Syllabus
Unit 1
Introduction
Definition, Nature and Goals of Counselling, Scope and relevance, Stages of Counselling, Characteristics of a counsellor, Ethics and legal aspects of counselling. Students will use online ethical case simulations (e.g., American Psychological Association ethics scenarios or Simple Practice free case exercises) to analyze counselor responsibilities. Basic familiarity with notetaking and client documentation using Google Docs / Notion templates will be practised to simulate case recording.
Unit 2
Theoretical Framework
Psychoanalytic theory, Humanistic theory, Behavioural theory, Cognitive theory. Short animated video explainers (e.g., YouTube Psychology channels or APA resources) will be used to visually demonstrate each theory for beginners. Use of concept-mapping tools such as Miro or MindMeister to visually connect counselling theories to case examples.
Unit 3
Counselling Skills
Core counselling skills – Carl Rogers ’ six core skills, Advanced skills – Paraphrasing, Probing, Summarising, and Confrontation; Micro skills and role plays, Building rapport and trust. Students will record mock counselling sessions using Zoom or mobile phones for self-review and peer feedback. AI-based transcription tools (e.g., Otter.ai or Whisper) will be used to transcribe sessions for analysing use of empathy, paraphrasing, and questioning.
Use Padlet or Google Classroom for reflective sharing and instructor feedback on role-plays.
Unit 4
Counselling Relationships
Theoretical counselling models – Carl Rogers, Traux, Carkhuff, Egan, Ivey. Principles of effective counselling relationships. Building trust and rapport with clients. Boundaries, ethics, and professional conduct. Client-counsellor communication skills. Handling transference and countertransference. Cultural sensitivity and diversity in counselling. Interactive counselling model visualisations through Canva or PowerPoint infographics. Students will use digital journals (e.g., Notion or Google Sheets) for reflective self-assessment of their skill growth and relationship-building competency over the semester.
Unit 5
Case Conceptualisation, Interpretation and Presentation
Students will present a counselling case study report. Understanding the internal dynamics of the presenting problem, the systematisation and organisation of the problem, and the assessment and interpretation of the client’s presenting problem. Suggestion of suitable intervention.
Text Books / References
Textbooks
- Egan, G. (2013). The skilled helper: A problem-management approach to helping. Brooks/Cole Publishers.
- Nelson-Jones, R. (2010). The theory and practice of counselling and therapy (5th ed.). Sage.
- Patterson, L. E., & Welfel, E. R. (2000). The counselling process (5th ed.). Wadsworth, Brooks/Cole Thomson Learning.
- Corey, G. (2016). Theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy (9th ed.). Thomson/Brooks/Cole.
- Seligman, L., & Reichenberg, L. W. (2014). Theories of counselling and psychotherapy: Systems, strategies, and skills.
Suggested Readings
- Cormier, S., Nurius, P. S., & Osborn, C. J. (2017). Interviewing and change strategies for helpers (8th ed.). Cengage Learning.
- Hill, C. E. (2014). Helping skills: Facilitating exploration, insight, and action (4th ed.). American Psychological Association
- McLeod, J. (2013). An introduction to counselling (5th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
Introduction
Counselling Psychology I is designed to provide psychology students with a comprehensive foundation in the principles and practices of counselling. The course offers an in-depth exploration of the psychological framework underpinning counselling, emphasising its significance in both personal and professional contexts. Students are introduced to the essential role of the counsellor as a facilitator of personal growth, a guide in resolving emotional and behavioural difficulties, and a supporter of individuals striving for improved mental health and well-being.The course covers key counselling theories and approaches, including humanistic, cognitive-behavioural, and psychodynamic perspectives, enabling students to appreciate the diversity and relevance of these foundations in contemporary practice. A central focus is placed on developing the therapeutic relationship, which is recognised as the cornerstone of effective counselling. Through guided instruction and practical exercises, students learn how to build rapport, foster trust, and communicate empathetically with clients.Skill development is an integral component of Counselling Psychology I. The curriculum is structured to cultivate essential counselling skills such as active listening, empathy, and clear communication. Students engage in simulated and real-life scenarios, allowing them to practice and refine these abilities in supportive learning environments. Ethical and professional standards in counselling are also addressed, equipping students with the knowledge to uphold best practices and maintain client confidentiality.By the conclusion of the course, students will be able to demonstrate familiarity with major counselling theories and techniques, apply basic skills effectively, and understand the practical applications of counselling in clinical, educational, and organisational settings. The course aims to prepare students for further study or entry into professional roles, providing a robust platform for lifelong learning and reflective practice in psychology.
