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Diploma in Islamic Psychology

Dr Abdallah Rothman introduces the Diploma in Islamic Psychology - training course for mental health practitioners run by the Cambridge Muslim College

In this step, Dr Abdallah Rothman introduces the Diploma in Islamic Psychology, a training course for mental health practitioners run by the Cambridge Muslim College of which Dr Rothman is Principal.

Islamic Psychology and Psychotherapy are relatively new fields of practice and research. As such, there are limited opportunities for practitioners to access professional training courses on Islamic Psychology that are based on a robust evidence-base and a clear set of professional standards. The Diploma in Islamic Psychology contributes to the field of Muslim mental health by creating a pool of trained practitioners who can support the mental health of Muslims in ways that honour their beliefs and worldviews and makes use of familiar religious practices in their therapeutic approach.

The online Diploma in Islamic Psychology is a nine-month programme that teaches students about how human nature (psychology) is understood in Islamic theology, and from the Muslim worldview. Students learn how this knowledge can be translated into psychotherapy whilst maintaining high professional standards. Dr Rothman describes Islamic Psychology as a holistic bio-psycho-socio-spiritual, approach to mental health and wellbeing. After completing the course, students can train to become certified practitioners of the International Association of Islamic Psychology.

Students on the course come from a range of health and social care backgrounds (including psychotherapists, psychiatrists, and chaplains), and from countries all around the world. Dr Rothman suggests that the range of students who undertake the Diploma speaks to the growing popularity and enthusiasm for a spiritually integrated approach to Muslim mental health.

Signposting

The Diploma in Islamic Psychology.

The International Association of Islamic Psychology.

The charity ‘Inspirited Minds’ also run regular informative public webinars on Islamic approaches to mental health, as well as providing training. Take a look at their website for information on upcoming events and the services they offer.

Over to you

If you could ask Dr Rothman a question about the Diploma in Islamic Psychology, what would it be?

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Understanding Mental Health in Muslim Communities

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