GED1826

Counselling: theory and practice

Dr J F Pallant

12 points - 4 hours per week - Full-year subject - Clayton - Prerequisites: An approved four-year sequence in psychology - Quota 10

Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to perform a basic initial counselling interview of about one hour in duration, including effective use of the skills covered in Egan's The skilled helper; be able to describe and apply at least five relevant major therapies to typical counselling clinical cases, with particular reference to the effectiveness of these therapies to specific client presenting issues; and be able to critically evaluate the scientific standing of various therapies according to accepted research and professional criteria.

Synopsis This subject introduces the theoretical and practical aspects of counselling and related clinical techniques which are designed to help people change their behaviour. Emphasis will be upon students developing a critical working knowledge of the relevant theories and skills of counselling and how these may be put into action for treatment of a variety of concerns within a range of typical counselling situations. This approach will focus upon students becoming evaluative scientist-practitioners who can match their intervention strategies to a range of client problems. Some of the topics to be covered will include assessment, evaluation of counselling and psychotherapy, ethical considerations and practical skills. Students are required to attend class meetings, take part in practical work and complete assignments and reading.

Assessment Counselling skills evaluation: 50% - Written examination (2 hours): 25% - Seminar: 25%

Prescribed texts

Corey G Theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy Brooks-Cole, 1996
Egan G The skilled helper: A problem management approach to helping Brooks-Cole, 1998
Egan G Exercises in helping skills: A manual to accompany the skilled helper Brooks-Cole, 1998

Recommended texts

Corey G Student manual for theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy Brooks-Cole, 1996

Back to the 1999 Education Handbook