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Why choose this course?
The Introduction to Counselling Skills course is designed to provide a foundation in counselling skills for those considering further study or professional training. While it is not a formal counsellor training programme, it offers valuable opportunities to develop self-awareness, active listening skills, and an understanding of effective helping relationships through regular attendance and participation.
Participants will learn to identify and apply core counselling skills, gaining insight into how these are used within a counselling relationship. The course explores how to establish effective working relationships while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries within this sensitive area of practice.
The programme introduces the main theoretical approaches to counselling, including:
- Psychodynamic Theory
- Person-Centred Therapy
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
Learners will examine the key principles and practical differences between these approaches, developing an appreciation of the importance of counselling theory in informing practice.
The course also explores the concepts of diversity, inclusion, and ethics, helping participants understand anti-discriminatory practice, ethical frameworks, and ways to work sensitively with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
A strong emphasis is placed on personal development and self-reflection, enabling learners to examine their own values, beliefs, personal qualities, and interpersonal skills. This reflective approach supports both personal growth and the development of effective counselling skills.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:
- Recognise and demonstrate core counselling skills.
- Understand the importance of establishing effective helping relationships.
- Identify appropriate professional boundaries within a counselling context.
- Describe the key principles of psychodynamic, person-centred, and CBT approaches.
- Understand the role of ethics and anti-discriminatory practice in counselling.
- Reflect on their own values, beliefs, strengths, and areas for development.
- Enhance their listening and communication skills through active participation and practice.
Class times: 18:00-21:00
Further information
Those interested in developing counselling skills to use in paid or voluntary work or for personal development and self-awareness. Students must have a good level of spoken and written English and be aged 19+
- Develop a basic understanding of counselling skills as a foundation for further study or training.
- Improve self-awareness, active listening, and communication skills through participation and practice.
- Learn to identify and use core counselling skills within a helping relationship.
- Understand how to establish effective working relationships and maintain appropriate boundaries.
- Explore the key principles of Psychodynamic, Person-Centred, and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) approaches.
- Recognise the practical differences between major counselling theories and their importance in practice.
- Gain an understanding of ethics and professional standards in counselling.
- Learn about diversity, inclusion, and anti-discriminatory practice.
- Reflect on personal values, beliefs, qualities, and skills that influence interactions with others.
- Build confidence in supporting others through effective and ethical communication.
Your tutor will advise on future courses.
Continuous classroom assessment.
Any recommended background reading or course textbooks are not provided by the college. Your tutor will advise you on any books or other learning resources that may be required to support your studies.