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Specialist Course in Integrative Couple Therapy

Specialist Course in Integrative Couple Therapy

The renowned Specialist Course in Integrative Couple Therapy (SCICT) is now in its 33rd year. It is open to counsellors and psychologists wanting to develop rigorous knowledge and specialist skills in working with couples.

Delivered by Relationships Australia Victoria (RAV), it is also an accredited component of the Swinburne University Master of Social Science (Couple Counselling) at the second year level.

The course uses an integrative therapeutic approach, which is strongly grounded in evidence-based models and contemporary practice.

It equips participants to respond flexibly to couples’ particular needs, world views and situations.

'I can say, without hesitation, that RAV's course was one of the most rewarding and stimulating aspects of my post-graduate education.'

Recognising the limitations inherent in a single theoretical model, the course provides participants with training in a range of theories and practices.

Theories and modalities covered include:

  • attachment theory
  • psycho-dynamic, systemic and integrated behavioural theories
  • emotionally-focused therapy
  • neurobiological-informed practice.

The course incorporates research findings by Gottman and considers emerging ideas and practice trends.

'The combination of experiential learning as well as theory was very valuable. Highly recommend the course for professionals in the field. I loved it.' - Catherine Stevenson, Psychiatric Clinical Nurse Therapist, Mental Health

A ‘Therapeutic Self’ module enhances participants’ understanding of what shapes them as therapists, enabling them to remain reflective in what is often an emotionally charged field. At the conclusion of the course, participants will have developed specialist knowledge and emerging skills to assist couples experiencing a range of difficult issues.

The stand-alone course is delivered one day a week for 5 months, with the option of completing an additional supervised internship at a Relationships Australia Victoria centre.

'I found the course to be especially helpful to me in understanding and developing the links between my personal experience, the theoretical perspectives, and my work with couples.' - Max Broadway, Industrial Chaplain and Accredited Social Worker.

Dates/times

This course will next run in early 2024.

Pricing
$5500 including GST (See 'Fees' for more information)
Location
Relationships Australia Victoria - Kew Centre
Wurundjeri Country
46 Princess Street
Kew, VIC 3101
Download the 2023 course flyer pdf, 303KB

More information

Participants need to have appropriate tertiary qualifications in social services and a minimum of one year’s face-to-face counselling experience.

Applicants are required to attend an interview prior to acceptance into the course.

$5500 including GST.

Instalment options are available for an additional $150 administration fee.

A $1500 deposit is required to secure enrolment.

Fee help is available for students of the Master of Counselling at Swinburne University.

Couple counselling is a highly specialised field and we strongly encourage students who wish to further strengthen their practical skills and experience to consider additional professional development.

Our specialised, post-course options include:
• a 12-month clinical internship
• clinical supervision and workplace experience.

  • 'I found the Specialist Course in Couple Therapy to be wonderfully challenging, informative, fun and educational, guided along the way by highly skilled and inclusive practitioners.'

  • 'Its organisation and structure was exceptional. The weekly reading material was extensive and provided the opportunity for thorough exploration of theory and practice, helping to extend both my theoretical knowledge, as well as assisting in utilising this in my therapeutic work with couples. The course provided excellent opportunities for reflection and clarification of the theories and techniques that were covered. The presenters themselves were thoughtful, energetic and supportive.'

  • 'The Specialist Course in Couple Therapy was thoroughly enjoyable, challenging and inspiring. I use the skills gained from my attendance daily in my counselling practice.' - Jenny Cuthbertson, Psychologist, Private Practice

Contact us

SCICT Coordinator
Phone: (03) 9261 8702
Email: [email protected] 

Express your interest for 2024

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