SGT University Gurgaon PG Diploma Counselling and Psychotherapy: Fees 2026, Course Duration, Dates, Eligibility

Ans. The PG Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy at SGT University is offered under the School of Behavioural Sciences, which is recognised by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) for specific programmes such as the Professional Diploma in Clinical Psychology and M.Phil. (Clinical Psychology). However, the PG Diploma in Psychotherapy and Counselling itself is a university-level diploma and is not a standalone RCI-recognised qualification. Graduates who wish to practice as registered clinical psychologists in India are advised to subsequently pursue the M.Phil. (Clinical Psychology) from an RCI-recognised institution. The PG Diploma is best suited for those seeking to enhance their counselling skills for roles in corporate wellness, school counselling, community mental health, or private practice under supervision.

Ans. The PG Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy is a 1-year programme (Rs. 30,000 per annum) focused on practical training in psychotherapeutic techniques and is open to MA/MSc Psychology graduates. It does not confer RCI registration eligibility. The M.Phil. (Clinical Psychology), on the other hand, is a 2-year programme regulated by the Rehabilitation Council of India (RCI) and is the mandatory qualification for practicing as a registered Clinical Psychologist in India. The M.Phil. involves intensive supervised clinical training, case formulation, and research. If your goal is to become a licensed clinical psychologist, the M.Phil. is the required path; the PG Diploma is a supplementary qualification for skill enhancement.

Ans. The programme covers all major evidence-based psychotherapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, and Humanistic Therapy. Beyond theoretical knowledge, the curriculum includes supervised practice sessions with case discussions and role-playing exercises, internship placements in hospitals, private clinics, and community counselling centres, and training in teletherapy and digital mental health interventions. Students also undertake a research project on counselling and psychotherapy effectiveness. The emphasis on practical application ensures that graduates are job-ready with real clinical exposure.

Ans. The official eligibility criterion requires an MA or MSc degree in Psychology. Candidates from non-psychology backgrounds (e.g., social work, education, nursing) are generally not eligible for this specific programme. However, working professionals who hold an MA/MSc in Psychology and are currently employed in mental health, HR, education, or related fields are welcome to apply, as the programme is designed to benefit both fresh graduates and professionals seeking to formalise or upgrade their counselling skills. The 1-year duration and relatively affordable fee make it accessible for working professionals.

Ans. Graduates of the PG Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy can work as Psychotherapists, Counsellors in mental health clinics and hospitals, School/College Counsellors, Corporate Mental Health Advisors and Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) Counsellors, Wellness Coaches, Community Mental Health Workers, and Teletherapy Practitioners. The growing awareness of mental health in India, combined with the expansion of corporate wellness programmes and school counselling mandates, has significantly increased demand for trained counsellors. Graduates can also use this diploma as a stepping stone towards pursuing M.Phil. (Clinical Psychology) or a PhD in Psychology.

Ans. Yes, the programme includes internship opportunities as a structured component of the curriculum. Students are placed in hospitals, private clinics, and community counselling centres for supervised practical training. SGT University has its own hospital and medical facilities on campus, which provides students with direct access to clinical settings for their internship. The university's School of Behavioural Sciences also has tie-ups with external mental health organisations and NGOs for internship placements. The internship component is supervised by experienced faculty and clinical supervisors, ensuring that students receive quality mentorship during their practical training.