Introductory description

This module provides students with a pertinent range of Theories, Approaches and an understanding of how to apply them appropriately to a practice setting. These theories will be matched and refined, in relation to practical issues current in Counselling practice. The range of theories will both underpin relational principles and guide all practice and the developing nature of the integrative therapeutic relationship. A model of intervention, closely linked to case formulation, will foster a direct link between theory and application.

This module is delivered through a mixture of learning and teaching methods, including didactic presentations, small group work and discussion, and case studies/scenarios. Topical, relative issues recounted in the media are utilised to enable students to put the theoretical concepts in context. Formative and summative assessments aim to facilitate students’ ability to begin to develop a critical understanding of key concepts and issues; enabling them to develop further autonomous learning, problem solving, research skills and to work effectively with others. Formative feedback will be provided for essay plans and case study material. Summative assessments include a written assignment and a case study in which students consider ethical issues, good practice and processes.
John Heron’s 6 category Intervention Analysis is central to this module and will underpin students’ interventions with clients, alongside key issues from practice. A continuum of interventions will enable the student to accurately engage with clients and fully understand the range of options available to them in relation to their interventions. This module develops employability skills in students through building a current awareness of key professional and ethical issues for students working within multidisciplinary teams and within various organisational settings.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Formal input in relation to key theories PCA, Psychodynamic and CBT approaches.
Formal input in relation to Heron’s 6 category intervention analysis.
Formal input in relation to Egan’s skilled helper model.
Experiential learning re Counselling Themes via the ELG.
Ethical Framework and understanding ethical interventions.
Case study work in relation to theory.
Diversity and Cultural awareness.
Safeguarding and Suicidal protocols.
Appropriate theory and application in relation to Mental Health.

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Describe accurately and apply Roger’s Core Conditions to the counselling relationship and process.
• Describe accurately and apply Heron’s 6 Category model and the directive/non directive spectrum to the counselling relationship and process.
• Describe accurately and compare Egan’s skilled helper model as an influence on the two main models above.
• Accurately apply an assimilation of the fundamental principles of Heron's and Rogers' models as the beginning of an integrative and relational approach to practice.

Indicative reading list

Reading lists can be found in Talis

Subject specific skills

• Identification of key theory in integrative counselling
• Formative application of theory to counselling practice
• Basic formulation of therapeutic approach
• Reflection on counselling theory and its relevance to practice

Transferable skills

• the capacity to acquire new knowledge
• the ability to apply new knowledge to a helping context
• the capacity to identify and accurately describe theoretical ideas
• the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing - including the ability to present information well and to self-reflect in written communications where appropriate
• the use of IT skills, a capacity to use word processing facilities and a capacity to access library information
• the ability to use virtual learning environments
• the ability to identify appropriate sources of information and to extract relevant information to suit specific contexts