This module offers an introduction to the basic skills which are essential in initiating, maintaining, and concluding a counselling relationship with children and young people. You will be provided with the opportunity to practise these skills in a safe and facilitative environment. You will be introduced to various therapeutic interventions such as Sand-play therapy, Art therapy and Play therapy as well as a variety of other creative interventions. You will also develop skills in reflective practice.

Task 1 - You are required to submit a 1 x 30 min audio tape demonstrating Person-centred counselling skills and a transcript of 10 minutes of your tape (pass/fail) (LO1, LO2).

Task 2 - Along with this you are required to submit a 1,000 words critical evaluation of your own performance including reference to the 10-minute transcript of the audio tape (LO2, LO3).

Task 3 - You are required to submit a 1,000 words critical reflection of two or three therapeutic interventions suitable for a child or young person (LO4).
Choose a client issue or problem that a child or young person might bring to counselling. Identify two activities / interventions that would help a child with the problem that you have identified.
For each activity you have chosen, state your rationale for selecting that activity. Identify the ways it would help with the client's issue. Find evidence that supports or refutes the effectiveness of the activity you have chosen.

Learning strategies may include interactive lectures and skills practice sessions which consist of workshops, discussions, group-work, role-play, and individual tutorials. Reflection and reflective practice along with critical thinking will also be a key element of the programme in to facilitate professional learning. Independent study time includes researching, reading and reflection as well as assignment preparation.

1. Develop and demonstrate counselling skills and practice by utilising a theoretical base.
Knowledge
Understanding
Learning
2. Develop and demonstrate skills necessary to initiate, maintain and conclude a
counselling relationship with children and young people.
Application and Analysis
3. Demonstrate the ability to reflect on own performance and evaluate feedback.
Reflection and Problem Solving

4. Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of child centred therapeutic interventions.
Knowledge
Understanding

Library
IT resources including PowerPoints
VLE - SOALR
Core texts

Geldard, D., Geldard, K., & Yin Foo, R. (2013). Counselling Children: A Practical Introduction. Sage.
Geldard, D., & Geldard, K. (2015). Counselling Adolescents: The Proactive Approach for Young People. Sage.
Sherman, L. (2014). Skills in Counselling and Psychotherapy with Children and Young People. Sage.
Milner, J., & Bateman, J. (2011). Working with Children and Teenagers Using Solution Focused Approaches. Jessica Kingsley.
McLeod, J. (20011). Counselling Skills. Open University Press.

This module offers an introduction to the basic skills which are essential in initiating, maintaining, and concluding a counselling relationship with children and young people. You will be provided with the opportunity to practise these skills in a safe and facilitative environment. You will be introduced to various therapeutic interventions such as Sand-play therapy, Art therapy and Play therapy as well as a variety of other creative interventions. You will also develop skills in reflective practice.