ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) is a professional qualification designed for learners who wish to develop a strong foundation in psychiatry and mental health care. This programme equips students with essential knowledge of psychiatric disorders, diagnostic methods, psychological assessment, and therapeutic approaches, enabling them to understand and support individuals experiencing a wide range of mental health conditions.

With mental health becoming a global priority, there is an increasing need for trained professionals in psychiatric care, psychology, counselling, and behavioural sciences. This diploma covers key aspects of psychiatry, including clinical practice, therapeutic interventions, neuropsychiatry, and ethical responsibilities in mental health services. Learners gain valuable skills to work in environments such as psychiatric nursing, community health, and therapy-based roles, while also building confidence in patient support and emotional wellbeing management.

The Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry is suitable for those beginning their careers in healthcare or for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in mental health training. It provides an ideal stepping stone to advanced studies in psychology, psychotherapy, psychiatry, or psychiatric nursing, creating clear academic and career progression opportunities.

By completing this diploma, learners will be prepared to make a meaningful impact in mental health services, contribute to better community wellbeing, and support the growing demand for skilled professionals in psychiatry worldwide.

Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: Learner should ideally hold a Level 2 qualification or equivalent in a related field such as healthcare, psychology, counselling, or social sciences.
  • Work Experience: Learner with prior experience in healthcare, mental health support, or community services will have an added advantage, though it is mandatory.
  • English Proficiency: Learner whose first language is not English must demonstrate minimum English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 5.0 or equivalent).
  • Communication Ability: Learner must be able to communicate effectively, show empathy, and maintain professional and ethical standards.
  • Core Skills: Learner must demonstrate basic literacy, numeracy, and IT skills to successfully complete assignments and assessments.

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Foundations of Psychiatry
  2. Understanding Mental Health and Disorders
  3. Psychological Theories and Approaches
  4. Psychiatric Assessment and Diagnosis
  5. Treatment Methods in Psychiatry
  6. Professional Practice and Patient Care

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

1. Foundations of Psychiatry

  • Understand the historical development and scope of psychiatry as a medical discipline.
  • Identify the role of psychiatry within healthcare systems and its relationship with psychology, neurology, and social sciences.
  • Recognise the ethical principles and legal frameworks guiding psychiatric practice.
  • Develop awareness of cultural, social, and environmental influences on mental health.

2. Understanding Mental Health and Disorders

  • Define key concepts of mental health, well-being, and mental illness.
  • Classify common psychiatric disorders using international diagnostic systems (e.g., ICD, DSM).
  • Recognise the biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to mental disorders.
  • Analyse the stigma associated with mental illness and strategies to reduce discrimination.

3. Psychological Theories and Approaches

  • Explore major psychological theories relevant to psychiatry, including behavioural, cognitive, and psychodynamic models.
  • Evaluate the contribution of developmental psychology to understanding mental disorders.
  • Apply psychological principles to explain abnormal behaviour and mental health conditions.
  • Compare different therapeutic approaches and their role in psychiatric treatment.

4. Psychiatric Assessment and Diagnosis

  • Understand the principles and methods of psychiatric assessment, including history-taking and mental state examination.
  • Learn how to identify symptoms, signs, and patterns in psychiatric presentations.
  • Apply structured assessment tools and rating scales used in psychiatry.
  • Recognise the challenges of differential diagnosis and comorbidity in mental health.

5. Treatment Methods in Psychiatry

  • Identify the main treatment modalities, including pharmacological, psychological, and social interventions.
  • Understand the principles of psychopharmacology and commonly prescribed psychiatric medications.
  • Analyse the role of psychotherapy, counselling, and behavioural therapies in patient care.
  • Evaluate the importance of multi-disciplinary teams in developing and delivering treatment plans.

6. Professional Practice and Patient Care

  • Understand the professional responsibilities of learners in psychiatric settings.
  • Recognise patient rights, confidentiality, and informed consent in psychiatric care.
  • Develop skills in communication, empathy, and therapeutic relationships with patients.
  • Explore strategies for relapse prevention, rehabilitation, and long-term support.

Completing the ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) equips learners with a solid foundation in mental health studies and prepares them for both higher academic pathways and professional opportunities. This qualification not only builds essential knowledge of psychiatric concepts but also enhances practical skills, allowing learners to progress confidently towards advanced studies and careers in mental health, psychology, and healthcare sectors.

  • Academic Progression
    • Learners can progress to Level 4 Diplomas in related fields such as:
      • Level 4 Diploma in Psychology
      • Level 4 Diploma in Mental Health and Wellbeing
      • Level 4 Diploma in Health and Social Care Management
    • Provides a foundation for further study in psychiatry, psychology, nursing, or social work.
  • Professional Development
    • Learners gain skills suitable for entry-level roles in mental health support, psychiatric care assistance, and healthcare services.
    • Enhances employability in hospitals, community mental health centres, rehabilitation units, and social care organisations.
    • Serves as professional development for those already working in healthcare, counselling, or social services.
  • Specialised Training Opportunities
    • Learners can pursue CPD courses or certifications in:
      • Counselling skills
      • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) basics
      • Addiction and rehabilitation support
      • Crisis intervention and suicide prevention
  • Long-Term Career Pathways
    • With further study, learners may pursue professional careers as:
      • Psychiatric nursing assistants
      • Mental health practitioners
      • Counsellors or therapists (with higher qualifications)
      • Support workers in NGOs or community programmes
    • Forms a stepping stone towards advanced qualifications leading to roles in clinical psychology, psychiatry, and healthcare leadership.

FAQs

This course is open to learners who are interested in developing a foundation in psychiatry and mental health. It is particularly suitable for:

  • Learners aspiring to build a career in psychiatry, psychology, or counselling.
  • Healthcare support workers seeking to enhance their knowledge of mental health care.
  • Social workers, caregivers, and educators looking to better understand psychiatric conditions.

Learners should typically:

  • Be 18 years or older.
  • Have a Level 2 qualification or equivalent in a relevant subject, or demonstrate adequate work experience in healthcare or social care.
  • Possess basic literacy and numeracy skills to complete assignments and assessments.
  • Demonstrate a strong interest in mental health and psychiatry.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) is 30 Credits training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Diploma in Psychiatry (Dip P) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%