If you are applying for a stand-alone Masters level module please note you must meet either the general University entry criteria or the specific module pre-requisite for this level of study.
Module manager: Stuart Gore
Email: s.gore@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
MA in counselling and/or psychotherapy with professional body registration Successful completion of HECS5338M
This module is not approved as an Elective
This module offers an opportunity to broaden your understanding of theory and to synthesise theoretical thinking with your practice and self-awareness. In this module you will deepen your understanding of some of the core counselling and psychotherapy theories taught in the MA Psychotherapy and Counselling and advance these within your developing approach to therapeutic practice, applying personal insights drawing from intersubjectivity theory and relational psychoanalysis. You will also consider your own underlying values and experiences in terms of how these influence your theoretical and practice allegiances as well as areas for future growth and development. You will be introduced to working with complex and enduring mental health issues and the organisational and legislative context of working within mental health services.
The module aims to facilitate and develop the integration of the student's theoretical understanding with clinical practice as a psychotherapist and reflexive awareness of intersubjective processes.
1. Show an in-depth understanding of intersubjective theories.
2. Critically analyse contemporary debates within relational psychotherapy theory.
3. Integrate the critical analysis of contemporary debates in psychotherapy theory with reflective practice.
Students will be required to demonstrate a level of counselling skills and self and intersubjective awareness commensurate with beginning counselling practice with clients.
1. Intersubjective approaches in psychoanalysis and psychotherapy
2. Attachment and neuroscience-
3. Mirroring and attunement
4. Clinical formulation within an intersubjective framework
5. Psychosexual issues and dysfunctions impacting on human wellbeing
6. How to recognise more complex, significant or enduring mental health issues
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Supervision | 15 | 1.5 | 22.5 |
| Group learning | 15 | 1.5 | 22.5 |
| Seminar | 15 | 3 | 45 |
| Private study hours | 210 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 90 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 300 | ||
Students will be required to complete extensive pre session reading, prepare case studies for group supervision and prepare a 3000 word essay assignment.
Students will receive feedback in group supervision throughout the module and will have the opportunity to submit a plan of their summative assessment for feedback in advance of final submission
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Essay | 3000 word essay - An intersubjective approach to psychotherapeutic counselling | 100 |
| Written Work | FORMATIVE: Outline plan of summative essay | 0 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Resits will be taken in the same format as first attempts
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
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