Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills

Previous student feedback: "I am now more focused on really listening." "I'm really keen to take the next step." "I have learned a lot about myself." This is a 30 hour part time course to give initial experience of counselling skills for those who wish to help others in a voluntary or employed situation. It leads to an award with CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) The course consists of the following units: - use initial counselling skills safely - establish the helping interaction - communicate understanding of the other person's concerns - focus on the other person's agenda - use initial counselling skills with self awareness - use initial counselling skills within the helping interaction - use study skills within the learning process Students have to demonstrate evidence of competence for each unit. This is done by attending the class sessions, undertaking skills practice, writing a learning review and completing a short written assignment which is assess externally. In addition to the 30 hours classroom time, learners should allow 30 hours additional study time over the life of the course.

The course will not teach you how to be a counsellor but may help you to decide whether you wish to progress further and train as one. Although the course will encourage you to draw on your own experiences it is not designed to be counselling therapy. Candidate registration fees are payable at enrolment.

No previous training or experience in counselling is required but a genuine interest in developing counselling skills to help others is essential. A minimum of level 1 literacy is desirable.

All students will receive individual guidance during the course to help them plan their progression. The course can lead to further counselling courses such as the Certificate in Counselling Skills and beyond.