ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
The ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health is a comprehensive two-year programme with a 240-credit structure, designed to equip learners with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience needed to thrive in mental health and clinical psychology roles. The course combines theoretical learning with applied practice, providing learners with a solid foundation in understanding human behaviour, mental health disorders, and therapeutic interventions.
This programme is suitable for fresh learners who are passionate about psychology and mental wellbeing, as well as healthcare and social care professionals seeking to enhance their expertise. Learners gain practical skills in psychological assessment, therapy techniques, counselling, crisis intervention, and patient support. The course also emphasises evidence-based practice, ethical decision-making, and professional communication, preparing learners for diverse career paths in mental health services.
The professional value of this diploma lies in its relevance to modern clinical psychology and mental health practice. Learners develop competencies in cognitive-behavioural strategies, trauma-informed care, counselling interventions, and research methodology. These skills are essential for supporting individuals, families, and communities facing psychological challenges, and for contributing to effective healthcare outcomes.
Graduates of this programme are equipped to pursue careers as mental health practitioners, clinical support officers, counselling coordinators, or therapy assistants in hospitals, mental health clinics, community health centres, and rehabilitation programmes. Key benefits of completing this diploma include practical clinical exposure, enhanced understanding of mental health conditions, and the ability to implement structured intervention plans.
By combining academic knowledge with hands-on practice, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health prepares learners to make a meaningful impact in the mental health sector while opening opportunities for professional growth and advanced specialisation in the field.
Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health learner must meet the following entry requirements:
This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health 240 Credits – Two Years, consists of 24 mandatory units.
Year 1: Foundation in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
- Introduction to Clinical Psychology
- Human Behaviour and Cognitive Processes
- Fundamentals of Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Abnormal Psychology and Common Disorders
- Psychological Assessment Techniques
- Counselling Principles and Techniques
- Research Methods in Psychology
- Ethics, Professionalism, and Legal Frameworks
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Mental Health
- Health Promotion and Patient Education
- Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan
- Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice in Mental Health
Year 2: Advanced Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
- Advanced Psychological Assessment and Diagnosis
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Principles
- Trauma-Informed Care and Crisis Intervention
- Counselling for Special Populations
- Clinical Psychopathology and Advanced Disorders
- Psychopharmacology and Treatment Planning
- Research and Data Analysis in Mental Health
- Leadership and Management in Clinical Settings
- Community and Public Mental Health
- Professional Development and Reflective Practice
- Practical Placement in Clinical Psychology
- Capstone Project in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health
Learning Outcomes for the Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health 240 Credits – Two Years:
Year 1: Foundation in Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
Introduction to Clinical Psychology
- Understand the core principles and scope of clinical psychology.
- Identify the roles and responsibilities of a clinical psychologist.
- Recognise the different branches and specialisations within psychology.
- Apply basic psychological concepts to practical case scenarios.
Human Behaviour and Cognitive Processes
- Explain key theories of human behaviour and cognition.
- Analyse the impact of thought, emotion, and behaviour on mental health.
- Apply understanding of cognition to patient assessment and care.
- Identify factors influencing behaviour across different populations.
Fundamentals of Mental Health and Wellbeing
- Understand the concepts of mental health and psychological wellbeing.
- Identify factors that affect mental health across the lifespan.
- Apply interventions to promote mental wellness.
- Evaluate strategies to prevent mental health challenges.
Abnormal Psychology and Common Disorders
- Recognise signs and symptoms of common psychological disorders.
- Analyse the causes and impacts of mental health conditions.
- Apply theoretical frameworks to understand abnormal behaviour.
- Assess case studies to identify appropriate interventions.
Psychological Assessment Techniques
- Learn to conduct basic psychological assessments and evaluations.
- Apply standardised tools for measuring cognitive, emotional, and behavioural functioning.
- Interpret assessment results to inform care planning.
- Maintain ethical and professional standards in assessment processes.
Counselling Principles and Techniques
- Understand core counselling theories and approaches.
- Apply active listening and empathetic communication skills.
- Develop basic intervention strategies for psychological support.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of counselling techniques in practice.
Research Methods in Psychology
- Understand qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Design simple research studies relevant to mental health.
- Analyse and interpret psychological data effectively.
- Apply research findings to support evidence-based practice.
Ethics, Professionalism, and Legal Frameworks
- Understand ethical principles in clinical psychology practice.
- Apply professional standards when working with clients.
- Recognise legal obligations and responsibilities in mental health care.
- Analyse ethical dilemmas and implement appropriate solutions.
Communication and Interpersonal Skills in Mental Health
- Demonstrate effective verbal and non-verbal communication with clients.
- Build rapport and trust with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support mental health outcomes.
- Apply conflict resolution and negotiation skills in clinical settings.
Health Promotion and Patient Education
- Understand the role of education in promoting mental health.
- Design strategies to educate clients and communities.
- Apply techniques to support behavioural change and resilience.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of health promotion initiatives.
Developmental Psychology Across the Lifespan
- Understand psychological development from childhood to older adulthood.
- Identify age-related mental health challenges and interventions.
- Apply developmental knowledge in assessment and treatment planning.
- Analyse the impact of social, cultural, and environmental factors on development.
Introduction to Evidence-Based Practice in Mental Health
- Understand the principles of evidence-based practice in psychology.
- Critically appraise research and clinical literature.
- Apply evidence to clinical decision-making and interventions.
- Evaluate outcomes to improve therapeutic effectiveness.
Year 2: Advanced Clinical Psychology and Mental Health
Advanced Psychological Assessment and Diagnosis
- Conduct comprehensive psychological assessments across populations.
- Interpret complex diagnostic tools and psychological tests.
- Develop detailed care plans based on assessment results.
- Ensure adherence to ethical and professional standards in diagnosis.
Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) Principles
- Understand the theoretical foundations of CBT.
- Apply CBT techniques to manage psychological disorders.
- Monitor client progress and adjust therapy strategies.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of CBT interventions.
Trauma-Informed Care and Crisis Intervention
- Recognise signs of trauma and acute psychological crises.
- Apply trauma-informed approaches in clinical practice.
- Develop intervention plans to support crisis management.
- Evaluate outcomes and modify interventions as needed.
Counselling for Special Populations
- Understand psychological needs of children, adolescents, and older adults.
- Adapt counselling techniques for diverse populations.
- Address culturally sensitive and specific mental health concerns.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of interventions in specialised groups.
Clinical Psychopathology and Advanced Disorders
- Analyse complex mental health disorders and comorbidities.
- Apply advanced clinical knowledge to assessment and care planning.
- Develop treatment strategies for severe or chronic conditions.
- Evaluate patient outcomes and modify interventions appropriately.
Psychopharmacology and Treatment Planning
- Understand common psychotropic medications and their effects.
- Integrate pharmacological knowledge with psychological interventions.
- Monitor treatment response and manage potential side effects.
- Develop holistic care plans incorporating therapy and medication.
Research and Data Analysis in Mental Health
- Design and conduct advanced research studies in psychology.
- Analyse and interpret complex clinical data.
- Apply research findings to improve clinical practice.
- Communicate research outcomes effectively in professional settings.
Leadership and Management in Clinical Settings
- Develop leadership skills for clinical and mental health environments.
- Manage teams and coordinate patient care efficiently.
- Implement policies and procedures to enhance service delivery.
- Monitor and improve quality standards in clinical practice.
Community and Public Mental Health
- Understand mental health needs in community and public settings.
- Design community programmes to promote psychological wellbeing.
- Collaborate with organisations to implement public health interventions.
- Evaluate the impact of mental health initiatives on populations.
Professional Development and Reflective Practice
- Reflect on personal and professional practice for continuous improvement.
- Identify learning needs and career development goals.
- Apply ethical and professional standards in daily practice.
- Engage in lifelong learning to maintain competence and knowledge.
Practical Placement in Clinical Psychology
- Apply theoretical knowledge in real-world clinical environments.
- Conduct patient assessments, interventions, and therapy sessions under supervision.
- Demonstrate professional behaviour and ethical practice in placement.
- Evaluate practical experience and integrate learning into professional development.
Capstone Project in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health
- Conduct an independent research or applied project in clinical psychology.
- Apply critical thinking and evidence-based methodologies.
- Analyse findings and propose recommendations for practice.
- Present a structured report demonstrating practical, analytical, and research skills.
Completion of the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health provides learners with the knowledge, practical experience, and professional skills required to advance in the mental health and clinical psychology sector. Graduates are well-prepared to take on specialist roles, leadership positions, or applied practice in healthcare, counselling, and community services. The programme equips learners to contribute effectively to patient care, research, and community mental health initiatives.
Clinical Career Opportunities
- Work as a mental health practitioner, clinical support officer, or counselling coordinator.
- Provide therapeutic support and interventions in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres, and community health services.
- Apply psychological assessment and treatment planning skills to diverse populations.
- Develop expertise in managing mental health conditions and improving patient outcomes.
Specialised Professional Training
- Undertake advanced training in trauma-informed care, cognitive-behavioural therapy, and counselling techniques.
- Gain recognition in specialised areas such as child and adolescent psychology or geriatric mental health.
- Enhance clinical competencies through short courses and professional certifications.
- Strengthen practical skills for evidence-based interventions and therapeutic programmes.
Leadership and Management Roles
- Take on supervisory or coordinator roles in clinical and community mental health settings.
- Lead multidisciplinary teams to ensure effective patient care delivery.
- Develop and implement policies, procedures, and quality assurance measures.
- Contribute to service development, programme management, and organisational improvement.
Research and Community Engagement
- Participate in mental health research and applied clinical projects.
- Analyse and interpret outcomes to improve therapy techniques and interventions.
- Collaborate with community health organisations to implement mental health initiatives.
- Promote public awareness, resilience, and wellbeing through education and outreach programmes.
Delivering the ICTQual AB Level 5 International Diploma in Clinical Psychology & Mental Health requires centres to maintain high standards in teaching, clinical practice, learner support, and quality assurance. The following requirements ensure learners receive a professional, comprehensive, and internationally relevant learning experience.
Qualified Academic and Clinical Staff
- Centres must employ tutors with recognised qualifications in clinical psychology, mental health, counselling, or related fields.
- Teaching staff should have relevant professional experience in psychological assessment, therapy, or mental health support.
- Assessors and internal verifiers must meet ICTQual AB quality standards and receive regular training.
- Continuous professional development should be provided to ensure staff remain updated with best practices.
Learning Facilities and Resources
- Centres should provide well-equipped classrooms and practical training spaces for psychology and counselling exercises.
- Learners must have access to psychological assessment tools, therapy resources, and digital learning platforms.
- Centres should offer access to research journals, clinical case studies, and evidence-based materials.
- Facilities should support workshops, group discussions, and simulation exercises to enhance learning.
Practical and Clinical Placement Support
- Centres must establish partnerships with hospitals, mental health clinics, community services, or counselling centres.
- Learners should have supervised hands-on experience in assessment, therapy, and intervention techniques.
- Placement guidance should include mentorship, feedback, and performance evaluation.
- Centres must ensure exposure to diverse patient populations and clinical scenarios.
Assessment and Quality Assurance
- Assessments should follow ICTQual AB guidelines to ensure fairness, transparency, and reliability.
- Internal moderation and verification processes must be implemented to maintain assessment standards.
- Learners should receive timely and constructive feedback to support development.
- Centres must conduct regular audits and quality reviews to maintain high academic and practical standards.
Learner Support Services
- Centres should provide academic mentoring, counselling, and career guidance for all learners.
- Accessibility measures should be in place to support diverse learning needs.
- Digital literacy support should be available for online or blended components.
- Centres must offer guidance for professional development, reflective practice, and skill enhancement.