EDF6501

Counselling psychology: theories and practice ( 12 points, SCA Band 1, 0.250 EFTSL)

Leader: Dr J Simmonds

Offered:
Clayton First semester 2006 (Day)

Synopsis: In this unit, core research-based psychological counselling skills and therapeutic approaches are addressed and practised. Topics include models of helping, diversity-sensitive counselling, case management and diagnostic issues, and major and innovative therapies.

Objectives: Upon successful completion of this unit, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge and application of the relevant psychological counselling microskills and be able to integrate them to conduct initial counselling interviews; be able to describe and apply sound practice principles concerning the physical counselling setting, the therapeutic relationship and professional boundaries, methods of assessment, planning, intervention, record keeping, and evaluation of therapy, and be able to critically evaluate the scientific standing of various therapies according to accepted research and professional criteria.

Assessment: Critical evaluation and presentation (1500 words, 15 minutes) 25%, transcript and annotation of an initial counselling session (equivalent to 3500 words - 35%), clinical development journal including clinical reading summaries, professional resources compilation, and clinical skills assessments: (equivalent to 4000 words - 40%)

Contact Hours: 3 hours per week

Off-campus attendance requirements: Off-campus students must attend a one-week Residential school

Prerequisites: Completion of an APS accredited major sequence in psychology