counselling and psychotherapy masters personal statement

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PERSONAL STATEMENT EXAMPLE Psychotherapy and Counselling: Practices and Principles Personal Statement

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Psychotherapy and Counselling: Practices and Principles Personal Statement

I have always desired to understand feelings, behaviour and the human mind; always been driven toward solving the questions that start with why. However, after leading many spontaneous counselling sessions with friends, witnessing the empowering feeling it brings to simply aid someone find a way forward, instead, I also became driven toward solving the questions that start with how. I would deem it a privilege to take the time with someone to answer how they can move forward from their situation and how they can deal with whatever hand life has dealt them, as well as being able to diagnose any conditions before initiating treatment. All of these feelings have led me to aspire toward the rewarding career path of becoming a therapist or counsellor and I believe this degree would lay down the foundations I would need for this to happen. Following on from this, I would strive towards a Master’s degree in Integrative Counselling and Psychotherapy to get closer to my chosen career and enhance my undergraduate skills.

Upon volunteering with Scropton Riding for the Disabled Centre, I was able to witness the psychological impacts living with disabilities had, such as the extra sense of fear implemented in everything both the children and parents did. But on the other hand, I saw the psychological benefits the horsemanship brought to the children, even just for a small time, as they were able to express their enjoyment for an activity the same as an able-bodied child simply through laughter and smiling. As well as this, I have also participated in shadowing a health visitor, in this I saw new mothers suffering from postnatal depression but also struggling to understand the normality of this condition. From studying sociology I learnt society places many stigmas upon psychological conditions such as postnatal depression through a lack of understanding about it; I was able to apply this knowledge and analysis when observing how the mothers suffering deemed themselves as inadequate. All of this experience inspired me further toward working to help people overcome psychological conditions which inhibit their way of life and relationships with those around them. I have recently begun learning about “Straightness training” with my own horse; this is used to enhance an understanding of the psychology behind why horses act a certain way and help to find solutions. This has enabled me to witness an alternative approach to interpreting behaviour, but in a way in which the participant is not able to communicate or explain through speech. Because of this, I have been able to further develop skills in observing feelings and emotions, which I feel would greatly benefit me when doing so with humans in counselling practice.

I have studied sociology at both GCSE and A-level and from this, I have learnt invaluable skills in analysis of society as a whole, however, this has only motivated me more to learn about the individuals that make up this society. I feel studying about psychology or psychotherapy would allow me to do this through understanding not only different conditions but also the motives behind people’s actions. I have also developed the skill of being able to use studies made by sociologists in my essay writing. My essay writing skills and structuring have also developed through A-Level English Literature, as well as my analysis skills developed further through A-Level history.

I feel I would be most suitable for this course as I am able to display compassion and sympathy but also critical thinking toward a subject I am greatly passionate about. Many people wonder why someone would choose to work in an environment infiltrated with misery; however, I have reached the realisation that the ever-changing world we live in is indisputable and as opposed to dwelling on the unfortunate events, it is essential that focus is placed upon the recovery. Quite simply, I believe the perfect opportunity to make any positive change is only granted through being surrounded by what was once misery.

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Counselling Personal Statement Examples

Looking for inspiration for your counselling personal statement ? Check out our collection of counselling personal statement examples to get a better idea of what to include and how to structure your statement. 

Counselling Personal Statement

With over 10 years of experience as a counsellor, I believe I am an ideal candidate for a Master’s in Counseling. I am a mature and compassionate counsellor with solid communication skills and a proven track record of helping clients navigate challenges and find resolve.

I want to pursue a Master’s to enhance my knowledge and skills and provide an even higher level of care. The programme will allow me to expand my repertoire of methods and problem-solving skills to better serve clients. The field of counselling is constantly evolving, and continuing education helps ensure I am utilizing the latest research and techniques.

I look forward to exchanging knowledge with peers and conducting research to strengthen my practice.

Through work with adult, elderly and mental health clients, I have developed expertise in areas like risk assessment, treatment planning, and progress reviews. I have a strong foundation as a caring and supportive counsellor and aim to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. I welcome the opportunity to have my skills challenged and strengthened through practical experience in the programme.

I am an enthusiastic, diligent and motivated counsellor dedicated to helping each client achieve success. While the work can be complicated, I have the empathy, active listening skills and adaptability required to understand and convey even complex needs. I tailor my communication to meet the needs of each client and to collaborate with external partners like housing services or emergency responders.

My Muslim and ability to speak Spanish, Hindi and Punjabi allow me to provide culturally sensitive support to clients from various backgrounds. I believe an effective counsellor must commit to constant learning and development. A postgraduate degree in Counseling will provide the knowledge and competence I need to guide clients through difficult situations and choices.

I have a proven track record, relevant experience, and dedication to becoming an even stronger counsellor. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the opportunity to advance my education through your programme.

Recommended for reading:

• How to Write a Personal Statement for a Master’s
• How to Write a Personal Statement That Stands Out
• UCAS Personal Statement: A Writing Guide And Tips For Success

Counselling Personal Statement Example

I have always had the desire to understand human thoughts, feelings and behaviour. I am driven to answer not just why people act in certain ways but also how they can improve their situations and mental well-being. I aspire to become a therapist or counsellor, helping people overcome challenges and live happier lives. I believe an undergraduate degree in psychology or counselling would provide the necessary foundation, which I would then build upon through a Master’s in Counseling and Psychotherapy.

Through volunteering, I have seen both the psychological impacts of disabilities as well as the benefits of therapeutic activities. At a riding centre for disabled children, I witnessed the fear and anxiety experienced by both children and parents in their daily lives. However, I also saw the joy the children felt while doing horsemanship, an activity that allowed them to express themselves as freely as able-bodied children.

During my time shadowing a health visitor, I witnessed firsthand the emotional toll that postnatal depression and societal stigma can take on new mothers. I aim to help people overcome conditions that inhibit well-being and healthy relationships. My experience with equine therapy has helped me strengthen my skills in interpreting behaviour and finding solutions, which would serve me well as a counsellor.

I have studied sociology at the GCSE and A-level, gaining valuable skills in analyzing people and societies. However, this has inspired me to study individuals in more depth through psychology and psychotherapy . My coursework in sociology, English literature and history has also allowed me to strengthen my skills in essay writing, analysis and structuring arguments.

I believe I would excel in this program due to my ability to show both compassion and critical thinking on a subject about which I am passionate. While some may question why anyone would choose a career surrounded by distress, I see it as an opportunity to create positive change where it is needed most. Misery can only be overcome by facing it, and I appreciate the chance to do so as a counsellor.

With my relevant experience, skills and drive to become an effective therapist or counsellor. I appreciate your consideration of my application and look forward to the opportunity to advance my education in psychology and counselling through your program. 

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Postgraduate Personal Statement Example: Counselling Psychology

Reading through several examples of personal statements before you write and submit your own version can be exceptionally valuable. 

After all, personal statement examples can teach you how to write and structure your application, and you can quickly learn how to write a personal statement by examining others.

But with so many university personal statement examples available, how do you know if you’re reading a good one?

Postgraduate personal statements should highlight relevant academic and practical experience, research skills and ambitions and their suitability for the course. This postgraduate personal statement example for Counselling Psychology clearly illustrates these three critical elements.

I’ve broken down this personal statement example section by section, with a commentary on each element. 

That way, you’ll see its strengths and weaknesses and get some inspiration for your own personal statement .

Once you’ve read the personal statement example and analysis, you’ll be able to download a pdf of the whole document, to use as inspiration for your own!

Personal Statement Example: Introduction

“As a member of “Generation Z”, I am keenly aware of the potential impact of the so-called ‘age of disruption’. Many people say that the job market is going to look significantly different by the time I graduate from university, so I consider it critical to have the ability to respond positively to any form of disruption or challenge I encounter. I intend to position myself in a way that will not only result in a prosperous career but also a career that allows me to give back to society. Consequently, I aim to devote myself to social work and philanthropy. As George Bernard Shaw said: “I want to be thoroughly used up when I die, for the harder I work, the more I live.” The human mind can be enigmatic, unpredictable and vulnerable, but it can also be understood by other human minds intuitively, and one mind can connect with another very naturally. Therefore, I believe that people can connect as a result of spending time working together closely. I want to pursue this goal by using my communications and management abilities from the business sector in my study and practice of Counselling Psychology.”

Commentary and Analysis 

This introduction is complex, confusing and engaging all at once, which is quite an achievement!

On a positive note, the writer has certainly made this introduction personal, and you get the feeling that it genuinely reflects their voice, approach and sense of purpose. That’s an excellent strategy, and an effective way to communicate a message. Readers don’t want to see highly descriptive passages in personal statements, they want to see individuality, engagement and authenticity.

However, the issue I have with this introduction is that it doesn’t get to the point quickly enough. It is very hard to unpick the subject the candidate is applying for, the relevance of the content and the logical progression of thought in this example. It ‘sort of’ all ties up in the last sentence, but by that time, the reader is a bit lost. 

It would be much better to begin with a commitment to the postgraduate topic the writer plans to study and then explain how their worldview has positioned them to take on that study successfully.

If you’re struggling with your personal statement introduction, check out my article on how to write perfect opening paragraphs here .

Personal Statement Example: Academic Background

“After finishing high school, I entered a university which allowed me to engage with a wide variety of people from diverse cultural origins, socioeconomic statuses and ethnic backgrounds. In my first year, I frequently conversed with people seated next to me at breakfast, which was the first time I truly understood the gravity of mental health issues. Other students, despite their age, spoke openly and comfortably about their problems as if they were discussing what they had for dinner the night before. This made me think that in high school, people kept their problems to themselves and substituted phrases like “I’ve been pretty busy lately” for their reluctance to discuss their mental health. My interest in psychology and mental health was sparked by hearing about the mental health crises that individuals experience and by supporting those around me to manage the challenges of undergraduate study. Subsequently, I determined to pursue the subject from an academic perspective. 

Commentary and Analysis

Again, this personal statement is rich with individual connections but limited in details. The writer has expressed a personal engagement with the subject, and this is very common (and often essential in some respect) for a subject such as this. However, when focusing on undergraduate study, an admissions reader will expect to see evidence of specific and relevant skills gained, none of which feature here.

The effect is that the writer seems unqualified, academically lacking and to be working from a place of instinct rather than education. That might not be the case, but it is how the reader, who does not know the applicant, might interpret the personal statement.

If you’d like to learn more about how to structure your personal statement or statement of purpose , check out my awesome Personal Statement Template eBook here . It’s full of detailed examples of what to include!

Personal Statement Example: Practical Experience 1

“I moved in with my roommate, who was also a high school friend, in my third year. Having known her for five years, I was astonished to learn about her troubles when she revealed that she had been managing depression since she was 14. The first time we spoke to one another honestly and in detail, she told me about her parents’ high expectations for her, how she felt like she never fitted in anywhere, and her distrust of relationships. Presented with this information, my mind went blank, so I suggested that she talk to a counsellor. She then shared her challenging experience of seeing a counsellor. Her parents initially refused to pay the exorbitant fees because they saw it as a sign of fragility rather than a health problem. Then the counsellor took notes of her experiences and reported them to her parents. Hearing about someone’s troubles in such depth is a little like getting to know a brand-new person, but in doing so, I began to recognise that counselling and psychology might be future career options for me. I couldn’t help but think that if I were an expert in this field, I could help her with a practical strategy or, at the very least, say something to make her feel better.”

This section is representative of a trap that many applicants fall into. They are so keen to build a justification for their choice of course and to convince the reader of their suitability that it all comes from the heart and not from a factual, strategic perspective.

There are a number of problems with this section. Firstly, it does not focus on the applicant. Instead, we read a narrative about someone else entirely. As a result, we get almost no additional information about the applicant’s suitability for the course. Secondly, there is no reference to specific aspects of the undergraduate degree, research, knowledge or skills that will add value to the application. Thirdly, none of the content connects specifically to the course being applied for. Lastly, and just as importantly, the writer is verging on disclosure of sensitive information, and showing a degree of naivety about the confidential nature of therapeutic counselling. As a result, they may not be portraying themselves as a particularly suitable candidate for this course or career.

Check out lots more examples of personal statements here , and see how they can inspire your application!

Personal Statement Example: Practical Experience 2

“During the summer of my third year, I accepted an invitation from a Clinical Psychology professor to participate in his solution-focused brief therapy seminar. He hypothesised that ‘strategy talking’ and ‘future talking’ techniques that centre on an individual’s problem can help refocus their queries and shift their attention away from the problem onto potential solutions. I was playing an observer during the role-playing portion of the seminar when the client and the therapist broke into tears as they discussed how she never felt worthy of her mother’s attention. She was successfully led to open up about her feelings and then encouraged to think about ways to prevent the negative emotions by the graduate student acting as the therapist whose research centred on solution-focused brief therapy. The entire process was highly engrossing, and as I watched, I kept thinking about what I would say or do to help her and with whom I would start this dialogue.”

Commentary and Analysis: 

This is a better paragraph, as it gives tangible evidence of relevant experience and knowledge. Again, it turns into a highly descriptive passage, and the value of one or two sentences is stretched out over a significant proportion of the personal statement.

Whilst the brief academic content is relevant, there is not enough of it. By this point in the application, there should be layers of relevant skills and experience on show, with clear connections to the course the writer is applying for. None of that has been evidenced yet.

Additionally, courses that are related to any form of therapy expect to see examples of wider reading and research, clinical placements and internships, academic skills and industry/sector knowledge. The candidate writing the personal statement has provided almost none of these elements. Consequently, I would imagine that by this stage, an admissions reader would be likely to reject the application due to a lack of academic and experiential depth.

Of course, that doesn’t mean the writer hasn’t got those experiences. It just means they haven’t included them here, and haven’t made clear connections between their skills, ambitions and the course being applied for.

The one thing that all successful personal statements have in common is that they are concise, engaging and accurate in spelling, punctuation and grammar. Consequently, I always recommend Grammarly to my students and clients. 

It’s an outstanding tool for ensuring your personal statement is rich with detail whilst hitting those all-important word limits. Check out the free version of Grammarly here , or hit the banner for more information.

Personal Statement Example: Conclusion

“My experiences with mental health concerns help me to understand and define my personal and professional goals. I want to be helpful to society by providing genuinely positive value in each role I undertake. Studying Counselling Psychology is a way of surviving the age of disruption, establishing lasting connections between myself and others and helping potential clients to gain the techniques needed to achieve clarity of mental and emotional well-being. After experiencing the transfer from one culture to the other, I gained the skills and positivity to help others embrace and overcome difficulties and the emotional maturity and academic skills to undertake this advanced study course. I will endeavour to bring these qualities to this program and look forward to playing an active and positive role as a member of your respected learning community.”

The conclusion, unsurprisingly, continues in the same style. There’s no tangible connection to the course being applied for, no real sense that the writer understands or is prepared to manage the academic and practical demands of this subject, and little sense of personal suitability for the career.

On a positive note, the writer shows passion, genuine humanity, purpose and moral and ethical fortitude. They are conscious of the greater value of therapeutic practice in relation to the demands of the world around them but have not indicated their suitability in any real sense.

If the writer’s academic qualifications are of a high standard (which may be the case), then they might be asked to provide more details, but if this is not the case, it is unlikely that a vague personal statement like this would lead to an offer.

In summary: show tangible knowledge of the subject, relate specific undergraduate skills to the specific course being applied for, and evidence diverse wider reading and research that supports your application. Very little of that is in evidence here.

For more great advice, check out my article on writing an excellent final personal statement paragraph here .

Click here or on the banner below to get your free download of this complete personal statement example . 

Whether you’re looking for personal mission statement examples or an example of personal purpose statement, I hope this personal statement example has been helpful. Above all, I wish you every success in your academic career. 

If you’d like to work with me to develop your personal statement 1:1 and write a powerful mission statement, I’d be delighted to hear from you. 

Find out about my personal statement support services by clicking here or on the image below.

Research and content verified by Personal Statement Planet .

David Hallen

I've worked in the Further Education and University Admissions sector for nearly 20 years as a teacher, department head, Head of Sixth Form, UCAS Admissions Advisor, UK Centre Lead and freelance personal statement advisor, editor and writer. And now I'm here for you...

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Sample Counseling Psychology Personal Statement (NYU Steinhardt)

by Talha Omer, MBA, M.Eng., Harvard & Cornell Grad

In personal statement samples by field.

The following personal statement is written by an applicant who got accepted to Masters’s program at NYU Steinhardt School in Counseling Psychology. Read this essay to understand what a top personal statement in Counseling Psychology should look like.

Sample Personal Statement in Counseling Psychology

Growing up in Poland, I had internalized the stigma attached to Psychology and Psychotherapy. I was famous in my circle of friends as “the understanding one,” but I had developed a bitter taste for formally studying Psychology. Therefore, I opted for a more socially acceptable high school major – Computer Science.

But I wanted to learn about human behavior. Turning my back on the subject of my intellectual curiosity alienated me from myself. As expected, I scored miserably in high school. However, I did not give up just yet and went on to enroll in an IT program at the University of Warsaw.

Despite trying to ignite a passion for the discipline, I was inevitably headed toward disaster. A day before my first-year exams, I stared dispassionately at my book. I felt helpless and broke down into tears. At that moment, I realized I needed help from a mental health professional.

But I didn’t seek help because of two reasons. Firstly, hearing that only the crazy go for psychotherapy all my life, I could not muster the courage to deal with that label. Secondly, I only knew of Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists, and I did not want to be diagnosed or medicated.

Then I mustered the courage to cross the inner hurdles that kept me from studying Psychology. I wanted to gain insights into my emotional imbalances and tried to help myself by learning to help others. After that, I convinced my parents and changed my undergraduate central to Psychology.

This opened new doors that led me to a journey of growth and self-discovery. I met some wonderful people and began excelling in my studies. I was unanimously voted as the class representative in my second semester. Improved psychosocial support and self-efficacy began to work magic on my sense of self-worth.

Experiencing a shift from clutter to clarity, I felt a newfound affiliation with those in need. I heard about  Chayn  Poland through social media and started volunteering for it. While working at  Chayn , I was a part of an online community that created a resource portal to inform and help victims of domestic violence in Poland. It was an excellent opportunity to transmit the knowledge of the psychological aftermath of abuse to those who could benefit from it. I’m channeling the same spirit at my current job at  Social Welfare, Academics, and Training for Poland . Lending my hand in research about the psychological impact of militancy and war on the youth of Ukraine allows me to play my role in helping those in need.

Through my introduction to counseling and the humanistic model in my  Perspectives in Psychology  class, I saw the framework I could use to pursue the field of Psychology. Moreover, I realized that the humanistic school stood for the same values I had innately developed – holism; the importance of an individual’s experience, and the belief that all humans have an actualizing tendency.

Coincidentally, one of my close friends had joined a certificate course in  Humanistic Counseling  at Therapy Mission, Warsaw. I enrolled in the next session to test my interest in the subject. As part of the course, I completed 85 hours of group therapy and an equal number of lectures. I learned basic counseling skills, person-centered therapy, gestalt therapy, and transactional analysis. Being in the group was truly transformational. As group therapy generally does, the group started to represent my unconscious perception of the world for me. Some of my group members represented specific figures from the past who I had unresolved issues with. I had the privilege of working on those issues through hot-seat exercises and psychodrama enactments. Being heard changed my relationship with myself. I learned to nurture myself and develop an inner resource, which would help me cope with future distresses more intelligently. I’m currently enrolled in a diploma in  Integrated Counseling .

Stepping out of my comfort zone gave me the strength to explore further. Hence, last summer, I decided to go to Kenya for an internship through AIESEC at  Living Positive Kenya . Among other experiences, the training allowed me to practice the skills I had acquired at Therapy Mission. I facilitated a psychosocial support group of women who had HIV/AIDS. My primary strategy was to create a safe space for women to express themselves. In that space, a woman could express her thoughts, and the group would provide her unconditional presence. Though the feedback was encouraging, I realized I needed more advanced training to deal with similar issues back home. I based my conclusion on the general resistance with which the idea of therapy is met in Poland.

My strength is that I come from a place where people are skeptical about counseling. However, I understand Poland’s dire need for counseling and have experienced its value first-hand. Therefore, I want to reach out and counsel as many people as possible. Having crawled from a pit of emotional darkness towards light puts me in the position to hold someone’s hand while they do the same. Now, all I need is extra muscle.

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Counselling Masters Personal Statement

With a strong educational background and extensive experience in counselling, I believe I am an ideal candidate to embark on a Masters in Counselling, practice route.  I am a mature and responsible individual with strong communication skills who has a long standing and successful career in counselling.  I wish to develop my understanding and skills in social care and counselling, in order to enhance my existing professional role.  

The Counselling Masters will provide the next level of professionalism to enhance my clinical practice.  Building on my experience, I can develop my competence to expand methods and problem solving skills of working as a professional counsellor.  A counsellor’s role is constantly changing, not only with individual clients on a daily basis, but also with innovative research which help us understand and assist clients on an overall scale.  I am keen to share my current knowledge and practice with peers, where we can reflect upon research findings and inform the development of care practice.  This course will provide an exciting opportunity to plan and carry out research into chosen areas of counselling, such as therapeutic skills, to develop counselling theory and practice.

With over 20 years experience in adult, elderly and mental health client groups, I have gained a wealth of knowledge and practice of caring for others in a professional capacity.  I wish to explore and further my current practices and assumptions, with humanistic psychology and counselling practice.  I understand the course will enhance self reflection, awareness and knowledge.

I have gained experience in risk assessments, clinical assessments, devising care plans and reviews.  I believe I have developed a strong foundation as a caring and supportive counsellor, who makes a marked difference to people’s lives.  I am keen for professional critique and development in my professional approach in practical placements, where my theory, practice and care is challenged and pushed forward, to further assist those in vulnerable situations.

I am an enthusiastic, diligent and motivated individual who strives to achieve success in social care and counselling to each client I am assigned, and on an overall basis.  Given that social care and counselling is part of an interconnected network of professional services focused on helping a variety of clients facing distress, trauma and complex situations, complications can arise at any stage of the therapy program.  I wish to develop better ways to manage obstacles in counselling and evaluate the effectiveness of these plans.

Effective communication skills are an essential aspect of my role as a counsellor.  High empathy, active listening skills and the ability to understand client issues are examples of skills I use to help people to navigate their way through their problems and find personal resolve. I use effective and adaptive communication skills to convey client medical and psychological needs, factual information and future goals to other professional agencies, such as housing, police and home treatment teams.

Working within the social care environment, I have developed and honed ways to care for others.  I wish to expand and further my knowledge on the best practice, ethical codes and moral boundaries in counselling.  Each client presents a new and complex case, whether it is psychological, developmental or environmental.

Being from a Muslim background and the ability to speak Urdu, Hindi and Punjabi, my goal is to provide a multi-cultural supportive service to those who are from Asian cultures and religions, and to those who are unable to communicate their feelings in English.    A successful counsellor requires a constant need to learn and develop the self, in order to support and care for others.  Counselling Masters will ensure I am well-informed and competent as possible, enabling me to give the best guidance possible to clients facing tough choices and situations.

Hopefully this example Counselling Masters Personal Statement will provide inspiration for your personal statement for your UCAS application to university.

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Counselling Personal Statement Examples

• 1 Personal Statement Example Links
• 2 Career Opportunities
• 3 UK Admission Requirements
• 4 Similar Courses in UK
• 5 UK Curriculum
• 6 Notable Alumni

Personal Statement Example Links

• Personal Statement Example 1
• Personal Statement Example 2 (PhD Applicants)
• Personal Statement Example 3

Ever been drawn to the idea of providing emotional support and guidance to individuals navigating life’s challenges? Inspired by the prospect of helping others achieve mental wellness and personal growth?

If so, a career as a Counsellor could be your perfect journey. This rewarding field equips you with the knowledge and skills to offer support, develop coping mechanisms, and facilitate positive change in individuals’ lives.

A career as a counsellor involves working with individuals, couples, and families to address a wide range of mental health issues, emotional concerns, and relationship challenges.

Counsellors help their clients to understand their thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, and develop strategies to cope with stress, improve their communication skills, and overcome personal challenges.

You can work in a variety of settings, including private practices, hospitals, schools, and community organizations.

Depending on your professional choices, you might specialise in areas such as addiction, grief and loss, trauma, or family therapy, and use a variety of techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, mindfulness, and psychodynamic therapy.

A career as a counsellor can be both rewarding and challenging, as it requires a high degree of empathy, communication skills, and emotional intelligence.

👍 When writing a personal statement : Highlight your passion for the course, demonstrating your understanding of it. Use relevant personal experiences, coursework, or work history to showcase how these have fostered your interest and readiness for the course.

Career Opportunities

Someone with a degree in university course counselling can pursue a variety of careers in the field of education, counseling, and human services.

Careers in Education: -School Counselor -Career Counselor -Academic Advisor -Educational Consultant -Instructional Designer -Teacher -School Administrator

Careers in Counseling: -Mental Health Counselor -Marriage and Family Therapist -Substance Abuse Counselor -Rehabilitation Counselor -Career Counselor -School Counselor

Careers in Human Services: -Social Worker -Case Manager -Community Outreach Worker -Youth Counselor -Behavioral Health Technician -Residential Counselor

Relevant Industries and Sectors: -Colleges and Universities -K-12 Schools -Non-profit Organizations -Government Agencies -Mental Health Clinics -Rehabilitation Centers -Community Centers -Private Practices

UK Admission Requirements

The UK Admission Requirements for the university course counselling vary depending on the specific course and institution. Generally, the minimum entry requirements for a counselling course include a minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade C or above, including English Language and Maths.

Additionally, some universities may require A-Levels or equivalent qualifications in relevant disciplines such as psychology or sociology.

In terms of grades, most universities require a minimum of a 2:2 in an undergraduate degree, although some may require a higher grade. It is also important to note that some universities may require a minimum of a 2:1 in a relevant degree, such as psychology or sociology.

In addition to the academic requirements, some universities may also require applicants to have relevant work experience or volunteering experience in the field of counselling. This may include working with vulnerable people, such as those with mental health issues, or those in the criminal justice system.

Finally, some universities may also require applicants to have a satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. This is to ensure that applicants are suitable to work with vulnerable people in a counselling role.

In comparison to other courses, the entry criteria for a counselling course is typically more stringent. This is due to the fact that the course involves working with vulnerable people, and so universities need to ensure that applicants are suitable for the role.

Similar Courses in UK

Other related university courses in the UK include a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, a Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience, and a Bachelor of Science in Counselling Psychology.

The key differences between these courses are the focus of study.

A Bachelor of Science in Psychology focuses on the scientific study of the mind and behaviour, while a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology is more focused on the theoretical aspects of psychology and its application to everyday life.

A Bachelor of Science in Cognitive Neuroscience is focused on the study of the brain and its functions, while a Bachelor of Science in Counselling Psychology focuses on the practice of counselling and psychotherapy.

UK Curriculum

The key topics and modules covered in the university course counselling will vary depending on the institution and the specific course.

Generally, the course will cover topics such as counselling theory, research methods, counselling skills, professional ethics, and the legal and ethical issues related to counselling . It may also cover topics such as counselling psychology, group counselling, family counselling, and multicultural counselling.

In terms of practical work, the course may involve activities such as role-play, case studies, and simulations. It may also involve hands-on experience in counselling settings, such as working with clients in a clinical setting or in a community setting. The course may also include fieldwork, such as observation and interviewing of clients in a variety of settings.

Notable Alumni

Here are three notable figures who have obtained a degree in Counseling or a related field:

• Courtney C. Albinson – A leading expert in neuropsychological assessment, she has a Bachelor’s degree from Northwestern University, and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology and a Doctorate in Counseling Psychology from the University of Denver. Dr. Albinson is also the co-founder and director of MindWell NYC, a group psychology practice in Manhattan.
• Brené Brown – Though widely known for her research on vulnerability, courage, empathy, and shame, Brené Brown started her career with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and continued her education by obtaining a Master’s degree and a Ph.D. in Social Work at the University of Houston. Though not strictly a Counseling degree, the fields are very closely related.
• Harville Hendrix – He is a Clinical Pastoral Counselor who is known for his work on the psychology of relationships. Dr. Hendrix is a co-founder of Imago Relationship Therapy and has co-authored a variety of best-selling books. He holds a Doctorate in Psychology and Theology from the University of Chicago Divinity School and has a Master’s degree in Divinity.

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Effective Guide: Personal Statement for Mental Health Counseling

Table of Contents

A personal statement is a reflection of a person’s life and experiences. A personal statement for mental health counseling should be no different. It showcases your skills, values, and motivations while providing insight into your thinking process.

This document highlights why you are interested in becoming a mental health counselor. This document can also give potential employers an idea of the type of individual they could be working with. As a result, it may increase their interest in interviewing you.

This article provides an effective example of a personal statement for mental health counseling. It also offers tips to help you draft one that draws the reader’s attention.

What Is a Personal Statement for Mental Health Counseling?

A personal statement for mental health counseling is a document to set out your reasons and qualifications for wanting to become a counselor. This document can provide admission committees with insights into an applicant’s motivations, experience, and professional goals . A well-crafted statement can be instrumental in helping an individual secure admission into a graduate program in counseling.

How Do You Write a Mental Health Personal Statement?

A personal statement focuses on the purposes of your mental health counseling skills, academic and experience background, and how they relate. It also highlights your career goals that are related to mental health counseling. When writing your personal statement for mental health counseling, keep the following tips in mind:

Be As Specific As Possible

Think about what has led you to want to become a counselor. Highlight why you are interested in working with people who experience mental health challenges. Be specific!

Highlight Your Experiences

Focus on your experiences (both academic and professional) that have prepared you to work with this population. What did you learn from these experiences? How did they help shape your understanding of mental health?

Provide Real-Life Examples

Use concrete examples from your own life to illustrate how you have been affected by or interacted with people who experience mental illness. This will help convey that you understand firsthand the struggles faced by those living with a mental illness.

Keep Your Tone Polite and Non-Judgmental

Make sure your tone is respectful and compassionate throughout the entire statement. Mental health can be sensitive, so it’s essential to come across as supportive and non-judgmental.

Personal Statement Example for Mental Health Counseling

Below are two examples of a mental health counseling personal statement that you can use to write your own:

I have always been passionate and eager to learn more about mental health counseling. Having experienced depression and anxiety first-hand, I understand the importance of seeking professional help. I believe in utilizing evidence-based practices to help individuals cope with mental health challenges.

My interest in mental health counseling began while I was an undergraduate at UCLA. I took a course on abnormal psychology there, which sparked my curiosity about how people experience mental illness. In addition to pursuing my education in psychology, I have also gained extensive experience working with diverse populations within clinical settings. I worked in outpatient clinics and schools in the inner city of Los Angeles area communities where resources are scarce. This hands-on clinical training and my academic background uniquely prepare me for a career in mental health counseling.

Beyond possessing the necessary skill set, what drives me to pursue this field is the privilege it affords me to connect with others. It helps me build trusting relationships that can foster change down the road. It’s incredibly fulfilling for me to see clients make progress and reach their goals. It might be overcoming major life transitions or managing chronic conditions like depression or anxiety disorders.

After years of exploring options, it became evident that becoming certified as a counselor would allow me to provide personalized care using my skills. As I study at [university name], I hope to use the knowledge I have accumulated over the years to better understand mental health counseling. I picked this path to realize a lifelong dream of mine: being one of the top mental health counselors.

I would like to pursue a Master’s degree in Counseling at [University Name] with an emphasis on Mental Health. I firmly believe that counseling is one of the most effective ways to help people struggling with mental health issues.

My interest in this field began during my undergraduate studies. I had the opportunity to work as a research assistant for a professor who studied schizophrenia. This experience gave me valuable insight into the different aspects of mental illness and how they impact patients and their families. It was also during this time that I realized how passionate I am about helping people with these kinds of challenges.

In addition to my academic background, I have extensive experience working directly with clients suffering from various mental illnesses. For years, I worked as a case manager for an organization that provides support services to mentally ill adults living independently in the community. In this role, I was responsible for assessing each client’s needs and developing individualized care plans accordingly. In many cases, this involved providing counseling services myself.

I feel confident that my skills and experiences make me well-suited for a career in mental health counseling. But even more importantly, I am passionate about providing significant assistance to those suffering from mental illness. And I eagerly wish to pursue a Master’s degree in Mental health counseling at [University Name] to be more competent in the field.

To get your spot in a coveted counseling program or job, you need to write an effective personal statement in the application process. This article provides valuable tips and examples to help you craft a personal statement that impresses the admission committee.

Abir Ghenaiet

Abir is a data analyst and researcher. Among her interests are artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. As a humanitarian and educator, she actively supports women in tech and promotes diversity.

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Psychology and counselling personal statement example.

'Nurture shapes nature' - Albert Bandura.

Does society determine who we are? Moving to a new country and experiencing such a culture shock made my future seem somewhat bleak, but it wasn't my demise.

Simply observing and comparing the practises in Nigeria to the practises in London made me think about several ethical issues with disciplining students and the factors that make students in Nigeria perform to such a high standard in private schools; whether it is genetic components or the nurturing they have received living in that environment? Or perhaps a different debate altogether; the unethical disciplinary methods might lead to final causal determinism.

Subsequently I began volunteering at Holy Cross Public Primary school in a village where practises seem to differ even more so; upon speaking with the children I realised that having the privilege to school in London, had clouded my judgement and I was essentially being Eurocentric; who is to say that discipline and teaching methods over in Nigeria are archaic?

Whilst in Nigeria, I became more enthusiastic about learning why people behave the way they do, what drives them? From that I developed a particular interest in Social Psychology.

As part of my experience in Nigeria, I took part in leadership training at Apapa Sea School Training Camp where essentials such as bathing water had to be earned through commitment and effort in gruelling tasks and then working at a rental company as a secretary gave me several transferable skills such as interpersonal and organisational skills before coming back to the UK.

Travelling to the Netherlands to conduct my own research enabled me to improve my research method skills; I made observations in forests, took samples of various plant life, used statistical tests in analysing my results, and wrote a report which I then presented to my fellow students and teachers which further strengthened my ability to engage an audience.

Similarly in my other A levels, I prepare presentations based on research I have conducted outside of college, such as how the English language is used differently by males and females and correlational analysis between self-confidence and income; this has further inspired me to read psychology at university level.

The concept of attending university excites me as I am eager to conquer all the challenges that await me both academically and socially and with the experience I have gained, pursue a career in counselling.

Being an active member of the college student council, I am involved in organising social and charity events; we conducted a 'help for Haiti' campaign where we raised more than GBP100 and collected clothes for donation.

Alongside this, as an active member of my church I have been conducting Sunday school for a year together with volunteering at a citizen advice bureau, all these positions demonstrate my ability to handle responsibility, my variety of interests and commitment.

My favourite novels belong to the Malorie Blackman Noughts and Crosses trilogy, a trilogy that centres on race and class discrimination; set in an environment similar to that of Martin Luther King's time where racism was at its peak in America. However, in these books roles are reversed and it is the black people oppressing the white people.

These remarkable books lead me to draw comparisons to the Zimbardo study; why do people act so atrociously when adapting to the role society has given them?

One can not deviate into the mind of an abusive or racist person to deduce the reasoning behind their behaviour, but I intend to continue my investigation into resolving as many enigmas that exist in everyday life all around us with my psychology and counselling degree just as the beginning.

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This personal statement was written by Niaokz for application in 2011.

Niaokz's Comments

Um.. well.. i think it's pretty unique, and it got me accepted in all 5 choices soo..

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Postgraduate courses 2024/25

Therapeutic Counselling, MSc

Make a career change into counselling or enhance your professional practice with a part-time master’s degree in therapeutic counselling with flexible entry options.

Counsellors are essential to the mental wellbeing of a wide range of people in our society. Our therapeutic counselling master's will suit anyone with prior experience in a helping capacity (e.g. social services, nursing or education) who wishes to change career. It can also help you enhance your current professional practice with its insight into the theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy.

You'll be taught by a team of clinical- and research-active experts, who will provide a range of therapeutic counselling techniques derived from Clarkson's integrative model of the therapeutic relationship (2003). You'll also learn to examine and reflect upon counselling theory in relation to contextual and cultural issues. Graduates of this course will fulfil the training needs for British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accreditation.

Please note that some of the course will be delivered online in order to prepare you for the possibility of completing some working across online and telephone platforms while completing the supervised practice requirements of the course.

• Course content

Entry requirements

• Fees and finance

Human Sciences

Greenwich Campus

3 years part-time

Start month

Fees information.

For fee information related to this course, please see fees section below

What you should know about this course

• Study one afternoon and evening per week over three years.
• You will be fully supported in undertaking original research that is personally and professionally relevant.
• Benefit from our flexible entry system if you have previous postgraduate counsellor training and are seeking an accredited Master’s level qualification.
• On completion of the course, you will satisfy the training requirements for British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) accreditation.
• Located at the university's iconic Greenwich Campus.

Salwabil's story

Our MSc Therapeutic Counselling student Salwabil Miah explains why she chose the University of Greenwich.

What you will study

Course information is currently unavailable for this programme. Please contact [email protected] for more information.

Quentin Stimpson

Senior Lecturer, Counselling

About the course team

Welcome to our MSc in Therapeutic Counselling. We pride ourselves on combining high-quality teaching with world-class research and a vibrant student experience. Our teaching staff are both clinical and research active and are experts in their fields. Over 60% of our teaching team holds a teaching qualification.

Come and meet us

We are offering virtual events so that you can still experience how Greenwich could be the right university for you.

Next Open Days

Got a question?

To find out more about our Open Days and Campus Tours or if you need any assistance, please email [email protected] .

UK citizens and permanent residents

An undergraduate (honours) degree at 2:1, or above.

If your first degree does not have an experiential counselling skills element then you will be required to obtain, as a minimum, a level 3 certificate in counselling skills.

For more information, contact [email protected] or 020 8331 9000 .

You can also read our admissions policy.

Further information about entry

You will need some experience of working with people in a helping capacity.

The MSc Therapeutic Counselling is more than just an academic programme. It is emotionally demanding and requires a high level of reflexivity. You will be asked to submit a separate personal statement of at least 500 words on your interest in pursuing counsellor training. Eligible applicants will be invited to attend a small group information session, plus a formal one-to-one interview, during which the team assess your suitability and personal readiness to undertake the training.

Available to overseas students?

Can i use prior learning.

Find out more on our Recognition of Prior Learning pages.

How you will learn

Your studies will comprise of one afternoon and evening per week for three terms in Years 1 and 2, and for two terms in Year 3. Please note that some teaching will be delivered online.

Class sizes

Information coming soon.

Independent learning

Outside of timetabled sessions, you will need to dedicate time to self-study to prepare for coursework, presentations and exams. Our library and online resources will support your further reading and research. You will spend time in placements throughout the course, and clinical supervision and personal therapy are additional commitments.

Overall workload

Your overall workload consists of contact hours (lectures, seminars, etc), independent learning, and assessments. You should expect to spend at least eight hours a week studying outside of University attendance.

You will be assessed through coursework and continuous assessment.

Feedback summary

Dates and timetables.

Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.

Fees and funding

Your time at university should be enjoyable, rewarding, and free of unnecessary stress. Planning your finances before you come to university can help to reduce financial concerns. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.

Accommodation costs

Whether you choose to live in halls of residence or rent privately, we can help you find what you're looking for. University accommodation is available from £126.35 per person per week (bills included), depending on your location and preferences. If you require more space or facilities, these options are available at a slightly higher cost.

Accommodation pages

Funding your study

There is a range of financial support options available to support your studies, including the Aspire@Greenwich award for study resources that many full-time students will receive.

Discover more about grants, student loans, bursaries and scholarships. We also provide advice and support on budgeting, money management and financial hardship.

Financial support

Further costs may include (but are not limited to):

• Resources : you may need to purchase books for your studies, as well as photocopying (estimate, £200 per year)
• Memberships : you will be required to become a student member of BACP, our professional validating body
• DBS and OH checks : you must have up-to-date DBS checks and OH screening, or evidence that these are not required. Fees are payable for these (estimate around £70 currently)
• Personal therapy: 40 hours of personal therapy is also required by the end of Year 2. This will cost around £40 (upwards) per hour
• Supervision: whilst most placements provide clinical supervision sometimes a student may have to access supervision on a private basis (estimated costs £40-60 per hour)
• Report writing : whilst most placements will provide reports on students (for course assessment purposes) for free some may charge for this (estimated costs £10-40 per report).

Careers and placements

Will i have a work placement.

All students are required to be in a suitable placement throughout the course. You are responsible for arranging your placement with support from course staff.

How long is my placement?

You will need to be in a suitable placement throughout your time on the course. This will be both in term time and outside of it and usually on a weekly basis.

What sort of careers do graduates pursue?

Graduates from the MSc Therapeutic Counselling course can pursue careers as professional counsellors or use the transferable counselling skills in a range of other professions (e.g. pastoral support; advice services etc.).

Do you provide employability services?

Our services are designed to help you achieve your potential and support your transition towards a rewarding graduate career.

The Employability and Careers Service provides support when you are preparing to apply for placements and graduate roles. It includes CV clinics, mock interviews and employability skills workshops.

Each School also has its own Employability Officer, who works closely with the industry and will provide specific opportunities relevant to your own course.

Support and advice

Academic skills and study support.

We want you to make the most of your time with us. You can access study skills support through your tutor, our subject librarians, and our online academic skills centre.

Where appropriate, we provide support in academic English and mathematics. If you need to use particular IT packages for a specific module, we provide training for this.

Support from the department

All students are able to access the support services provided by the Student Wellbeing Service.

Accommodation information

Not quite what you were looking for?

We've got plenty of other courses for you to choose from. Browse our undergraduate prospectus or check our related courses below.

We've got plenty of other courses for you to choose from. Browse our postgraduate courses or check our related courses below.....

Health and social care at the University of Greenwich

You’ll learn from our expert, research-active tutors and be well supported during your work placement. You’ll benefit from great job prospects thanks to our strong links with NHS trusts and social care providers.

Visit our health and social care degrees page .

A comprehensive guide to our new physiotherapy course with Mark Dayson

Embark on an exhilarating path with our latest BSc Hons Physiotherapy course. This hands-on, practical course readies you for the clinical realm through immersive practice placements and beyond.

Health and social care degrees

Psychology at the university of greenwich.

Gain an understanding of human behaviour and mental processes and develop your research skills. Many of our courses are accredited by the British Psychological Society and some include study in fields related to psychology, such as counselling.

Visit our psychology degrees page .

Study Psychology at Greenwich

What do you aspire to be? Our BPS accredited courses provide the foundation for people interested in becoming Practitioner Psychologists.

Psychology degrees

Mode of study.

Select from the dropdown below.

If you are a UK student or have settled/pre-settled status (EU) and you want to study full-time then you apply through the Universities and Colleges Admission Service (UCAS).

If you are a UK student or have settled/pre-settled status (EU) and you want to study part-time then you can apply directly via our online application form.

If you are from outside the UK, you can apply via UCAS, directly via our online application form or via one of our in-country representatives. If you require a student visa, you cannot study part-time at undergraduate level.

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Statement of Pu...

Statement of Purpose Counselling: How to Write an SOP for MS/MA in Mental Health Counselling?

Students with a background in psychology, rehabilitation sciences, human services, social sciences, and other social science-related majors aspire to go for MA/MS in counselling abroad. Here, a statement of purpose counselling plays a crucial role in application to some of the top counselling universities like Illinois. This is because these universities assess capabilities like strong interpersonal and professional skills, commitment to developing clinical skills, acceptance of feedback, self-assessment, self-reflection, and a clear, organized, and logical communication from your statement of purpose counselling sample. Similarly, other key capabilities can also be highlighted and substantiated through an SOP.

But how to draft an exceptional counselling statement of purpose examples? Let’s discuss that at length and understand the intricate facets of a good statement of purpose counselling. 

What can lead a statement of purpose counselling sample to be rejected right away?

Ans. Plagiarism and poor syntax can get the counselling statement of purpose examples rejected.

What is the best writing style for a statement of purpose counselling psychology example?

Ans. Conversational writing keeps the narrative engaging. So, write your SOP effectively maintaining a positive tone.

How many SOPs to write for counselling?

Ans. Each university requires a separate and original SOP. Hence, you need to write a different SOP for counselling psychology for every university you’re applying to. Along with SOP, universities require program-specific writing samples as part of applications. For example, a university may require you to submit a professional statement of intent that addresses your motivation, preparation, and commitment to the field of mental health counselling and how you see yourself making an impact in the field.

How to save and submit your SOP?

Ans. SOPs have to be uploaded in PDF as part of the applications. This makes your SOP look professional and eliminates the possibility of any formatting inconsistencies. Universities may also provide forms to paste contents of SOP as part of applications with or without the option to upload it.

How to Draft a Statement of Purpose for counselling Program? 

To start writing your counselling psychology statement of purpose, brainstorm, free-write, and collect your thoughts. Your SOP should be a dive into relevant life experiences, academic and professional background (if applicable), career goals, co-curricular activities, volunteering/community involvement, and more.

So, refer to the effective guidelines given below and draft a statement of purpose masters in counselling for various programs. 

Introduction

What motivated you to choose counselling as your interest? What is the strongest experience that led you to choose this field? For example , how you are concerned about the well-being of the people around you and how the curiosity to seek answers behind why people behave the way they do, has motivated you to choose the field of counselling.

• Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing experience that is evocative of your journey into the field.
• Alternatively, you can also begin with a research problem statement that you consider exploring in your MA/MS in Mental Health counselling Program. For example, you may begin with questions like: Can we identify all the possible causes behind different behaviors? Can we correct all problematic behaviors?
• This is because some programs directly seek an SOP that is more of a research proposal than it is otherwise.

Second Paragraph

Building on the onset of interest in counselling, discuss relevant academic and life experiences that have augmented this interest. How has each of these experiences pivoted your thought process, streamlined it, or transformed it?

• Here, you can discuss relevant undergraduate experiences or courses in which you developed a particular interest. For example, you must have developed an interest in crisis management or stress management.
• Touch upon a few course specifics and how these led you to develop your portfolio and inspired you to work on projects relevant to these interests.
• You can discuss interesting projects you have worked on or relevant co-curricular experiences worth sharing. Make sure that your experiences align with your interest in the counselling program you’re applying for.

Third Paragraph

Have you faced any setbacks in your academics? If you just made the cut or have lesser scores, you can mention that here.

• Have you faced any other unique challenges or setbacks that have redefined your perspectives or interests?
• How did you overcome these challenges and what is/are the positive outcomes of these experiences?
• It’s essential to reflect on the lessons from these experiences to underscore your resilience.

Fourth Paragraph

You can discuss extracurriculars in this paragraph. Remember that universities are interested to know more than just academics. So, go ahead and speak about your hobbies, social work, volunteering, etc, here. You can also discuss workshops or certifications which you have taken to upgrade your skills.

Fifth Paragraph

If you have work experience, add it here. But if you do not have work experience, you can also discuss your internship experiences, reflecting on your specific learnings and take-aways. Identify a knowledge gap and the need for you to go for MA/MS in Mental Health counselling.

• How has the work experience/s influenced your career goals? Why do you wish to go for MA/MS in Mental Health counselling now?
• Define your short-term and long-term goals.
• How will the MA/MS program from a specific university help you achieve these goals?
• How does the program align with your areas of interest?

Your SOP for counselling psychology conclusion needs to be equally engaging as your introduction.

• What capabilities equip you to contribute to the university?
• How can you be an asset to the university?
• What activities, clubs, sports, student associations, groups, etc, piqued your interests?
• What diverse experiences do you bring to your MS/MA in mental health graduate community?

Suggested: How to Write a Good SOP? 

Do’s and Don'ts of an SOP for counselling Psychology

Your statement of purpose for counselling program should be truthful, concise, engaging, and well-written. Remember that every experience that you present should be coherent and well connected. This leaves no space for grey areas. Follow these Do’s and Don’ts in your counselling psychology statement of purpose.

Suggested: Common mistakes in Writing SOPs and Application Essay

Skills to Include in Your Statement of Purpose counselling

Your MA/MS counselling psychology statement of purpose should be in-depth and research-intensive. counselling is a unique field of study that demands a distinctive skill set to become an evidence-based clinician guiding people towards the resources they require to live robust and fruitful lives. 

From mental health clinics, schools, private practices, hospitals, community health centers, to correctional facilities, businesses, colleges and universities, social service agencies, and government agencies, one might find professional mental health counselors working in a wide range of settings.

If you too want to be one of them, for now, ensure that your statement of purpose for counselling program should portray these skills to make it unique and appealing then other students. 

• Research Aptitude
• Academic/Research Writing
• Experiential Mindset
• Understanding counselling and Techniques
• Critical Thinking
• Problem-solving
• Emotional Intelligence
• Effective Communication
• Non-verbal Communication

Suggested: Remove Your SOP Writing Fever!

SOP Requirements of Top Universities for counselling 

Most universities have similar requirements for drafting a statement of purpose masters in counselling as part of their respective applications. However, we have shortlisted a few top universities for MS in Mental Health counselling with their requirements below.

1. University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign

If you are applying for a Master of Science in Mental Health counselling at the University of Illinois , follow these guidelines.

• Share your motivations for applying to the course.
• Include your intended contributions to the prospective class at the University of Illinois and beyond.
• Include a concise narrative of your background, emphasizing clearly-defined academic and career goals.
• The SOP should focus on your research experience and research interests.
• Share your evidence of motivation for the proposed area of study.

2. Oakland University, Michigan

The Oakland University , Michigan, requires two essays as part of the Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health counselling application requirements.

• Essay one: Explain reasons for entering the counselling program and employment goals. You should describe your experiences and accomplishments working with children, youth, and adults. Additionally, relate your strengths and areas for growth from your and others perspective.
• Essay two: Here, you are required to recall constructive feedback from past instructors/supervisors and describe when you were given the feedback and how you responded to it.

Additionally, while writing the SOP, keep the following points in mind:

• Mention clear goals and highlight them to connect with the program's congruence.
• Share your experience and accomplishments.
• Highlight your awareness of strengths and areas for growth.
• Emphasize your ability to receive and accept feedback.
• Spotlight your writing skills with concise and comprehensible language.

3. University of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Please consider the following SOP pointers if you are applying for a Master of Science in Clinical Rehabilitation and Mental Health counselling at the University of Pittsburgh .

The University of Pittsburgh requires a personal statement of 500 words in length. This statement should demonstrate the following aspects.

• Include evidence of graduate-level writing skills.
• Discuss goals, strengths, skills, and experiences that will contribute to success in the program and the counselling profession.
• Include a brief statement highlighting professional appeal in counselling and motivations for applying to the counselling program.

Apart from these general instructions, every program specialization in counselling has unique requirements for SOP. Besides, the program-specific SOPs have different word limits. 

Suggested: How to Design an SOP for Masters? 

The SOP writing style for most countries remains the same. But in the case of program-specific statement of purpose for counselling, you can re-engineer the original draft to suit the university/program requirements.

We understand writing an SOP can be daunting. But don’t worry, Yocket is here to help you comprehend the nuances of an actionable SOP in terms of the format and guidelines. Therefore, choose Yocket premium and bring your educational dream to life. Our councellors are transparent with the rules, cooperative, and provide unique services. So choose them and make your study abroad journey a hassle free ride!

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How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters (17 PDF Sample Examples)

Published: 14 Mar 2022 Study Abroad 102,432 views

A personal statement for masters program is one of the most important parts of your college application and writing a good one is what’s the exception between receiving an offer and being rejected.

If you’ve been tasked with presenting a personal statement, you should keep in mind that whatever you submit must put you forward as the right candidate for the course. Additionally, it should convince the admissions officers that you deserve a place on your program of study.

Achieving the above, is a skill most postgraduate students are yet to acquire but thankfully this article on How To Write A Personal Statement For Masters covers everything you need to know on doing this.

In this article you’ll learn:

• What is a personal statement?
• Tips for making your personal statement for masters stand out
• How to write a personal statement for masters
• Personal statement for masters sample
• Examples of personal statement for masters
• Conclusion – things to avoid when writing a personal statement for masters

Read:  Admission Interview Tips .

What Is a Personal Statement?

A personal statement AKA admissions or application essay or statement of purpose is a type of essay or written statement a candidate presents to a college, university, or graduate school they are applying to, explaining why they want to attend that school, study a particular course, and why they would be a perfect fit for these things.

A personal statement for masters is an essay you submit specifically for your postgraduate application. Writing one presents the opportunity for you to promote yourself to a school and show the admissions teachers that you are the perfect candidate for a course.

Tips For Making Your Personal Statement For Masters Stand Out

Before we get into how you should write a statement of purpose for masters, we would first like to share with you certain tips to include in your essay to make it stand out from that of other applicants and be convincing enough to any admissions officer that reads it. The tips we have mentioned here, cover general things like starting and ending your personal statement, timing, length, and what to include and what not to include in the essay, etc.

1. Starting And Ending A Personal Statement

When starting a personal statement, you would want to right off the bat grab the reader’s attention. To do this, start the statement by writing about your degree of choice, next why you want to study it and then how you got interested in it.

The next 2 sentences after that should cover a summary of your background in the chosen field, and you conclude by saying what you plan to do once you acquire your graduate degree.

Also start with that the evaluators reading want to hear first, then every other information should come second. You will notice we’ve used in the sop examples for masters we will share with you later in this article.

2. Plan Ahead

A personal statement is not something you rush while writing, which means if you want to get something good before you application then you must start to decide things like the length and how long it should take to complete.

Let us throw more light on this…

For length, a personal statement should be brief ranging somewhere between 500 -700 words, although schools often detect how long it should be. So, this is dependent on the institution you are applying to.

In terms of what to say in a statement, you could include personal experiences like why you were driven to apply for the program, an experience you had with a scholar in your chosen discipline, a course you took that inspired you to pursue masters, or a key moment during your studies which further motivated you.

No matter what you decide to write, just keep in mind that you need to take your time to craft something good even if it means creating several drafts before the real thing and do not forget to proofread the statement for errors.

3. Research Your Program Of Study

Researching your program of study is one way to establish that you truly understand the discipline you’re getting into and prove to the admissions officer that you thoroughly thought about it before applying.

And because you want to put yourself forward as a serious candidate, one way to make you research easier is for you to visit the website of the department you are applying to. This page will contain information about faculty members, their specialisation, and publications.

From the intel, you gathered there you can now identify which professors match your interests and which ones you will benefit the most from learning under. After you’ve found this out, relate the same in a sentence or two in your statement of purpose for masters.

Example: “I would be honoured to study under the tutelage of Professor Nadia whose work I found resonated strongly with my beliefs and intended projects in this course”.

4. Avoid Clichés, Junks, And Many Details

When writing a statement of purpose for master degree try to avoid clichés, junks, and unnecessary details so that you don’t lose or bore your readers in between. Be as concise as possible, even if it’s your chance to express yourself.

A personal statement is an opportunity for the admissions committee to get information that tells the that you are suitable for the course. So, when you overpower your statement with too many words, stories, and useless details, you come off as someone who is just trying to meet the word count.

5. Include Your Personal History Only If It Adds To The Statement

Do not include your personal history in your statement of intent for masters if it is not relevant to your purpose of study. This means no need for you to tell that story about that time you helped someone treat a cut and immediately realised that you wanted to be a doctor or nurse or how you developed a taste for reading at a very young age.

We can guarantee you that the hundreds of other applications competing for the same spot you are felt the same way, so saying those things really doesn’t make you unique.

On the other hand, if you are going to add personal history to your statement, you can put in things like an internship you did and the experience you got from the job, a major research project you ran by yourself, publications you’ve read or published, conferences you’ve attended or presentations you’ve done. These experiences are more concrete and are directly related to your program of study. They also set you apart from other applicants.

6. Don't Use The Same Personal Statement For All Your Applications

One common mistake applicant make that you shouldn’t is using the same statement of purpose for master degree for all your applications. Using the same information repeatedly even if you are going to change the university names is risky and could land you in a big mistake on a day you forget to be thorough.

All programmes have their own unique set of questions they want to see answered and information they need in your personal statement.

And even if some of them like extracurricular activities, proposal for project, why you are applying to the school, your unique qualities, and research works you’re doing might appear the same, do not use one statement to respond to all of them.

Write a new unique personal statement every time you want to apply.

Check out:  How to Write a Good CV for Students - Resume Examples for Students (PDF).

How To Write A Personal Statement for Masters

When writing a personal statement for masters there are several steps and ground rules you need to follow to ensure that it comes out good enough to impress the admissions team of a school, and ultimately convince them to give you a spot on your program of study.

If writing one is something you are currently struggling with and can’t seem to get down the process of it right no matter what, this section on how to write a personal statement for masters, discusses in detail everything you need to get help with yours.

There are 4 parts to consider when writing your personal statement and we have listed them below:

1. Planning A Personal Statement

A personal statement is a piece of writing showing your academic interests and is only for application purposes which means there is no room for any autobiographical information in it about your personal life. Be as to-the-point as possible when writing it and stick to telling the school why you are the right person for the course, plus any other extra information detailing your achievements.

Before You Start:

Allot plenty of time to write your msc personal statement so that you don’t rush it. Remember, this simple piece of writing is your one shot at convincing a school that you are the best applicant they’ve seen and as such can either make or break your application.

Read the information expected of you from the university, rules and guidelines given, selection criteria and understand what they mean. Also research the institution.

Do a thorough research on the course you are applying for; this will help you explain better why you want to study it. The tutors interviewing you can tell when you are lying and presenting yourself as uninformed can cost you the admission.

Ensure that you don’t use the same personal statement for all your applications.

When Writing:

When writing the statement there are some questions to ask yourself that can help you plan it better. Those questions are:

• Why you want to study a master’s and how does it benefit you in future?
• How does the course you have chosen fit into your pre-existing skill set?
• How do you stand out from the crowd as an applicant - e.g., work experiences you’ve had in the same field you are applying for?
• What do you aspire to do or be as a future career and how will the course help you achieve that?
• How can your work or skillsets contribute positively to the department/ university you are applying to, or society at large?

On the other hand, if you are applying for the masters to change from the field you studied in your undergraduate to another field, you should tell the school why you decided to take a different path in your studies.

Questions to ask yourself for this include:

• Your reason for deciding to change your discipline.
• How your undergraduate degree will be material for bringing fresh insights into your masters course.
• How changing your study path will help you attain your future career.

2. Structuring A Personal Statement

Having good structure for your personal statement for master degree is important because it ensures that everything from the beginning, middle, and ending of the statement is written and equally falls in place perfectly.

We’ve left some tips for you below to help you:

Start your personal statement with an attention-grabbing introduction that is not dramatic or cliché. That means you should not begin with any of these over-used phrases we’ve listed out below:

For as long as I remember…

Since my childhood…

I want to apply to this course because I’ve always felt a strong connection to it…

All my life, I have always loved…

My interest in (course) always ran deeper than…

I’ve always been zealous about…

Ever since I was a child, I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in…

My past educational experiences have always…

You would want to be as snappy as possible with your opening because the admission officer has over a hundred applications to read and can’t waste all their time on yours. This means you should avoid overpowering it with unnecessary facts, quotes, and stories from your life.

The middle part of your ma personal statement is where the main content of the write-up should be. This is where you show your dedication to the course you’ve chosen, what motivated you to choose it, and why you are the right candidate for it.

When writing the middle part of a graduate personal statement, you should:  

• Give concrete reasons why you want to study a course at the University. The reason could be because of how the course is aligned to your future career or the University’s reputation in teaching that program.
• Mention relevant things like projects, dissertations, or essays you’ve done, and any work experience you have.
• Show proof of your core skills like and how they can contribute to the department.
• Prove what makes you a unique candidate.
• Discuss who your main influences for wanting to study the course are and why.
• Add experiences like memberships to clubs that are related to your field, papers you’ve written before, awards, scholarships, or prizes.
• Draw focus to how the course links to your past and future.
• Mention your academic and non-academic skills and how they fit the course.

For Formatting:

• Keep the statement length between 250 -500 words or as directed by the school.
• Sentences should be no more than 25-30 words.
• Use headings to break up the content – Why this university? Why this subject? Etc.
• Make claims and provide evidence to back each of them up. This can be done by discussing your work experience and academic interests.

Language and tone to use:     

• The tone for your masters application personal statement should be positive and enthusiastic, to show you eagerness to learn and so that you convince the evaluators that you have what it takes to succeed.
• Use exciting and refreshing language, and an engaging opening line.
• Ensure you grammar, punctuations, and spellings are accurate.
• Avoid exaggerated claims you cannot backup.
• Don’t use cliché generic terms and keep your focus on the course.

Keep the ending of your essay for master degree application concise and memorable, leaving no doubt in the admission officers mind that you deserve a spot on the program.

To create the best ending summarise all your key points without dragging it our or repeating yourself. The ending should be simple, end on a positive note and make it clear that the school will be lucky to have you on their program.

Personal Statement for Masters Sample

In this section, we have left a masters personal statement example for you, which you can use as material to write yours for any course of study you are applying to a school for.

Personal Statement PDF

You can also download this statement of purpose sample for masters degree pdf here and take your time to read it later – Personal Statement For Masters Sample .

See Also:  Student CV Template .

Examples of Personal Statement for Masters

We have taken the time to source for some of the best postgraduate personal statement examples, which you can use in addition to the personal statement for masters program example as a template to write yours.

While you scroll through our list, you will find the perfect masters essay example for any field you wish to apply for, from business administration, to Psychology, to information technology, and lots more.

1. msw personal statement

We have found one of the best msw personal statement examples out there for you.

social work masters personal statement .  

2. personal statement for masters in public health

mph personal statement examples

3. personal statement for masters in management

Personal statement for master degree sample for masters in management .  , 4. personal statement for masters in education example.

personal statement for masters in education example

5. psychology masters personal statement

psychology masters personal statement example

6. sample personal statement for masters in data science data science masters personal statement

7. speech and language therapy personal statement statement of purpose for masters sample: speech and language therapy

8. business administration personal statement personal statement for masters in business administration

9. personal statement for masters in cyber security pdf masters degree personal statement examples for cyber security

10. personal statement for masters in finance msc finance personal statement examples

11. statement of purpose for masters in information technology pdf msc personal statement examples for information technology

12. international development personal statement statement of purpose for masters example

13. msc international business management personal statement international business management personal statement examples

14. computer science masters personal statement

statement of purpose for masters in computer science pdf

15. personal statement for masters in economics statement of purpose sample for masters degree in economics

16. mha personal statement statement of purpose format for masters in health administration    

Conclusion – Things to Avoid When Writing A Personal Statement For Masters When writing a personal statement for university masters, there are some things you should avoid, so that you don’t ruin your essay. We have listed out those things below: •    Avoid negativity. •    Following an online template blindly. •    Do not include unnecessary course modules, personal facts, or extra-curricular activities in your personal statement. •    Do not lie or exaggerate an achievement or event. •    Do not include inspirational quotes to your statement. •    Avoid using clichés, gimmicks, humour, over-used word such as 'passion' or ‘driven’. •    Do not make pleading statements. •    Avoid mentioning key authors or professors in your field without any explanation. •    Avoid using sentences that are too long. •    Avoid flattering the organisation or using patronising terms. •    Do not repeat information in your statement that you have already listed in your application. •    Avoid waffling i.e., writing at length. •    Don’t start writing your personal statement at the last minute.  

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Tips for Writing a Personal Statement

Keep your writing straightforward and honest..

Posted October 16, 2019

Here are some situations that require writing a personal statement:

• Applying to college
• Applying to special camps or programs
• Applying to graduate school, law school, or medical school
• Applying to an internship program
• Applying for a job
• Applying for a promotion
• … and more!

Like it or not, you’ll be writing personal statements (sometimes referred to as a "statement of purpose") pretty much throughout your adult life. I bet that some retirement communities may even require personal statements in their application process!

As a college professor for over two decades, I’ve advised and edited hundreds—even thousands—of personal statements for students. I take this work seriously, as I know how these statements have the capacity to make or break an application.

Based on this experience (see my new book Own Your Psychology Major! A Guide to Student Success ), below are some tips for making your personal statement sing, along with some classic no-nos in the process.

Tips for Making Your Personal Statement Sing

First and foremost, realize this: A large but often-unstated purpose of this statement-of-purpose assignment is to allow folks to get a sense of your writing skills. Keep this point in mind the whole while. Here are some other tips:

1. Keep it short! Students often develop this idea that the longer their paper is, the better. As my mom would say, the opposite! All things being equal, you should use as few words as possible in trying to make your point. Think about the points you are trying to make and then make those points.

Efforts to add fluff are always pretty obvious. Further, the people reading your application may have dozens or even hundreds of applications to sift through. Do them a favor by keeping it short!

2. Avoid the big-word trap. Sometimes, students feel a need to use all kinds of fancy, multi-syllabic words in their writing. Try to avoid this trap at all costs! All things being equal, I suggest this approach: Write exactly as you speak (minus slang and, of course, any profanity!).

Sure, you may use some fancy words every now and again in your speech. But speech is all about communication—trying to get someone else to understand something. Writing is no different. Big words used for the sake of using big words are not doing anyone any favors.

3. Follow the guidelines. Whatever the details of the particular application process, know that there are going to be specific guidelines. This all may pertain to word count, specific questions that you are asked to address, etc.

Here is the simplest possible suggestion I can give you: Read those guidelines and follow them 100 percent in every single way. Doing so will make sure that you make it into the pile of applications to be even considered.

4. Proofread your work. Imagine this scenario: You are applying to a job at Southeast State University. After you have submitted the application, you reread your cover letter. Check it out:

“… I am thrilled to be considered for this position at Southeast State University. …. In conclusion, let me say that I am excited about this opportunity at Fresno Institute of Technology. …”

Given that you are applying to multiple positions and/or programs, it is very likely that you are writing statements that are “tailored” for each particular position and program. That is fine and is typical. But the second that you write the name of the incorrect institution in your letter due to a lack of detailed proofreading, you might as well be throwing your application into the recycling bin. Proofread your letter carefully before sending it.

5. Have an “expert” look things over. When I was a senior in college, I recall my advisor, the formidable Dr. Gwen Gustafson of the Psychology Department at UCONN, suggesting that I bring a draft of my personal statement for her to look over before applying to Ph.D. programs. So I did.

I was surprised by how much red ink she put on my paper. But I was also grateful . And I also learned a lot. Every suggestion that she had made sense. And, at the end of the day, I took those suggestions, worked hard, and got into a great Ph.D. program in psychology that shaped the rest of my life in positive ways.

Your professors and mentors have sat on admissions and hiring committees for years. Use their wisdom to your advantage. And pay things forward when you are older and wiser.

Personal Statement No-No’s

1. Don’t overemphasize personal details. A letter that focuses on your own personal traumas and history will only go so far. Sure, it is often the case that someone has a significant personal event or history that is influential in shaping his or her interests. Myself included.

But letters that over-emphasize one’s own adversities lose a bit when it comes to getting members of a committee to see the applicant in a professional setting. Sure, you may have baggage. And it may well ultimately have come to shape you in a positive manner. But unless the guidelines of the letter are asking about that in particular, don’t make that your headline.

2. Remember that you are not texting your friend. Be professional in your statement of purpose. Don’t use emojis. Don’t use acronyms. Use your most professional and respectful writing and communication skills. You can send all kinds of silly texts to the group chat about it after you’ve been accepted...

3. Seem like you care about them. A statement of purpose, or a personal statement, is largely about you. But the last thing you want to come across as is unempathetic and disinterested in the organization and/or program that you are applying to.

If you are applying to the master’s program in mental health counseling at Western State College, learn about who they are. Care about who they are. And include something in your statement which demonstrates that you both know about them and care about who they are.

Bottom Line

Modern professional life these days includes writing personal statements/essays at various junctions. Pretty much forever. Don’t be daunted by this task. You should be proud of who you are and capable of describing yourself, your interests, and your goals in a clear, engaging, and powerful manner.

Write from your heart. Follow the guidelines. And follow the common-sense suggestions here. You’ll go far.

Geher, G. (2019). Own Your Psychology Major! A Guide to Student Success. Washington, DC: American Psychological Association.

Glenn Geher, Ph.D. , is professor of psychology at the State University of New York at New Paltz. He is founding director of the campus’ Evolutionary Studies (EvoS) program.

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Counselling Personal Statement

Sample Counselling Personal Statement

Having always pursued study and work that allows me to make an impact on the lives of the vulnerable through a range of therapeutic approaches, Occupational Therapy Counselling is an obvious field through which I can continue to develop these skills and passions. What excites me most about the potential of Counselling & Occupational Therapy is the focus on the promotion of health and wellbeing rather than on mediating the negative effects of health-related problems. Learning more about this inspiring approach to changing the lives of clients through studying a postgraduate diploma at a prestigious university will allow me to achieve my ultimate goal of making a similar impact in my own career.

I have always been interested in the ways in which different therapies can be applied within different situations. After completing my high school studies in my native Croatia, achieving strong grades throughout, I pursued this interest through the study of Psychology at Thames Valley University. I found that I particularly enjoyed modules related to the practical application of psychological therapy within the field of healthcare, such as Health Psychology and Counselling Psychology. This ultimately led to me undertaking an MSc in Health Psychology, where I studied elements of healthcare promotion and communication, alongside the design and execution of healthcare research. Study in these areas has not only offered an excellent foundation of broader psychological knowledge but has also introduced me to principles which are fundamental to Occupational Therapy, including experience of communicating with clients to assess and respond to their individual needs.

I have gained experience of enacting these principles within the workplace through my work with the East London NHS trust. Starting out as a Social Therapist and now working as an Assistant Practitioner, I have been responsible for co-designing and implementing care plans for adults with a range of mental health difficulties. This includes using strong communication skills to talk to clients and colleagues about the best way to proceed in the case of each individual service user. We offer a range of solutions, based on the needs of our clients, which may include physical and psychological therapies, supervised activities and employment advice. I also work alongside nursing staff, psychologists and Occupational Therapists to improve their in-patient experience through facilitating therapeutic groups; including anxiety/anger management, problem solving, health promotion, relaxation and other ward based activities. I have found that the most rewarding element of the job, as you might expect, is the promotion of recovery and he focus on social inclusion. The ultimate goal of all therapies must surely be to allow the patient to live the fullest life possible, and it is the constant, dedicated work towards this goal that I have observed Occupational Therapists pursuing that inspires me to join their ranks.

In my spare time away from work, I have been keen to continue my studies for some years. To this end, I have gained a greater idea of current developments within the field of Occupation Therapy by reading books and journals dedicated to the subject. Combining this theoretical knowledge with my practical, professional relationship with the discipline, forged through my job, I believe I have gained a good idea of the challenges and rewards that the field offers and my suitability to pursue it.

Having worked hard to gain the knowledge and skill necessary to play a proactive and essential role in the lives of those in need, I am keen to continue improving on my ability to make an impact by completing a postgraduate diploma and, ultimately, registering with the Health Professional’s Council and applying for membership of the British Association of Occupational Therapists.

We hope this sample Counselling personal statement has been helpful

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Dr. Joseph H. Hammer

Associate Professor of Counseling Psychology

Personal Statement of Purpose for Counseling Psychology PhD and PsyD Applications

All counseling psychology doctoral (PhD or PsyD) programs require applicants to submit one or more written essays about why the applicant is interested in and qualified to enter that graduate program.

Each program calls these essays by different names, including “Personal Statement”, “Statement of Interest”, “Statement of Purpose”, “Statement of Professional Goals”, “Career Goals Statement”, “Personal Essay”, and various combinations of those terms. Programs may have you write a single statement or multiple statements (e.g., Personal Statement plus a Diversity Statement).

Writing a good statement is one of the hardest parts of applying to counseling or clinical psychology graduate programs.

One of the things that makes it hard to apply is the ambiguity and mystery that surrounds statements: what should I talk about? How long should it be? Do I talk about my experiences and interests in research, applied psychology (e.g., helping others by being a supportive listener), working with diverse groups of people, or what?

To help prospective applicants to counseling psychology doctoral programs, members of the HAMMER Lab analyzed what programs told applicants they should write about in their statement.

Check out our Counseling Psychology PhD and PsyD Personal Statement of Purpose Questions google spreadsheet to see the detailed analysis. See the bottom of this page for how we went about collecting data.

Before we review the take-home points of our analysis below, a brief reminder: be sure to check out my other  Psych Grad School  resources using the menu above, such as  Graduate School Advice ,  Counseling Psychology Faculty Research Interests List ,  Best Doctoral Programs in Counseling Psychology , and  What the Ideal Graduate School Applicant Looks Like .  I also recommend completing the  Mental Health Professions Career Test , which will give you interest scores on 21 different mental health occupations, including counseling psychology and clinical psychology.

Take-Home Points

Below are the key results from our analysis, the take-home points that every applicant should keep in mind:

• Most programs provide provide a suggested or required statement page or word length in their instructions. The most common request is 2-3 single-spaced pages . On the shorter end, some programs restrict applicants to 500 words maximum.
• 90% of the counseling psychology doctoral programs we sampled (N=50) instruct applicants to talk about their professional goals and career aspirations. In other words, no matter what programs you apply to, you should discuss this in your statement. Specifically, you should talk about your professional goals and how getting the specific doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) at that specific program (given the unique strengths and opportunities afforded by that program) will facilitate these goals.
• 52% instruct applicants to talk about their background and relevant experiences but may not clearly specify the type of experiences the applicants should discuss. (Many programs do specify the type of experience to talk about; see bullet points below.) As a rule of thumb, when applying to PhD programs, you should be ready to discuss research, applied (i.e., helping, listening, counseling, clinical), and multicultural experiences. When applying to PsyD programs, you should prioritize discussing applied and multicultural experiences (you can mention research too, especially if that program specifically requests it).
• 52% instruct applicants to clearly indicate why they want a counseling psychology doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) specifically. In other words, why not a clinical psychology degree, counseling psychology master’s degree, or a master’s in social work degree instead? Some PhD programs often want to know why you are specifically interested in the PhD instead of a PsyD (and vice versa). Even when a program does not ask you to address this specifically, I recommend always discussing how that particular degree will help you work toward your career goals.
• 59% of PhD programs (13% of PsyD program) instruct applicants to talk about why they are interested in that program specifically (versus similar programs at other institutions across the country). As a faculty member at University of Kentucky’s counseling psychology PhD program, I understand that people who apply to our program are also applying to other programs. (I always advise students to apply to 7 to 10 programs across the country that fit their professional goals, since getting into a given doctoral program is hard and you need to apply to multiple programs to maximize your chances of being offered admission.) However, even if an applicants is applying elsewhere, I still want to know “why us?”. I want to know that the applicant has carefully considered the strengths and opportunities that our program has to offer and has applied because of those unique attributes. If an applicant does not mention specific aspects of our program, then I don’t know if they are truly interested in our program or are just treating us as a “safety school” or “backup plan”. Since finding the right graduate program is more about “fit” between applicant and program rather than “being the best applicant”, I want to hear how the applicant sees themselves uniquely fitting with our program. Thus, even when not asked explicitly to address this, I recommend always discussing what attracts you to that particular program.
• 41% of PhD programs (13% of PsyD programs) instruct applicants to talk about their research interests. This serves two purposes. First, because PhD programs train students to be both scientists and practitioners (and some also train people to be advocates), the doctoral admissions committee want to see that a student has thoughtful research interests (not too broad, not too specific, and sufficiently flexible given that students are still early in their professional development) and is serious about wanting to get additional research training as a doctoral student. Second, some PhD programs prefer to admit students whose research interests overlap with the research interests of one or more program faculty members. More on that in the next bullet point. I recommend always discussing your research interests when applying to PhD programs even if not explicitly asked to do so by the program’s application instructions.
• 27% of PhD programs (0% of PsyD programs) instruct applicants to talk about how their research interests fit with the research interests of specific program faculty members. These programs tend to use an “apprenticeship model of research mentorship”, meaning that doctoral students apply to work under a specific core faculty member in that program, who will work closely with them to train them in the theories and techniques used to do research on the topics of interest to that faculty member. The expectation usually is that the student will help that professor out with the professor’s program of research while the student is enrolled in the program (and that the professor will help the student start to build the student’s own line of research, which will usually be topically related to the professor’s line of research). Therefore, programs that use this apprenticeship model often value selecting an applicant for admission based, not only on that student’s fit with the wider program, but on how well that student fits with a particular professor’s research team. Our counseling psychology PhD program at the University of Kentucky uses this apprenticeship model and this is why we explicitly ask all applicants to pick one (two at the most) professors with whom they could fit research-interest-wise. However, while only 24% of programs explicitly instructed applicants to address research fit with a professor, some programs implicitly expect you to address this . This is part of the “hidden curriculum” of graduate school–sometimes people expect you to know certain things, but you won’t unless you have a mentor who clues you in to this insider knowledge (or you happened to read it on the internet or a how-to guide). The tricky part is that you won’t always know if a given program wants you to talk about research fit with a professor. When the program’s website or application instructions does not provide clear guidance, I recommend that you make a case in your statement for how your research interests fit well with the research interests of one (maybe 2) of the professors in that program. Bear in mind that some programs do not use an apprenticeship model and instead select students based on overall fit with the program rather than research fit (they will often make this clear on their website/instructions), in which case you don’t have to spend time in your statement articulating research fit.
• 24% of PhD programs (13% of PsyD programs) instruct applicants to talk about their research experiences and qualifications. Even if a given PhD program does not explicitly request this information, you should always talk about this, as it’s an implicit expectation. However, make sure you are not just restating the information you listed under the “research experiences” section of your CV.
• 16% instruct applicants to talk about their past experiences with diverse people or cultures. However, even when a program does not explicit ask for this, I do recommend that you talk about this when discussing past research/applied/professional experiences. My anecdotal experience suggests that most programs like to see evidence in your application that you have experience working and/or living alongside people who share both cultural similarities and differences from you in terms of race/ethnicity, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, (dis)ability, religion, etc. However, because some people grew up in culturally homogeneous places (surrounded by people with similar cultural identities), what’s even more important than past experience with diversity is a genuine desire moving forward to (1) learn about yourself as a cultural being with multiple identities that may carry privilege and marginalization, (2) learn to work productively with colleagues and clients who are both similar and different from yourself, and (3) learn about how interlocking systems of power influence your life and the lives of others (e.g., racism, sexism).
• 16% instruct applicants to talk about their interests, beliefs, aspirations, and/or contributions to social justice, diversity, equity, inclusion, etc. This is related but different from the “past experiences with diversity” aspect mentioned above. These pieces go beyond past experience and capture what you value and how you (plan to) contribute to making the world a more just place. This is increasingly at the heart of counseling psychology as a specialty. As with the prior bullet point, even though a minority of programs explicitly instruct applicants to address this in their statement, my anecdotal experience is that most programs want to see you incorporate this into how you talk about your experiences and goals related to both research and practice.
• 26% instruct applicants to talk about their past applied (i.e., helping, listening, counseling, clinical) experience. All counseling psychology doctoral programs train their graduate students to be talk therapists, which requires being a good listener, showing empathy, problem solving abilities, a willingness to tolerate ambiguity, an openness to both positive and constructive feedback, and demonstrating cultural humility and sensitivity. To determine which applicants show promise as future psychotherapists and would therefore be suitable for admission into the doctoral program, one thing we consider is your past applied experience. Faculty want to see that you have (1) some practice with basic helping skills, (2) at least one letter of recommendation from a supervisor of one of your helping experiences that states that your helping skills are good and that you show promise as a future talk therapist, and (3) a clear track record of wanting to further develop your helping skills by seeking out relevant opportunities. Talking about your past applied experience in your statement is one way we can gather evidence about #1 and #3.
• 25% of PsyD programs (6% of PhD programs) instruct applicants to talk about their theoretical orientation, their understanding of mental illness, and/or their understanding of how people heal and change. An applicant’s answer to these questions can provide hints to faculty about how sophisticated that applicant’s clinical abilities may be. These are hard questions to answer well without having taken graduate-level therapy coursework, and more sophistication will be expected of applicants who would be joining the doctoral program after having completed a talk-therapy-related master’s degree than would be expected of applicants who joined the doctoral program after having completed only a bachelor’s degree. Most programs do not ask about this topic and there is not an implicit expectation on behalf of programs that you address this in your statement.
• 16% instruct applicants to talk about their professional strengths and/or weaknesses. Most programs do not ask about this topic and there is not an implicit expectation on behalf of programs that you address this in your statement. For those programs that do, remember that you need to strike a balance between “selling yourself” appropriately in terms of strengths and not sounding arrogant when doing so. Likewise, some weaknesses are going to be socially acceptable (e.g., typical areas of growth for new graduate students like managing mild perfectionism) whereas others will cast a shadow on your application (e.g., poor interpersonal skills, cultural insensitivity, difficulty with time management, difficult with autonomous functioning), even if they are true. While you might not need to talk about strengths and weaknesses in your statement, it’s likely you’ll have to talk about this during interviews, so make sure to put some thought into this before going on interviews.
• 38% of PsyD programs (10% of PhD programs) instruct applicants to address how the program will benefit them. This question is a combined way of asking the 3 questions of “What are your professional goals?” and “Why do you want a _____ degree specifically” and “Why are you interested in our program specifically?”. Regardless of whether a program explicitly asks this or not, there is an implicit expectation that your statement always address how your completing this chosen program will bring you closer to achieving your career goals.

In regard to our data collection strategy, our team used APA’s list of accredited counseling psychology doctoral programs (both PhD and PsyD, both counseling psychology and “combined” programs, N=84 at the time of data collection in September of 2019). We navigated to each program’s “how to apply” page to look at what instructions they provided regarding what the student should talk about in their statement(s). We copied and pasted this information into in the Counseling Psychology PhD and PsyD Personal Statement of Purpose Questions google spreadsheet. You’ll notice that we de-identified what instructions come from which program, as the point of this analysis is to get an overall snapshot, rather than to learn about a specific program (you’ll want to see the program website for that info). Some programs did not provide this information on their website but required applicants to create an account in the application portal in order to access the instructions; for our purposes, we did not include these programs in the analysis. Thus, readers should bear in mind that our analysis is based on a subset of programs that is not guaranteed to be representative of all programs. Our final sample was N=50, of which n=42 were PhDs and n=8 were PsyDs. We analyzed the set of instructions to look for topical themes (e.g., career goals), which we then coded for across programs so that counts and percentages could be created. We also calculated descriptive statistics broken down by program type (PhD vs PsyD).

BA (Hons) Counselling and Psychotherapy: Reflexive personal statement

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Thank you for your application for a place on the BA (Hons) Counselling and Psychotherapy programme.

As part of the application process, you have been asked to write a reflexive personal statement, which details your personal and emotional process around wanting to study to become a Person-Centred Experiential counsellor/psychotherapist.

There is no word limit and we invite you to write freely, congruently and reflectively.

Y ou are invited to respond to the following questions :

• Please consider, and describe, your reasons for wanting to embark on this programme at this time in your life.
• Please tell us about understanding of Person Centred Experiential (PCE) therapy.
• Please write in detail about the ways in which the PCE approach relates to your own personality and experiences. We would like to hear about any ‘conflict’ as well as the ‘fit’ for you. You are not expected to know a vast amount about the approach, so do not feel threatened by this question. We are asking this question as we believe that the ‘fit’ between the person and the core theoretical model is very important in training.
• Please read the following quote and then share your reflections on what this might mean for you:

The successful outcome of person-centered counselling is in direct proportion to the authenticity and integrity that the counsellor brings to its practice, and the growth and healing of clients depends on the deep human connection we are able to establish with them. The ongoing task for those of us who choose person-centredness as the core of our profession, is continued development of our capacity to be wholly and authentically present in the world, to abdicate power and control over others with whom we work, to tolerate their pain and struggle, and to grow in the exquisitely respectful attitudes of empathy and positive regard. Such a challenge infuses our work with continuing personal growth, energy, creativity, and fluidity Natiello, 2012:14

• Please tell us what you think the emotional demands of this programme will be for you personally.
• Please read the following quote and then share your reflections on what this might mean for you (note that ‘experiential therapy’ here is shorthand for ‘person-centred experiential’ therapy):

Tenderness is really important in experiential work, and is particularly so within this aspect of encounter. Tenderness, perhaps, is a rare quality in today’s fast-paced, consumer-oriented and media-constructed society. Little attention seems to be paid to the  small moments in-between. Careful  and  soft attention  is  necessary  to notice these small moments within the client’s process. When we do pay such tender and careful attention, then it becomes more likely that we are  sufficiently  meeting the client in their process and more likely to  fully receive  them. Experiential therapists in training are encouraged to cultivate their ability to carefully and tenderly notice these moments and to attend to them with care and compassion Westwell, 2016: 68

• Please write about your qualities as a listener.
• Please tell us what your understanding of personal development is within the programme. We would like to hear your reflections around what it might be like for you to share your feelings and vulnerabilities with the group. We would like to hear about any relevant previous experience you have of emotion-focused group work.
• Please tell us what you understand by the term ‘therapeutic use of self’.
• Please describe your understanding/or expectations of the way in which you will learn to develop/become a therapist.
• Please describe how you expect to have grown by the end of the programme.
• What are your thoughts about making such a deep personal commitment to training to become a PCE therapist?
• Please describe your own philosophy towards human suffering? How might you be with someone in their suffering?
• Please share with us anything else which you think is personally relevant to your application.

Reference list

NATIELLO, P., 2012. The person-centred approach: A passionate presence. Ross-on-Wye: PCCS Books.

WESTWELL, G. 2016. Experiential therapy. In: P. WILKINS, ed.  Person-centred and experiential therapies.  London: Sage. pp. 64-76.

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