CBT Training in Ireland Online: Pathways for Practitioners
Written by the ICPS College Academic Team · Reviewed by ICPS College faculty · Last reviewed: September 2026
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is one of the most widely researched psychological therapies and is recommended in international guidelines for a range of difficulties, including anxiety and depression. For counsellors, psychotherapists and allied professionals, CBT training offers a structured, collaborative set of tools that can strengthen everyday practice.
The CBT model
CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, emotions, physical sensations and behaviours are interconnected. Unhelpful patterns in one area can maintain distress in the others. Developed from the work of Aaron Beck and Albert Ellis, and later expanded through behavioural and third-wave approaches, CBT helps clients notice these patterns and test more balanced alternatives.
Formulation: a shared map of how a client's difficulties developed and what keeps them going.
Cognitive work: identifying automatic thoughts and core beliefs, and examining the evidence for them.
Behavioural work: activity scheduling, graded exposure and behavioural experiments.
Structure: agenda setting, goals, homework and regular review.
Collaboration: the therapist and client work together as a team.
What online CBT training covers
Good CBT courses combine theory with practice. Learners should expect to study the cognitive model, assessment and formulation, protocols for common presentations such as anxiety and low mood, and the skills of Socratic questioning and guided discovery. Live-online teaching allows learners across Ireland to practise these skills in real time, discuss case material and receive feedback.
Becoming a CBT therapist: what accreditation involves
It is important to be clear about professional pathways. Accreditation as a CBT psychotherapist through a recognised accrediting body, such as the BABCP in the UK or the relevant professional body in Ireland, usually requires a core professional training, a postgraduate-level CBT qualification, supervised clinical hours and ongoing CPD. A CPD diploma can build knowledge and skills and support progression, but it does not in itself confer accredited CBT therapist status.
Using CBT within your existing role
Many practitioners integrate CBT-informed skills into counselling, social care, education, addiction work and healthcare, always within the scope of their training and professional role. Supervision helps ensure that techniques are used appropriately and that clients with complex or high-risk presentations are referred on.
Further training
The Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a live-online programme carrying 60 CPD credits. It covers the cognitive model, assessment and formulation, core cognitive and behavioural interventions and ethical practice for counsellors, psychotherapists and allied professionals.
Frequently asked questions
Can I train in CBT online in Ireland?
Yes. ICPS College delivers its Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) live online, with lecturer-led classes that learners can join from anywhere in Ireland or abroad. The programme carries 60 CPD credits.
Does a CBT diploma make me an accredited CBT therapist?
No. A CPD diploma builds CBT knowledge and skills, but accreditation as a CBT psychotherapist is granted by a recognised accrediting body and usually requires a core professional training, postgraduate-level CBT study and supervised clinical hours.
Who is CBT training suitable for?
Counsellors, psychotherapists and allied health, social care and education professionals who want to use structured CBT skills within the scope of their existing role.
Related ICPS College courses
References
Beck, J.S. (2021) Cognitive Behavior Therapy: Basics and Beyond. 3rd edn. New York: Guilford Press.
Important information
This article is educational content for practitioners and learners. It is not a substitute for professional advice, counselling or therapy.
If you are struggling or in distress in Ireland, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123 or text HELLO to 50808 at any time. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
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