Authorised by Academic Registrar, April 1996
Objectives Upon successful completion of this subject, students should be able to demonstrate a knowledge and understanding of the biopsychosocial model of health and wellness; a number of theoretical approaches to counselling; basic counselling techniques and behaviours which promote client change; and recent research developments in counselling psychology and related areas of health psychology. Students should have developed basic interviewing skills that enable the development of a good working relationship and open communication with a client; and also a positive attitude to their own personal growth and development.
Synopsis This subject will provide students with an introduction to, and an overview of, counselling and health psychology within a biopsychosocial model of health and wellness, and will require the completion of practical exercises and activities, some of which may be scheduled outside of normal class times. Prominent theoretical approaches to counselling and health psychology will be considered, and some basic skills training provided. Aspects of the counselling and health psychologist's work will be discussed, with an emphasis upon health and wellness issues. Students will be expected to examine and review recent research developments in counselling psychology and related areas of health psychology and to complete exercises and activities related to their own health and well-being. While this subject will provide a theoretical introduction to the field, basic training in the specific skills which are necessary for effective counselling will be limited, and it should not be viewed as providing sufficient training to practise as a counselling psychologist. Those wishing to do so will need to undertake further subjects such as GED1826 in the Master of Psychology (Counselling). GED1826 and GED1833 both build on the foundation material offered in this subject.
Assessment Journal documenting progress throughout the subject and including a number of specific exercises: 30% + Research paper (3000 words): 30% + Examination: 40% + A hurdle requirement for eligibility for assessment is regular attendance and a high standard in practical exercises and activities + To pass this subject all components of the assessment must be completed to a satisfactory standard