By the end of this training you will be confident to start working with couples in your practice. This training will guide you through the theories of working with couples and the practicalities of working in relationship therapy. It will support you in starting with couples with techniques to guide you. The training will provide a strong experiential focus from watching couples therapy and role playing couples therapy to help foster the curiosity and creativity needed for working with couples who are experiencing deep and long term issues.
The training is held over four full days. From Autumn 2024 the training will include two evening workshops. The group will be small (15 max) so the training will be intense and personalised. The training is led by Karen Murphy. The IACP have approved this training for 26 CPD hours.
Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy
Couples therapy is rich, challenging, and deeply meaningful work.
This short professional training is your starting point—equipping you with core skills, a relational framework, and the practical guidance to begin working with couples in a safe and supported way. Learn how to hold two-person dynamics, navigate conflict, and build confidence in the room.
Couples Therapy Professional Certificate Details
Training Approach
The Institute of Couples Therapy offers an integrative approach drawing on Gestalt relational approaches (including the Resnicks), the Developmental Model, Terry Real’s Relational Life Therapy, Salvador Minuchin’s Family Therapy, Murray Bowen’s Family System’s Theory and David Schnarch’s Differentiation Model. It is built on the four cornerstones of Relationship, Respect, Authenticity and Curiosity.
Course Criteria
To be eligible to attend the Professional Certificate training you must be a graduate of a psychotherapy or psychology training. You must be either accredited or pre accredited by a recognised psychotherapy accrediting body or alternatively a member of the Psychological Society of Ireland. Student therapists are welcome to attend the Introduction to Couples Therapy days.
Institute of Couples Therapy
Upcoming Courses
Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy
10th & 24th January 2025
7th & 21st February 2025
Plus 2 workshops
16th January 2025 7-9pm
13th February 2025 7-9pm
Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy
10th/24th October 2025
14th/28th November 2025
Plus 2 workshops
28th October 2025 7-9pm
18th November 2025 7-9pm
Course Curriculum For Professional Certificate
- Introduction to main models of couples therapy
- Overview of Integrative approach
- Causes of difficulties in relationships
- Individual V Couples Work
- Cornerstones of couples therapy
- Differentiation
- Presenting Issues
- Vulnerability Cycle
- The Role of the couples therapist
- The search for understanding
- Assessment tools
- Communication skills
- First Sessions
- Structuring sessions
- Ethical considerations
- Integrating the work of couples therapy
- Individual sessions
- Online therapy
- Family of origin work
- Work with Affairs
- Sexual issues
- Creative approaches with couples
- Difficult presentations
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cancellation policy of the Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy?
Cancellation up to fours weeks before the start of the course will incur a 50% cancellation fee. Cancellation within four weeks of the start of the course is non refundable.
How long does the training take?
The training takes place over 4 days plus two evening workshops. The evening workshops are included starting from Autumn 2024.
Do I have to work with couples already to do this training?
No. By the end of this training you will be confident to start working with couples in your practice. This training will guide you through the theories of working with couples and the practicalities of working in relationship therapy. It will support you in starting with couples with techniques to guide you.
Is this training suitable if I already am working with couples?
Yes. Approximately a third of people who take this training have already started working in couples therapy. This training will be a valuable addition to enhance your work and bring in new skills and approaches to your current work.
I don’t want to work with couples, will this training be helpful to me?
Yes. The Institute of Couples Therapy training will give you a deeper insight into relationships and couples dynamics which will be of significant benefit in your individual client work.
Do I need to be accredited to join the Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy?
Yes. You must be fully accredited or have completed your core training and be in the process of applying for accreditation.
Will I be able to work with couples after completing the Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy?
Yes, this four-day certificate is designed to equip you with the foundational skills needed to begin working with couples. You will be resourced to start seeing your first couples following the training.
However, as couples therapy is a complex and demanding area of practice, we strongly encourage ongoing professional development. This might include:
- Supervision specifically focused on your couples work
- Continued learning through webinars and specialised training
- Reading widely in the field of couples therapy
- Engaging in peer support groups
- Listening to relevant podcasts
Staying resourced and supported is key to developing confidence and competence in this work.
Testimonials
Ready to book onto the Professional Certificate in Couples Therapy?
Check the available dates above, and make your selection to embark on an enriching learning journey tailored to your preference.
