2 ECVET/ECTS / EQF Level 7 / 2nd and 3rd year of study – IP
Module Description:
This module explores the processes of psychotherapeutic change within an integrative framework, including theoretical foundations, key factors of change, and practical strategies to facilitate therapeutic progress. The focus is on understanding how different psychotherapeutic approaches define and enable change, with particular attention to the integration of cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and bodily processes. The module also covers the therapist’s role and the quality of the therapeutic relationship in initiating and sustaining change.
Theory of Change in Integrative Psychotherapy is based on a holistic understanding of transformational processes in psychotherapy, where change occurs through awareness, emotional processing, corrective experiences within the therapeutic relationship, and the reorganization of internal and interpersonal patterns.
The module includes:
- Neurobiological and Psychodynamic Foundations of Change – how the therapeutic process influences neuroplasticity and emotional regulation.
- Phases of Psychotherapeutic Change – understanding initial motivation, resistance, crises, and key transformational points.
- Mechanisms of Therapeutic Interventions – emotional correction, working with unconscious processes, experiential learning, and interpersonal change.
- Integrative Factors of Change – combining various therapeutic strategies according to the client’s needs.
- Ethical and Professional Aspects of Facilitating Change – the therapist’s responsibility in supporting the client through the process of change.
Learning Outcomes:
Competencies
By the end of the module, students will be able to:
a) Analyze and apply various theoretical models of psychotherapeutic change.
b) Critically assess factors that support or hinder the therapeutic process.
c) Adapt interventions according to individual and contextual factors of change.
Knowledge
By the end of the module, students will acquire:
a) Understanding of key concepts in the theory of change and their significance for therapeutic work.
b) Familiarity with the phases of the therapeutic process and how clients undergo change.
c) An integrative overview of various modalities of psychotherapeutic change and their applications in clinical practice.
Skills
By the end of the module, students will develop:
a) The ability to recognize key moments in the therapeutic process that lead to change.
b) The use of tailored interventions according to the phases of change and client needs.
c) Flexibility in employing various psychotherapeutic approaches to facilitate change in clients.
Assessment of Knowledge and Competencies
The module is assessed through:
– Written assignment analysing the theory of change through a case study.
– Presentation of the change model through a practical example of therapeutic work.
– Evaluation of reflective work related to the therapist’s personal process of change.
Total Learning Hours
| Total learning hours: 60 hours | Independent study (literature, task preparation): 20 hours |
| Contact hours: 30 hours | Knowledge assessment (exams and presentations): 10 hours |