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Diploma in Group Therapy Practice (October 2025 – July 2026)
Location: Cherry Blossom Therapy, Mullingar
Accreditation: CPD Approved by IACP
Cost: €2,000 (payment plans available)
Schedule: One Monday per month for 10 months
Deposit: €500 (due on acceptance)
Balance: €1,500 paid in 5 monthly instalments of €300 from November 2025 to March 2026
Overview
Facilitating a therapy group is a unique challenge that requires presence, courage, and skill. How does a therapist stay grounded through silence, conflict, and moments of transformation while holding a safe space for others?
The Diploma in Group Therapy Practice is not just a course. It is a live learning laboratory. This warm, experiential training offers qualified therapists the opportunity to deepen their presence, strengthen their relational skills, and learn how to lead groups with clarity and confidence.
This 10-month training is designed for counsellors, psychotherapists, and other mental health professionals who are looking for an immersive, trauma-informed, and relational learning experience. From October 6, 2025 to July 13, 2026, participants will engage in a blend of in-person workshops, online resources, and guided group exercises that bring theory to life.
What Makes This Diploma Different?
Experiential Learning Lab
Actively participate in a working therapy group within the class. Learn by doing and experience group dynamics firsthand in a supportive setting.
Trauma-Informed and Relational Approach
Safety, inclusivity, and connection are foundational. This course supports therapists to take emotional risks and build relational depth with peers.
Integration of Theory and Practice
Bridge theory with practice using frameworks from Irvin Yalom (therapeutic factors), Bruce Tuckman (group development), Virginia Satir, and others. Apply what you learn in real-time group scenarios.
Use of Self and Reflective Growth
Cultivate awareness of how your presence, beliefs, and patterns shape your facilitation. Receive feedback and mentorship to help you grow as an authentic leader.
Confidence in Group Leadership
Practice facilitation skills, receive guidance on handling rupture and repair, and develop competence through live group process.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Facilitate therapeutic groups with greater skill, confidence, and ethical awareness
- Apply key group therapy models such as Yalom's therapeutic factors and Tuckman's group stages
- Recognise and navigate group and power dynamics
- Integrate trauma-informed principles in group work
- Use personal awareness and presence to support group cohesion and safety
- Respond to group challenges such as conflict, silence, emotional expression, and endings with professionalism
Course Format
- Schedule: One Monday per month from October 2025 to July 2026
- Location: Cherry Blossom Therapy, Mullingar
- Delivery: Primarily in-person with some online components for flexibility
2025–2026 Course Dates
- Monday, October 6, 2025
- Monday, November 3, 2025
- Monday, December 1, 2025
- Monday, January 12, 2026
- Monday, February 9, 2026
- Monday, March 2, 2026
- Monday, April 13, 2026
- Monday, May 11, 2026
- Monday, June 15, 2026
- Monday, July 13, 2026
Assessment and Certification
Assessment is continuous and practice-based. Learners will:
- Maintain reflective journals
- Complete written reflections and applied facilitation exercises
- Receive feedback throughout the course
- Submit a final written assignment that integrates learning from the group process
On successful completion, participants will be awarded the Diploma in Group Therapy Practice, CPD-approved by the Irish Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (IACP)
How to apply
To register your interest or apply, contact us:
Email: admin@cherryblossomtherapy.ie
Phone: 085 179 1971
Website: cherryblossomtherapy.ie
Spaces are limited to ensure a safe and supported group process. Early application is encouraged.
