorial.
- Zoom: 6 evenings, 6–9pm totalling 18 hours
- Total: 60 hours
Start Date: TBA
Fees and Payment: £1, 300.00. (£500* non-refundable deposit paid in advance
Flexible Payment by Instalment:
- Payments by monthly standing order or direct debit only.
- Payments commence one month after interview.
- 10% discount for payment in full.
- Deposit of £500 required.
Additional Costs: Students are responsible for arranging and funding their own supervision and personal therapy/personal development, in line with their current BACP-registered practice
Course Admission - Entry Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following entry requirements:
Applicants must have completed the ROA Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (BACP‑accredited, three‑year programme mapped to SCoPEd Column B), or an equivalent three‑year Level 5 validated clinical counselling training that meets BACP requirements.
Applicants must also demonstrate:
- Active BACP registration (or eligibility for registration)
- Confirmation of completion of a minimum of 150 supervised practice hours as part of Level 5 training
- Appropriate placement or private practice arrangements (current or planned)
- Enhanced DBS
- Practitioner indemnity insurance
Supporting Evidence - submit:
- Qualification evidence: Diploma certificate and transcript
- Professional evidence: CV
- Brief personal development/CPD record
Photo ID requested at enrolment only.
In line with BACP requirements, applicants are also expected to demonstrate self-awareness and reflexivity, emotional maturity and stability, the ability to reflect on life experience, readiness to cope with the intellectual and academic demands of Level 6 study, and the capacity to work relationally and make use of feedback. The admissions process also explores awareness of difference, equality, and oppression, alongside willingness to reflect on bias, power and privilege, and the ability to recognise and maintain appropriate personal and professional support.
Application process: Admission is via written application and interview, where applicants are expected to demonstrate alignment with the BACP Ethical Framework, readiness for postgraduate-level study, and the personal and professional qualities required for advanced practice.
Theoretical Rationale and Philosophy
The Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) strengthens the academic, ethical, and professional foundations needed for postgraduate psychotherapy training. Grounded in humanistic and integrative philosophy, it supports experienced counsellors to deepen integration between clinical practice, psychological theory, research literacy, and reflective use of self. Positioned in line with SCoPEd Column B expectations, the award ensures practitioners are postgraduate‑ready—able to think critically, work ethically and inclusively, and apply theory, supervision, and research to real clinical work as they progress toward Level 7 study.
Programme Aims
The Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) aims to provide a structured and coherent progression route for experienced counsellors preparing for postgraduate psychotherapy training. The programme is designed to strengthen academic readiness, ethical judgement, cultural responsiveness, and research literacy, while supporting the integration of theory, supervision, and professional practice.
Course Structure
The Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award) is delivered part time over 6–9 months, combining 60 hours of live teaching alongside guided independent study. The programme is structured around three integrated units that strengthen academic readiness, deepen theoretical and research understanding, and support supervised clinical integration in preparation for Level 7 training.
Learners engage in tutor led seminars, experiential workshops, skills practice, and small group reflective discussion. Teaching is grounded in humanistic and integrative principles, with emphasis on ethical awareness, cultural sensitivity, and reflective use of self. The course is designed for qualified counsellors progressing from Level 5 who require a coherent, postgraduate ready foundation for advanced psychotherapy study.
Teaching and Assessment
Teaching is delivered through a blended model of theoretical seminars, experiential workshops, skills practice, and small‑group reflective discussion. Face‑to‑face days emphasise relational depth, experiential learning, and tutors’ ability to assess fitness‑to‑practice, while live online sessions remain tutor‑led, structured, and interactive.
Learning is grounded in supervised clinical work and supported by independent study and engagement with current psychotherapy literature. Assessment is fully coursework‑based, including written assignments, presentations, OSCEs, research tasks, a case study, and a Clinical Portfolio demonstrating developing competence and readiness for postgraduate psychotherapy training.
Course Units and Content
- Academic & Professional Readiness – Advanced academic skills for Level 6 study, including critical thinking, reflexive practice, ethical reasoning, and integrating theory with professional identity.
- Psychological Foundations & Research Literacy – Key psychological theories, comparative modality study, research evaluation, and applying evidence based and inclusive perspectives to clinical scenarios.
- Interim Professional Practice – Supervised clinical work integrating theory, ethics, reflective practice, and professional accountability, supported by a Clinical Portfolio evidencing developing competence.
Unit Table and Breakdown of Teaching Hours by Individual Unit:
Please see our Unit Overview Table for more information here
Assessment & Academic Integrity
Reflect On Academy has clear assessment and academic integrity procedures. Assessment decisions are documented and subject to internal quality assurance and, where required, external review. Any concerns about malpractice, plagiarism or maladministration are managed under the Reflect On Academy Malpractice, Plagiarism and Maladministration Policy.
Academic Appeal
Reflect On Academy has policies and procedures to address thoroughly, fairly, and expeditiously any problems that might arise in your assessment, such as grounds for appeals against assessment results and the process you must follow if you wish to appeal, which must comply with the regulations.
Quality Assurance
Reflect On Academy follows robust quality assurance processes informed by external review and sector standards. An independent body oversees our quality and standards through enhancement-led organisational reviews, and we follow a formal Quality Code for training providers. Assessment decisions are documented, internally moderated, and, where required, externally reviewed to ensure consistency, fairness, and academic integrity. Feedback from students, supervisors, and tutors is used to monitor and continually improve the programme.
Concerns and Complaints Procedure
Our concerns and complaints procedure helps you resolve issues concerning any aspect of your course in a clear, equitable, and timely manner – and similarly addresses matters relating to students.
Equality and Diversity
ROA is committed to equality of opportunity and promotes an inclusive culture, values diversity, and exposes students to social, relational, and cross-cultural contexts. It seeks to train counsellors who can approach clients with integrity, acceptance, respect, and sensitivity.
Reasonable Adjustments
Reflect On Academy is committed to ensuring that all students can fully participate in every aspect of the training. If you have a disability, health condition, neurodiverse profile, or any learning or access need, we invite you to discuss this with us at application, interview, or at any point during your training.
In line with our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Policy and our Reasonable Adjustments Policy, we offer individual adjustments to support access to teaching, learning, skills practice, online sessions and assessment. Adjustments may include changes to learning materials, additional time for assessments, adapted formats, or other practical arrangements.
Requests are handled sensitively and confidentially, and decisions are made on an individual basis to ensure that you are supported to engage in the course as fully as possible.
Your Voice Shapes Our Academy
We actively welcome student feedback and see it as central to the development of the course. You are encouraged to share your experiences through informal discussions, structured feedback activities, and end-of-module or end-of-year reviews. Student perspectives help us identify what is working well and where improvements could be made, and we aim to foster a collaborative learning community where your voice genuinely shapes the training.
Online and Phone Therapy (OPT)
The course ensures the implementation of robust and compliant data protection policies and procedures for online and phone therapy (OPT), in line with UK GDPR, confidentiality standards and safe digital practice. The OPT framework covers secure communication, safe storage and transfer of client information, boundaries around digital contact, and risk management when working remotely with clients.
Health and Safety
The College is committed to promoting positive attitudes to health, safety, and wellbeing, and will comply with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and other health and safety related legislation.
Accreditation of Prior Learning
Accreditation of Prior Learning requires a full six‑month period to complete all course requirements. For this reason, APL applications cannot be accepted once the course has begun. If you have any questions about these procedures, please contact the Admin Team via email: info@reflectonacademy.co.uk
Student Support Services
Student support at Reflect On Academy is embedded throughout the programme rather than delivered as a separate service. Support is provided through regular tutorials, academic guidance, clinical supervision, and ongoing communication with tutors and the course team. Students are encouraged to raise learning, wellbeing, or practice-related concerns at any stage of training. Reasonable adjustments, pastoral support, and clear procedures for feedback, concerns, and appeals are also integrated within the programme structure.
What will I get at the end of the course?
Successful completion of a Level 6 Advanced Certificate in Psychotherapy Practice and Studies (Bridging Award)
If you have any questions regarding APL procedures or eligibility, please contact the Admin Team via email: info@reflectonacademy.co.uk
How to apply?
Please request an application form by contacting Reflect On Academy administrator at
info@reflectonacademy.co.uk, telephone 0778 717 2968.