GradCert/PGCert Psychological Wellbeing Practitioner Training at University of Reading

Programme overview

A BPS-accredited training course that qualifies graduates to work as Psychological Wellbeing Practitioners in NHS Talking Therapies services, delivering low intensity CBT-based interventions to adults with common mental health conditions. It is delivered by the Charlie Waller Institute and follows the NHS Talking Therapies National Curriculum for PWP training.

Faculty: School of Psychology and Clinical Language Sciences | Department: Charlie Waller Institute | Duration: 1 year full-time (12 months); 2 years part-time (from September 2026, September cohort only) | Intake: February and September | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Combines university teaching (1 induction day, 31 structured teaching days and 19 university-directed study days) with supervised clinical practice of at least 80 clinical hours and 40 supervision hours. Modules include Engagement and assessment of common mental health problems, Evidence-based low intensity treatment of common mental health problems, and Values, employment and context (20 credits each).

Career pathways

Qualified PWPs can progress to senior roles (NHS bands 6 to 8a) in management, leadership or clinical specialisms, or train further as high intensity therapists, clinical psychologists or counselling psychologists.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Graduate route (GradCert): a level 5 qualification is required; applicants with a level 3 or 4 qualification may apply and must pass a pre-entry essay assessing level 5 academic competence. Postgraduate route (PGCert): a level 6 qualification (a degree at 2:2 or higher, in any subject). All applicants: excellent interpersonal skills and some paid or voluntary experience supporting people with anxiety and/or depression; access to suitable patients and Step 2 supervision in an NHS Talking Therapies service (or suitable placement if self-funding or employer-sponsored). Most students are employed as trainee PWPs, funded by the NHS.

Domestic applicants: GBP 7,000 a year (2026/27). Self-funding or employer-sponsored full-time; NHS-funded trainees have fees covered; 2027/28 fee not yet available Source

Intake: February and September

Duration: 1 year full-time; 2 Years part-time

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