Level 1- Islamic Approaches To Psychology and Psychotherapy Certificate

This intensive 5-day programme introduces the philosophy, methodology, and application of psychology and counselling from an Islamic perspective.

Designed primarily for mental health professionals, the course is also highly beneficial for those working in community and support roles, including teachers, imams, and social workers, as well as anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the Islamic view of human nature and wellbeing.

Why Islamic Psychology?

Contemporary mental health models often overlook the central role of faith, identity, and spirituality in a person’s life.

Islamic psychology offers a holistic framework that understands the human being as more than just the mind, integrating the spiritual, psychological, and emotional dimensions of the self.

Drawing on the work of Professor Abdur Rasjid Skinner and the foundations laid by the late Malik Badri (R.A), this course explores how Islamic principles can be meaningfully integrated with clinical practice to provide care that is both effective and spiritually grounded.

Understanding the 'Self' in Islam

A core focus of the programme is the classical Islamic model of the self, rooted in the tradition of Imam al-Ghazali.

This model explores the dynamic relationship between:

  • Qalb (heart) – the spiritual centre
  • Ruh (soul) – the divine essence
  • Aql (intellect) – the faculty of reasoning
  • Nafs (self/ego) – the lower and higher drives

Understanding the balance between these elements is essential to promoting psychological and spiritual wellbeing.

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Our Approach

This course integrates:

  • Islamic theological and spiritual frameworks
  • Contemporary psychological understanding
  • Cultural awareness and sensitivity
  • Apply trauma frameworks through an Islamic lens
  • Work with family dynamics using Qur’anic narratives

Participants will explore how mental health difficulties can be understood and addressed through an Islamic lens, including how faith-based reframing can support healing in ways that resonate more deeply with Muslim clients.

The role of culture is also considered, recognising its impact on mental health, identity, and help-seeking behaviours.

Applied Learning

The programme is grounded in practice, using:

  • Real-life case studies
  • Clinical scenarios
  • Reflective and experiential learning

You will explore how Islamic psychological principles can be applied within therapeutic settings, including:

  • The therapeutic relationship in Islam
  • The role and state of the therapist
  • Supporting individuals in reconnecting with their fitrah (natural disposition)

Course Objectives

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to:

  • Distinguish between culturally specific and universal aspects of Western psychology
  • Understand and articulate Islamic models of the self
  • Describe the therapeutic relationship from an Islamic perspective
  • Identify the aims and objectives of Islamic counselling and psychotherapy
  • Explore Islamic perspectives on mental health and diagnosis
  • Evaluate the applicability of Western therapeutic approaches for Muslim clients
  • Integrate Islamic concepts (nafs, qalb, ruh) into therapy
  • Understand clinical applications in trauma, family systems

Certification

Participants who successfully complete the programme will receive:

Certificate in Counselling from an Islamic Theoretical Orientation,
awarded by Ihsaan Therapeutic Services in partnership with the International Association of Islamic Psychology (IAIP).

Programme details 2026

Registration Form

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