PROGRAM MISSION
The philosophy of the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) Program in Counseling Psychology is grounded in building a solid knowledge base for individuals who wish to specialize in the field of psychological counseling, as well as for professionals working in psychological counseling centers, social care institutions, and health centers who provide developmental, preventive, and therapeutic counseling services in the Kingdom of Bahrain and other Arab countries.
The program seeks to equip students with theoretical knowledge and practical skills that positively contribute to their professional development, enabling them to become competent and professional psychological counselors.
Target Group
Bahraini and Gulf professionals, as well as others holding a master’s degree in psychology across its various branches.
PROGRAM LEVEL
The program aims to prepare and qualify specialized counselors equipped with cognitive, practical, and ethical expertise in the field of psychological counseling, enabling them to practice counseling professionally in various counseling settings (educational, social, health, etc.) or to practice counseling under the supervision of a licensed psychological counselor.
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
DETAILED STUDY PLAN
- Detailed Study Plan 2025-2026 (in Arabic)   (PDF، 3.8 MB، 8 Pages)
PROGRAM OBJECTIVES
- Provide students with knowledge and theories related to psychological counseling, as well as the theoretical and cognitive foundations of normal and abnormal functioning, while linking these foundations to practical realities within the local community.
- Train students to use methods for diagnosing psychological problems by applying counseling tools and assessments in accordance with established standards and criteria.
- Equip them with the ability to plan, design, and implement intervention programs specific to psychological counseling.
- Train them in counseling skills, such as conducting counseling interviews, and developing listening and counseling communication skills.
- Raise their awareness of the ethics of psychological counseling and the legal implications of noncompliance.
- Develop a positive personality characterized by effective communication, critical and creative thinking, and the ability for continuous professional, technical, and technological self-development.
- Train them in the proper methodology for writing scientific research.
GRADUATE OUTCOMES
- Analyze psychological issues utilizing advanced assessment and diagnostic tools within the field of counseling psychology.
- Evaluate contemporary counseling psychology programs and their applications.
- Design innovative strategic projects to address challenges in counseling psychology.
- Supervise the implementation of contemporary psychological counseling programs and their applications.
- Apply contemporary counseling models in a manner that aligns with the needs of psychological cases across diverse contexts within counseling psychology.
- Produce original scientific research that contributes to the development of theoretical and applied knowledge in the field of counseling psychology.
- Employ information and communication technologies in the professional and academic contexts of counseling psychology.
- Apply the principles of ethical integrity in academic and professional practices related to counseling psychology.
