Philosophy for Psychotherapists

Course Title: Philosophy for Psychotherapists
Type of Course: Adult Education
Credit: Not credit bearing

Week and Session Title

1. Introduction to Philosophy: Understanding the relevance of philosophical concepts in psychotherapy

2. Ethics in Psychotherapy: Exploring moral theories and their application to therapeutic practice

3. The Mind-Body Problem: Examining dualism, physicalism, and their implications for psychotherapy

4. Personal Identity: Investigating theories of self and their influence on therapeutic approaches

5. Free Will and Determinism: Discussing the impact of these concepts on notions of responsibility and change in therapy

6. Epistemology: Understanding the nature of knowledge and belief, and their roles in the therapeutic process

7. Phenomenology: Exploring subjective experience and its significance in understanding clients

8. Existentialism: Examining themes of meaning, anxiety, and authenticity in psychotherapy

9. Language and Meaning: Investigating the philosophy of language and its relevance to communication in therapy

10. Philosophy of Science: Understanding scientific methods and their application to psychological practices

Course Overview

This course delves into key philosophical concepts and their relevance to psychotherapy. Over ten sessions, the tutor will guide participants through various philosophical theories and discussions, encouraging critical reflection on their application to therapeutic practice. Topics include ethics, the mind-body problem, personal identity, free will, epistemology, phenomenology, existentialism, language, and the philosophy of science.

Participants will engage in discussions and activities designed to bridge the gap between philosophical theory and psychotherapeutic practice, fostering a deeper understanding of the conceptual foundations that underpin therapeutic work.

Required Previous Experience (if any)
None required.

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)
None required.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course, you will be better prepared to:

• Demonstrate an understanding of key philosophical concepts and their relevance to psychotherapy

• Critically evaluate the philosophical underpinnings of various therapeutic approaches

• Reflect on and articulate your own philosophical assumptions and how they influence your practice

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, group activities, and independent study supported by individual guidance from the tutor. Classes are conducted face-to-face in a classroom setting and utilize diverse teaching methods, including presentations, multimedia resources, class discussions, and interactive activities. These methods are selected to engage students, accommodate varied learning styles, and support effective understanding of the subject matter. The approach is also designed to recognize and be responsive to the diverse experiences, backgrounds, identities, and cultural perspectives represented within the student cohort, fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.

Additional Information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to the group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.