On this module you will gain an introduction to core counselling skills such as active listening and gain a better understanding of the nature of counselling and the therapeutic relationship. You will be provided with opportunities to practice some of the core skills within small groups and develop basic counselling skills. This module is underpinned by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy’s Ethical Framework, with a strong emphasis on personal development which we will explore and apply throughout the course. We will also spend some time focusing on diversity and difference and exploring the different approaches to counselling.

Personal Development Essay (Final assessment)

Summative Assessment:
This 1,500 word reflective essay will include: The ability to¿discuss how the module has impacted your personal development. An awareness of personal values and how these may impact the self and others. The ability to evaluate how knowledge and understanding of core counselling skills has developed throughout the course. (LO 1, 2, 3)

This assessment will ask students to:
Use their personal development journal to support reflection on their experiences during the course with specific emphasis on their development as a counsellor.


Minimum of 75% attendance on the module (0% Pass/Fail) (LO 4)

All elements of assessment must be passed in order to pass the module

Formative Assessment:
Discussion of ethical and professional issues and application to real life examples in small and large groups. (LO 3, 4)
Skills practice, case studies and regular feedback sessions. (LO 1, 4)
Reflective group and journal writing. (LO 2, 3)

On this module students can expect to engage in 32 hours of scheduled teaching and learning activity (e.g., lectures, workshops, assessment preparation). Some sessions will be delivered through live (face to face) online platforms in order to develop digital counselling skills. Students will be provided with independent guided activities which will involve independent reading, assessment preparation, personal reflection and journal writing.
This module aims to build ethical awareness and personal and professional development in counselling. Throughout the module we will include discussions and experiential exercises working in small seminar and larger groups. The interactive lectures will include tutor led presentations and facilitate discussions of each topic. Students will be expected to undertake extra reading, both general and directed by the tutors. This is necessary to help develop and broaden knowledge with the purpose of accomplishing the assessed work and to encourage self-directed enquiry and learning. Reflective practice is encouraged and facilitated by a reflective group and completing a personal development journal.

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of rationale for using core counselling skills.
Knowledge and Understanding

Engage effectively in reflective process and demonstrate an ability to evaluate how personal thoughts, feelings and beliefs affect the use of counselling skills.
Reflection

Communicate an understanding and awareness of a range of factors influencing the counselling process in a diversity of settings in which counselling is practiced (i.e. groups, families, culture, gender).
Analysis
Communication

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of ethical issues and potential professional dilemmas in a counselling context with particular reference to the BACP ethical framework.
Application
Problem Solving

Blackboard VLE

Library access to relevant textbooks, journals, ebooks

Internet access to relevant websites and online databases.

Break out rooms for triad group work.

BACP (2018) Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy. British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy
Dykes, F., Postings, T., & Kopp, B., (2017). Counselling Skills and Studies. 2nd ed. Sage

Sanders, P., (2011) First Steps in Counselling. 4th ed. PCCS Books.

Lago , C. &Thompson, J. (1996) Race, Culture & Counselling. London: SAGE

This module will introduce you the basic skills used in beginning and maintaining a counselling relationship. You will have the opportunity to cultivate an understanding of the importance of an ethical approach in the counselling room as well as the basics of person-centred theory. We will also help you cultivate an ability to reflect on your experiences and practice through engaging with personal development.