This module focuses on the development of knowledge and critical understanding in a variety of counselling approaches. Students will explore the theoretical concepts and philosophies of various counselling models. This could include Transactional Analysis, Logotherapy and Gestalt amongst others. You will critically reflect on your own personal philosophy of counselling theory and how you apply it.

A written 2,500-word essay that requires students to critically reflect on their personal philosophy of counselling as well as critically evaluate models of counselling theory and how they are applied (LO 1, LO2, LO3).

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. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of the variety of approaches in the field of counselling and psychotherapy.
Knowledge and understanding

2. Critically compare concepts of alternative counselling models with the core models and consider more recent developments within the core models.
Learning
Enquiry

3. Critically reflect on and discuss own personal philosophy of counselling theory and how it might be applied.
Communication

Library
IT resources including PowerPoints
VLE - SOALR
Core texts

Cooper, M. (2012). The Existential Counselling Primer: a Concise, Accessible and Comprehensive Introduction. PCCS Books.

Joyce, P. & Sills, C. (2014). Skills in Gestalt Counselling & Psychotherapy. (3rd ED.). Sage Publications.

Stuart, I. & Joines, V. (2012). A New Introduction to Transactional Analysis. Lifespace Publishing.

This module focuses on the development of knowledge and critical understanding in a variety of counselling approaches. Students will explore the theoretical concepts and philosophies of various counselling models. This could include Transactional Analysis, Logotherapy and Gestalt amongst others. You will critically reflect on your own personal philosophy of counselling theory and how you apply it.