This QCA-approved Higher Professional Diploma is designed to meet the training needs of people working at a higher level in the sector. It enables candidates to focus on the core theoretical model of counselling as well as explore a range of counselling theories, such as psychodynamic and transpersonal. Candidates also gain knowledge and understanding of specific client issues, including mental health issues, working with drugs and alcohol and counselling for loss and grief. Assessment is by means of assignment. The HPD could form the first part (120 credits) of a related foundation or honours degree.