MSc Dissertation

MSc Dissertation

As part of the MSc training, students will learn about the value of research, understand its’ real-life applications and be supported to develop research skills for effectiveness in practice. They will develop an understanding of different approaches to psychotherapy research, including how research contributes to the development of knowledge and critical analysis on a subject related to psychotherapy.

During year 3, MSc students undertake the Research Module, which supports them to develop their own personal Research Proposal. By engaging in individual and group work exercises, students are supported to identify and solidify their Research question, write their literature review and submit their proposal. This Research Proposal is 3,500 words and will form the basis of students’ Research Ethics submission. The TPI research faculty supports students in the development of their Research Proposal.

During year 4, students learn about the different methodologies, data collection, analysis and importantly how to interpret the data in line with the conventions of a Master’s Dissertation. Students will rework their Year 3 Research Proposal into a Research Ethics Committee Application Form and, following approval, will undertake and submit a 20,000 words dissertation, while engaging in regular supervision and attending to the advice and suggestions of their supervisor.

MSc Dissertation Titles

Every year, MSc students research a range of different topics. Here are some of the dissertation titles from the class of 2024.

Research Dissertation (2024)
‘The Attitudes of Psychotherapists to Psychedelics and Psychedelic-assisted Psychotherapy: A Quantitative Analysis’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘What Sustains Counsellors Working with Third Level Students? An Analysis of Counsellors’ Motivations in Providing Counselling/Psychotherapy to Students at Third Level’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘The Experiences of a Smart Recover Group in How the Programme Helps Participants Cope with Substance Dependencies’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘Qualitative Investigation in Client-Centred Psychotherapists Recognition of, and Recovery Approaches for Individuals Presenting with Addiction Issues, with a Specific Review of Motivational Interviewing as a Therapeutic Tool: An Irish context’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘The Phenomenon of Financial Uncertainty as Experienced by Psychotherapists Working in Private Practice in Ireland’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘Transferences Between Two Worlds: Experiences of Irish Psychotherapists Working with South American Clients’
Research Dissertation (2024)
A Qualitative Exploration of the Inclusion of Dreamwork with Primary Caregivers in attendance of a Psychoanalytically Informed Caregiver-infant Attachment Support Group”
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘A Qualitative Exploration of a Therapist’s Lived Experience of Significant Loss and Its’ Effect on the Therapeutic Setting’
Research Dissertation (2024)
‘A Qualitative Exploration of Therapists’ Lived Experience of Personal Bereavement with regards to Well-being and Clinical Practice’