Counselling Skills – Introduction

COURSE OVERVIEW

Thank you for your interest in the Counselling Skills course.

The main aim of our Introduction to Counselling Skills course is to help you develop a basic knowledge and understanding of counselling skills in preparation for further learning or training. The course is not designed as a counselling training programme in its own right, but participants will increase their self-awareness and develop their ability as effective listeners through active participation and regular attendance.

COURSE CONTENT

Unit 1: Using counselling skills

Learn to identify core counselling skills alongside understanding how these are practised in a counselling relationship. Gain an understanding of how to establish an effective working relationship and will consider the boundaries which need to be respected in this sensitive role.

Unit 2: Introduction to counselling skills theories

This unit will introduce key elements of the main theoretical approaches in counselling, psychodynamics, person-centred therapy and cognitive behavioural therapy. There are key practical differences between these theories and you will hone your skills in understanding the significant importance of counselling theory.

Unit 3: Diversity and ethics in the use of counselling skills

This unit covers the concepts of diversity and ethics. Gain an understanding of anti-discriminatory practice, discover the key aspects of an ethical framework, and discover ways to address diversity in counselling skills practice.

Unit 4: Counselling skills and personal development

This unit encourages development of self-understanding, identifying values and beliefs and the ability to reflect on personal qualities and skills.

The course will involve tutor input, online learning resources, small group and whole group discussions and experiential skills practice. This introductory course is suitable for anyone who is interested in improving their active listening skills and wants to improve their communication and understanding of others at work, or with family and friends. It is a useful way of finding out something about counselling for those who are considering further training or a career change.

If you think you are in need of counselling yourself, this is probably not the time to be considering a counselling course. If you are experiencing emotional difficulties please contact your doctor for advice, or visit NHS Talking Therapies Services :: Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust