Syllabus

The Foundation in Counselling (Level 3 equivalent) course furthers our understanding and knowledge of ourselves and counselling concepts, theory and skills.

Heartwood’s theoretical approach presented on the course is both Integrative and Holistic. We will look at integrating models, techniques, theories and a range of modalities that suit the individual client. Whilst working on developing relationship skills which will aid therapeutic work.

We will cover a range of approaches including Gestalt Therapy, Person Centred Therapy, CBT and Third Wave CBT.

We will work with the full perception of the client, their world from their eyes, adapting our methods to accommodate our client’s needs and working with the way a client’s problems may present as:

• Thoughts – fixed beliefs or negative ideas, old messages (introjects).
• Emotions – grief, anger, sadness, regret, guilt, shame.
• Physical – panic attacks, insomnia, eating disorders, self-harm.
• Spiritual – hopes, dreams, aspirations, purpose.

This course further develops counselling, communication and listening skills through the following client centred practices; effective questioning and working at an appropriate pace, managing silence, active listening and minimal encouragement prompts, paraphrasing and summarising, attentiveness and rapport building, empathetic listening, checking for understanding and focusing.

Content

• Drama Triangle
• Self-awareness development – experiential exercises
• Therapeutic skills and interventions
• Techniques to explore client issues
• Create a safe space for counselling – setting clear boundaries
• Personal & professional conduct and creating a therapy contract
• How people gain support
• Holding emotional space
• Deepening congruence and becoming authentic in relationships
• Exploring challenging emotions

Assessment

• A minimum of 85% attendance on tuition days
• Completion of learning journals for each taught session
• Completion of course assignments
• Demonstration of practical skills throughout
• Active participation in experiential aspects of the training