This is pretty well written and I have made just a few alterations in red.
I have, during my academic studies, undertaken courses such as Clinical Psychology and Counselling Psychology. In Clinical Psychology I gained an extensive understanding of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) including the diagnostic criteria for schizophrenia, depression, eating disorders, anxiety disorders and personality disorders. In Counselling Psychology I gained in-depth knowledge of Cognitive Behavioural, Humanistic, Transactional, Psychodynamic and Gestalt therapy. In these modules I also learnt how theory and research inform today’s therapeutic practice and appreciate that research investigation are crucial (this is not clear, do you just mean research is crucial?) in order to improve future practices.
• Awareness of diversity issues through attendance of relevant training
As a cast member with the *** Cinema I received training in diversity issues.(More detail on the training? Ongoing...one day...one week...?) Among other topics this included how to treat people with disabilities and people from ethnic minorities. In addition, I have gained an understanding of current legislation on disability, racism, sexism and ageism through studying Business Psychology as an optional module in my third year.
SKILLS and ABILITIES
• Ability to apply existing psychological knowledge to a mental health context
When volunteering for *** I applied my academic knowledge of Autistic Spectrum Disorder while working with my befriendee. In particular I applied my knowledge of Behaviourism to enhance my befriendee’s social skills. Moreover, the training provided by *** included psychological knowledge which could be applied in the befriending situation, such as information about Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA).
• Good communication skills (written)
• AND High standard of report writing
Throughout my degree I developed strong report and essay writing skills. These skills resulted in excellent marks in Advanced Research Methods and a First in my dissertation (78%). My overall First Class degree was largely also awarded because I performed excellently in exams, where I was writing under time-pressure.