Q. Could you give me a quick overview of the course?

answer » A. This course: Certificate of Applied Psychotherapy (Human Givens) is offered to all professionals and students in the area of emotional health and well being. The HG approach offers new insights and therapeutic practice to effectively deal with depression, trauma, and addictions and anxiety. In keeping with the emphasis on 'applied' the course includes innovative learning strategies and online course delivery for participants to respond to a series of challenging real-world situations as experienced qualified professionals.

Q. How much does the course cost?

answer » A. As part of the AACHP's commitment to Continuing Professional Education, Practising and Associate members pay $220. Non members may consider Associate membership of the AACHP ($95) to enroll.

Q. Why does it have this 'pretend' aspect to it?

answer » A. The program is based on the understanding of learning in context and the value of real-world situations to apply and consolidate new learning.

Q. Can I do the certificate course as I am, without adopting the 'persona'?

answer » A. Yes, a persona is not necessary when you are already involved in therapeutic practice of some kind. The taking on a persona is better suited to young people yet to experience the real-world contexts in which this learning is placed.

Q. How many essays will I have to write?

answer » A. There is only one essay of 500 words. After four years at university, I have come to the conclusion that many of the big issues in psychology had more to do with good essay topics than dealing with an emotionally distressed person.

Q. How will members from all over Australia do the practical exercises?

answer » A. In keeping with the association's commitment to members from all locations having equal access to CPD, the one-on-one therapy exercises will be done using phone Skype or FaceTime. Additionally, there is provision for those choosing to travel to Cobden (South West Victoria)to stay in a self-contained unit in my yard, complete the exercise, and perhaps visit the coast as part of a 'country retreat'.

Q. Is the certificate accredited?

answer » A. No, Human Givens Australia does not have RTO status. However the certificate provides 20 CPE points to AACHP members, and exemptions for some requirements should you consider completing a Graduate Diploma in Human Givens in the UK. Your name and practice details will be listed on the Human Givens Australia website.

Q. Can I take longer than six months to complete the course?

answer » A. Participants are encouraged to commit to the timetable. However, in the event of unforseen circumstances, provision may be made to extend this timeline.

Q. There are some things in the course I have never heard of. Caetextia, for example, how relevant is that to psychotherapy?

answer » A. Caetextia or 'context blindness', the most recent development from the HG set of organising ideas, provides a comprehensive explanation for autism/Aspergers spectrum disorders and psychosis. Practitioners qualified in the HG approach need to have an understanding of the ideas that inform the therapeutic practice.

Q. What has been the response from participants so far?

answer » A. Overwhelmingly positive. Several participants found the course confirmed a lot of intuitive beliefs they held regarding emotional distress and gave them confidence to practice new approaches. You are encouraged to contact the AACHP president or secretary to confirm the evident benefit to practitioners.