ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care is an internationally recognised qualification designed to equip healthcare professionals, caregivers, and support workers with the knowledge and skills to provide compassionate, holistic care for patients facing life‑limiting conditions. Rooted in the principles of Gestalt therapy, this programme emphasises the importance of presence, empathy, and authentic communication in supporting patients and their families during palliative care.

This course introduces learners to the foundations of Gestalt therapy, focusing on self‑awareness, the therapeutic relationship, and the integration of mind, body, and emotions. Participants will explore how these principles can be applied in palliative care settings to enhance patient dignity, reduce emotional distress, and improve the overall quality of life. The training also highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity, ethical practice, and interdisciplinary collaboration in delivering effective end‑of‑life care.

By completing the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care, learners will gain practical tools to support patients with compassion and professionalism. This qualification is particularly valuable for nurses, counsellors, social workers, hospice staff, and healthcare assistants who wish to strengthen their therapeutic skills in palliative care contexts.

As global healthcare systems increasingly recognise the importance of psychological and emotional support in end‑of‑life care, this award provides learners with internationally relevant competencies that enhance both personal growth and professional credibility. It is a vital step for those committed to delivering patient‑centred, holistic care in line with global healthcare standards.

Course Overview

Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care

To enrol in ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background:A minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent qualification is required. Candidates with additional studies in psychology, healthcare, social sciences, or counselling will be at an advantage, though this is not mandatory.
  • Professional Experience:While not always compulsory, many institutions prefer applicants with relevant experience in healthcare, counselling, or support services. Experience in roles involving patient care, emotional support, or palliative care settings is particularly valuable, as it provides practical context for the therapeutic approaches taught in this course.
  • English Proficiency:Since the course is delivered in English, learners must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. Strong English skills are essential for engaging with course materials, participating in discussions, and completing written assessments to a professional standard.
  • Additional Requirement:Learners should have basic literacy and numeracy skills, as the programme involves reading case studies, interpreting therapeutic models, and completing assessments. Some institutions may request a professional reference or a statement of purpose to confirm suitability for the course. Above all, applicants should demonstrate a genuine interest in palliative care, empathy, and a commitment to ethical therapeutic practice, as these qualities are central to Gestalt therapy in end‑of‑life care.

This qualification, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care, consists of 3 mandatory units.

  1. Introduction to Gestalt Therapy in Palliative Care
  2. Fundamentals of Palliative Care
  3. Gestalt Therapy Techniques
  4. Ethical and Legal Considerations
  5. Self-Awareness and Self-Care
  6. Integration of Gestalt Therapy with Other Therapeutic Approaches

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

Introduction to Gestalt Therapy in Palliative Care

  • Understand the core principles of Gestalt therapy and their relevance to palliative care.
  • Explain the role of presence, awareness, and authenticity in therapeutic relationships.
  • Recognise the importance of holistic care that integrates emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
  • Explore how Gestalt therapy supports patients and families during end‑of‑life care.
  • Apply foundational Gestalt concepts to enhance patient dignity and quality of life.

Fundamentals of Palliative Care

  • Understand the philosophy, goals, and principles of palliative care.
  • Recognise the physical, emotional, and social needs of patients with life‑limiting conditions.
  • Explore the role of interdisciplinary teams in delivering effective palliative care.
  • Identify strategies to manage pain, distress, and symptom relief in palliative settings.
  • Appreciate the importance of compassionate communication with patients and families.

Gestalt Therapy Techniques

  • Learn how to apply Gestalt techniques such as dialogue, role‑play, and guided awareness.
  • Develop skills in using the “here and now” approach to support patients.
  • Explore the use of body awareness and non‑verbal communication in therapy.
  • Apply Gestalt interventions to help patients process emotions and unresolved issues.
  • Adapt therapeutic techniques to suit the unique needs of palliative care contexts.

Ethical and Legal Considerations

  • Understand the ethical responsibilities of therapists in palliative care.
  • Recognise the importance of patient autonomy, consent, and confidentiality.
  • Explore legal frameworks that guide end‑of‑life care and therapeutic practice.
  • Apply ethical decision‑making models to complex palliative care scenarios.
  • Evaluate the balance between professional boundaries and compassionate support.

Self‑Awareness and Self‑Care

  • Develop self‑awareness to recognise personal strengths and limitations in practice.
  • Understand the impact of emotional stress when working in palliative care.
  • Apply self‑care strategies to maintain resilience and professional wellbeing.
  • Recognise the importance of reflective practice in personal and professional growth.
  • Build coping mechanisms to prevent burnout and compassion fatigue.

Integration of Gestalt Therapy with Other Therapeutic Approaches

  • Understand how Gestalt therapy complements other therapeutic models in palliative care.
  • Explore the integration of Gestalt with counselling, cognitive, and holistic approaches.
  • Recognise the value of interdisciplinary collaboration in patient support.
  • Apply combined therapeutic strategies to address complex patient needs.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of integrated approaches in improving patient outcomes.

Completing the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care equips learners with therapeutic, ethical, and holistic care skills that are highly valued in healthcare and counselling. This qualification opens doors to advanced study, professional development, and diverse career opportunities in palliative and supportive care.

Advanced Education and Training

  • Progress to higher‑level qualifications in counselling, psychotherapy, or palliative care.
  • Pursue specialised training in grief counselling, bereavement support, or end‑of‑life care.
  • Enrol in diploma or degree programmes in psychology, nursing, or social work.
  • Build a foundation for postgraduate studies in Gestalt therapy or integrative psychotherapy.
  • Strengthen academic pathways toward advanced therapeutic practice.

Professional Career Opportunities

  • Work in hospices, hospitals, and community health centres providing palliative support.
  • Take on roles as a bereavement counsellor, palliative care support worker, or therapeutic practitioner.
  • Support patients and families in end‑of‑life care through holistic and compassionate approaches.
  • Enhance existing roles in nursing, social care, or mental health with advanced therapeutic skills.
  • Contribute to multidisciplinary teams delivering patient‑centred care.

Continuous Professional Development (CPD)

  • Attend workshops, seminars, and international conferences on Gestalt therapy and palliative care.
  • Join professional associations in counselling, psychotherapy, or healthcare.
  • Stay updated with evolving global standards in palliative and therapeutic practice.
  • Engage in refresher training to maintain competence and ethical standards.
  • Build a CPD portfolio to track learning, achievements, and career growth.

Global Relevance

  • Apply skills in international healthcare and counselling settings.
  • Contribute to humanitarian and global health projects focused on end‑of‑life care.
  • Work with NGOs and organisations supporting vulnerable populations worldwide.
  • Gain transferable competencies recognised across countries and healthcare systems.

FAQs

The ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care is ideal for individuals working in healthcare, counselling, social work, or hospice care who want to strengthen their therapeutic skills in end‑of‑life support. It is particularly suitable for nurses, healthcare assistants, counsellors, social workers, and palliative care staff. This course is also valuable for professionals seeking to expand their knowledge of holistic and patient‑centred approaches in global healthcare settings.

By completing this qualification, learners gain both personal and professional benefits, including:

  • Developing a strong understanding of Gestalt therapy principles and their application in palliative care.
  • Building skills in compassionate communication and emotional support for patients and families.
  • Enhancing professional credibility with an internationally recognised qualification.
  • Learning to integrate holistic, ethical, and culturally sensitive approaches into patient care.
  • Strengthening resilience and self‑awareness to manage the emotional demands of palliative care.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care is a 3-day 9-hour training program. This Training program has mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centres.

ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care is offered in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But the final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, the ICTQual Level 3 Award in Gestalt Therapy for Palliative Care includes quizzes consisting of 100 multiple-choice questions (MCQs). These assessments evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and ability to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%.