On this module students 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. Students will be provided with opportunities to apply theory to practice through the use of core skills within small groups. 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:

A 2000-word Personal Development essay that utilises the reflective model provided by Schon (Reflection in Action on Action) that relates to the development of counselling skills especially in regard to reflexivity. (LO's 1, 3 and 4).

Personal Development Journal / Skills Log Discussion:

You will maintain a formative reflective journal throughout the module. One theme taken from the journal will be submitted in the form of a slide that can be in any format you wish to produce. This will be then delivered via a 1-to-1 discussion with a course tutor at the end of the semester. In addition, students must submit an appendix of evidence of four ‘skills practice feedback forms’ collated on separate weeks throughout the module. (weighted at 0%, to assess LO's 2 and 3).

Formative Assessments:

Opportunities will be provided for formative feedback such as discussion of ethical and professional issues, application to real life examples in small and large groups, skills practice, case studies and regular feedback sessions.

This module aims to build ethical awareness and personal and professional development in counselling. Students can expect to engage in learning experiences through interactive lectures / seminar sessions involving small and large group work. Students will be provided with independent guided activities which will involve independent reading, assessment preparation, personal reflection and journal writing. Completion of the independent work is necessary to help develop and broaden knowledge, and to encourage self-directed enquiry and learning. Reflective practice is encouraged and facilitated by a reflective group and completion of a personal development journal.

1. Demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of core counselling skills and how these work in practice.

Knowledge & Understanding

2. Translate core counselling theory into the effective use of skills in counselling.

Application & Problem Solving

3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the impact of the self in the therapeutic space, by moving from being reflective to being a reflexive practitioner.

Reflection Personal Development & Entrepreneurship

4. Communicate knowledge of ethical principles and put these into practice when demonstrating counselling skills.

Communication

Access to counselling and observation suites, audio–video recording equipment and associated technical support.

Sanders, P., Williams, P. J., Rogers, A. (2021). First Steps in Counselling: An Introductory Companion. (5th Ed). PCCS BOOKS.
This is the core text for the counselling undergraduate course and is the backbone of all topics integrated into the course. This is the most updated version available.

BACP (2018) Ethical Framework for Good Practice in Counselling and Psychotherapy. British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (update due 2026)
This is the Framework that we teach our students around ethical understanding and practice. It is the most updated version; however, a new update is due to be released some time in 2026.

Stafford, M. R., & Bond, T. (2020). Counselling skills in action (4th ed.). SAGE.
This book helps students understand the core counselling and psychotherapy theory they will need for effective therapeutic skills practice. This is the most updated version available

This module will introduce you to the application of theory to basic counselling skills used in the therapeutic 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 active listening. We will also help you cultivate an ability to reflect on your experiences and its impact on your practice through engaging with personal development.