Programme

Counselling Theory
Students will be introduced to the main concepts and principles of basic counselling skills including active listening, reflection and paraphrasing. They will be introduced to the Humanistic Integrative approach based upon the Five Relationship Model (Petruska Clarkson). Students will examine Humanistic theories from the Person-Centred approach, Transactional Analysis and Gestalt, Transpersonal Psychology and Psychodynamic theory in relation to concepts of Transference and Counter-transference. Students will be introduced to the main concepts and principles of counselling, developing key skills including active listening, reflection and paraphrasing.

The course will look at specific issues such as:

• Transcultural awareness

• Sexuality

• Childhood abuse

• Alcohol and substance misuse

• The psychology of shame

• Attachment Theory

• Bereavement and loss

Counselling Practice
This intensive learning process includes the practice of enhanced listening skills, observation and verbal and non-verbal communication. Through the experiential use of counselling practice in pairs and triads, trainees will gain an ability to develop the building and maintaining of a therapeutic relationship. This will include how to negotiate contracts with clients in clinical practice, establishing and maintaining boundaries, and giving and receiving effective feedback. Experiential work and practicedevelops theoretical understanding and application

Group Process
Group process is entirely experiential and the focus is on the personal and emotional development of trainees. The experience of the large group process develops trainees’ capacity for self-reflection and awareness. Students develop the ability to demonstrate ownership of their own words andfeelings, and to differentiate those of others. This ability is fundamental to our work as counsellors.

Assessment
Assessment is continuous throughout the year and includes elements of self, peer and tutor evaluation. Students are required to successfully complete three written assignments throughout the year (2,000-2,500 words each).

Students are expected to attend every session and a minimum attendance of 80% is required for the Certificate to be issued.

Entry Requirements
Training is open to those with a first degree or relevant previous training, for example in health care or social work, and those without formal qualification but equivalent suitable life experience. In addition, applicants must demonstrate personal maturity and the ability to cope with the emotional, intellectual and time demands of the course.

​​Contact time
120 hours