Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): CPD Training in Ireland

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is one of the most extensively researched psychological approaches in contemporary mental health practice. Grounded in the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, CBT offers practitioners a structured, evidence-informed framework for understanding and working with a wide range of psychological difficulties. ICPS College's Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy provides counsellors and psychotherapists with a comprehensive foundation in CBT theory, techniques, and clinical application.

This course is not a motorcycle CBT — it is a structured psychological training designed specifically for counsellors and mental health practitioners who wish to develop competence in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Delivered live online over ten weeks, the course equips practitioners with the clinical knowledge and skills needed to apply CBT approaches effectively in practice.

What the Professional Diploma in CBT Covers

Ten modules explore:

• Theoretical foundations of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy: Beck, Ellis, and the cognitive model

• The relationship between cognitions, emotions, behaviours, and physiology

• Cognitive distortions and unhelpful thinking patterns

• Behavioural techniques: behavioural activation, exposure, and response prevention

• Socratic questioning and guided discovery in CBT practice

• Case formulation using the CBT framework

• CBT for anxiety disorders: generalised anxiety, social anxiety, panic, and health anxiety

• CBT for depression: identifying and challenging negative automatic thoughts

• Third-wave CBT approaches: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness-Based CBT

• Ethical considerations and limitations of CBT in practice

Who Is This Course For?

• Counsellors and psychotherapists seeking specialist CPD in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

• Mental health practitioners who wish to extend their therapeutic repertoire with evidence-based techniques

• Practitioners working in medical, occupational, or educational settings

• Trainee counsellors building a foundation in CBT approaches

Delivery Format and Duration

Delivered live online via Zoom over ten weeks, with one session per week. All teaching is in real time by experienced CBT practitioners, supported by reading and reflective tasks between sessions. On successful completion, participants receive 60 CPD credits.

Accreditation and CPD Credits

Accredited by the Professional Development Consortium and the CPD Standards Office, this course provides a Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and 60 CPD credits. Credits are suitable for submission to IACP, IAHIP, BACP, and other recognised professional bodies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is prior knowledge of CBT required?

No prior CBT training is required. The course is designed to be accessible to counsellors and psychotherapists who are new to CBT, as well as those with some familiarity who wish to formalise their knowledge.

How does CBT differ from person-centred therapy?

CBT is a structured, goal-directed approach focused on the relationship between thoughts, emotions, and behaviours, often involving specific techniques and homework tasks. Person-centred therapy emphasises the therapeutic relationship, empathy, and the client's innate capacity for growth. Many integrative practitioners draw on both frameworks depending on the client's needs and preferences.

Will this diploma allow me to practise CBT?

This diploma provides a strong theoretical and practical foundation in CBT approaches suitable for counsellors and psychotherapists who hold a relevant qualification. It is not a standalone clinical training. Practitioners are advised to seek appropriate supervision when applying CBT techniques in practice.

Enrol in the Professional Diploma in CBT

View full course details on the Professional Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy course page. You may also be interested in the Professional Diploma in Psychology, Professional Diploma in Mindfulness, and Professional Diploma in Addiction Studies. For enquiries, visit the ICPS College contact page.