Speciality: Psychotherapy

Programme Description

The National Training Scheme in Medical Psychotherapy covers the whole of Scotland and is administered in the Scotland North. Trainees are based in one of the four Deanery areas where they will receive most of their training.

If training needs cannot be met in this area trainees will be able to access training in other parts of the country once this is agreed with the Educational Supervisor and the TPD.  

At the start of training, and prior to each change of placement, all trainees will meet with the Educational Supervisor to discuss the details of their post. If several posts are available in one region, placement decision will be based on the individual training requirements and, where possible, trainee preference will be taken into account.

The scheme aims to provide experience in all the areas covered by the college curriculum and to ensure that all Learning Objectives are met by the end of training. As well as clinical experience, trainees will be expected to gain competencies in teaching, research, audit and management skills.

An annual audit is encouraged and expected from higher trainees. The full training requirements are outlined in the Scheme Handbook which is regularly updated in line with changing College and NES requirements.

The scheme has eight posts in Medical Psychotherapy. Five single specialty Medical Psychodynamic Psychotherapy training posts leading to CCT in Medical Psychotherapy over 3 years. Two CBT modality posts which are dual training posts leading to CCT in Medical Psychotherapy (CBT) and General Adult Psychiatry over 5 years. 

One Medical Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and General Adult Psychiatry dual training post based in the North region leading to CCT in Medical Psychotherapy and General Adult Psychiatry over 5 years.

All trainees are expected to undertake external psychotherapy training relevant to their major training modality. Financial support is given for two thirds of the cost of these trainings. Additional training is provided in the Medical Psychotherapy teaching programme, 4 full days per year. Trainees are encouraged to attend and present at the RCPsych in Scotland Annual Medical Psychotherapy Conference as well as at other UK events.

Clinical opportunities exist for a wide range of placements and special interest sessions. These vary according to area but include access to MBT and CAT services, Eating Disorder services, and a service for PD patients who are homeless in addition to general psychotherapy services. There are wide opportunities for consultation, reflective practice and teaching.

The National Scottish Psychotherapy programme comprises two separate training programmes, each specialising in a particular modality of Psychotherapy.

One programme offers the main training in Psychodynamic Psychotherapy and the other the main training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy. Any programme will involve gaining some experience in the other models of therapy, including systemic or integrative.

The programme will be of interest to those interested in specialising in psychological approaches and requires a strong commitment to further specialist training.

Where is the training delivered?

Training is delivered across:

Carseview Centre, Dundee, Dykebar Hospital, Paisley, Gartnavel General, Glasgow, Murray Royal Hospital, Perth, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, Royal Aberdeen Childrens Hospital, Royal Cornhill Hospital, Aberdeen, Royal Edinburgh Hospital, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, The Queen Elizabeth University Hospital Glasgow , Dr Grays Hospital, Elgin, Sunnyside Hospital, Montrose, Wedderburn House, Dundee, Leverndale Hospital