Counselling Psychology

The University of Victoria Counselling Psychology program reflects current professional and research knowledge concerning the counselling and human development needs of a pluralistic society. The program objectives are focused on preparing students for the professional practice of social justice informed counselling, not social activism. These objectives are directly related to the program’s activities and reflect on-going input from faculty, current and former students, as well as agency personnel.

Admission Requirements

• Four-year baccalaureate degree.
• Minimum required entrance GPA is a B+ average.
• Counselling-related experience in a position where the main role was to help individuals or groups with personally meaningful goals or needs.

What You’ll Learn

• Enhance their understanding of human development and the processes of change. This is achieved by drawing upon theories of human development and learning, broadening their awareness of developmental issues and challenges, and integrating this knowledge into the counselling psychology setting.
• Acquire and integrate their knowledge of the history and philosophy of counselling psychology, the expectations associated with the professional counsellor’s role, and the standards and certification required by professional counselling organizations.
• Develop the relevant competencies consistent with CCPA Standards of Practice for counsellors.
• Develop appropriate assessment strategies and intervention approaches based on specific client needs.
• Expand their awareness of cultural, racial, and social diversity as counselling practitioners in professional and research contexts.
• Develop legally and ethically sound professional counselling competencies in both clinical and research settings.
• Become competent in conducting ethical and relevant counselling psychology research.
• Establish community and professional connections that will improve their employability and provide them with a network of professional contacts in counselling-related disciplines.