EDF4605 · Introduction to counselling psychology

Overview

This unit introduces you to a range of intervention models and theories used in counselling psychology and the assumptions on which they are based. It examines the foundational principles, key concepts and practical applications of various therapeutic approaches, including psychodynamic therapy, behaviour therapy, person centred therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy and family or systems therapy. You will critically analyse how these models inform clinical practice and their effectiveness in different contexts. Through interactive discussions and practice exercises, you will be encouraged to reflect on your own theories of change in relation to the various models. Personal reflection will play a key role in helping you evaluate the strengths and limitations of the different therapies, assess their alignment with your values and beliefs, and refine your emerging counselling style.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. describe the origins of, and relevant current developments in, counselling psychology
2. develop the effective use of basic counselling skills
3. describe relevant major psychotherapies
4. understand the issues concerning efficacy and effectiveness of psychotherapies with diverse client groups.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per teaching period comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Usually, you can expect to engage with: • 24 hours of scheduled learning delivered on campus via weekly/regular directed learning activities; and • the remaining hours to be allocated towards self-directed/independent study Scheduled learning activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.