The Psychology of Counselling Theories module explores with students the main approaches of counselling theory that inform both the counselling process and its application to a wide range of issues. The main theoretical approaches within this module include Humanistic, Psychodynamic and Cognitive-Behavioural, alongside this Integrative and Eclectic theories and practice will be considered. The module will progress, building on the counselling process, through considering professional and ethical issues relating to the practice of counselling psychology and the application of counselling to different groups including family therapy, group therapy, grief therapy, cross cultural and gender issues in counselling.

There will be ten sessions of taught material and one revision / review session. The VLE (Blackboard) exercises/activities are designed to both strengthen student's knowledge base and to illustrate the topics introduced in lectures. This is accomplished through the use of video material, exercises and case studies, group discussion and presentation. Additional reading, both general and as directed by the course tutor is a necessary requirement to help develop and broaden knowledge with the purpose of accomplishing both the work within the workbook and assessed work.

100% Coursework

3000 word essay to demonstrate both a critical understanding and awareness of differing approaches and wider issues concerning the theory and practice of counselling psychology (Learning outcomes 1-4).

This will ask students to:
1. Provide evidence of a thorough understanding and wider reading in terms of the module content
2. Demonstrate their knowledge and understanding through applying a critical and evaluative approach to thinking about the issues that are raised
3. Demonstrate their ability to construct and communicate a focused and appropriate argument and to consider the alternative explanations and to engage with some of the fundamental theoretical issues.

Formative learning
- Engaging in exercises / activities on Blackboard
- Students will also be invited to submit an essay plan for tutor feedback

Video, Workbook, Counselling Textbook & Journals, Access to Library
Blackboard access via the internet

Be registered on any Psychology award

Prochaska J.O., Norcross, J.C. (2007). Systems of Psychotherapy: A Transtheoretical Analysis (6th Edn). Thomson Brooks Cole
McLeod J (2003). An Introduction to Counselling (3rd Edn). Open University Press.
Milner & Palmer (2001). Counselling - The BACP Counselling Reader, Volume 2. Sage Publications
Palmer, S, Wolfe R. (Eds) (2000). Integrative & Eclectic counselling & psychotherapy. Sage Publications