Introduction to Counselling Skills Course
Dates of Course
Saturday 17th and 24th September & 1st October
9.30am – 4.00pm
Cost £150.00
What are counselling skills?
Counselling skills involves the ability to listen to another person and to hear their ‘story’ and what they are trying to say, from their point of view. Normally when we talk to someone, even when we are trying to understand what they are saying, we are speaking from our point of view. This ability is counter-intuitive and goes against what we normally do and is a skill that has to be learnt.
The core idea here is that if you can facilitate the person in telling their ‘story’, or what is troubling them, then they will be in a much better position to make a decision about what to do. Usually when someone is distressed and troubled, clarity is precisely what is lacking and providing this space can be very helpful. When using counselling skills it is not about looking for a solution or giving advice.
Who is the course for?
This is an introductory course which is open to anyone who is interested in learning how to use counselling skills and also interested in learning about themselves. These are skills that can be used at work, or in your own personal live, and it would prepare you for taking a one year ‘Foundation Course in Counselling’.
What you will learn?
On this course you will learn the basic counselling skills, such as how to accurately reflect back what the person is saying, summarising, and asking open questions. But you will also understand and practice the skill of ‘active listening’. This is where you learn to be with the person, and yet at the same time are able to step back, rather than simply responding as you normally would. This involves what are sometimes called the ‘core conditions. Here you will develop the ability to be with the person without introducing your own agenda, to accept on their terms what they are saying, and at the same time to be genuine yourself.
Each session:
These will be made up of three parts: theory, practice and self development – a structure which reflects a central idea in counselling that you need to understand the concepts, develop your counselling skills, and to become more self-aware.
For further details and how to apply contact Sue Hirons on 01752 213131 or email: [email protected]