Foundation Certificate in Counselling

Duration: 1 year, details of timetable available September 2006
Qualification: Foundation Certificate in Counselling
Cost: €1000
Closing Date of Application: 1 September 2006

Counselling skills have a direct relevance for everybody whose occupation involves people work. The development of counseling skills or improvement of existing skills can contribute to improving interpersonal effectiveness and enhancing overall performance. This in turn can foster improved outcome and increase satisfaction for the recipient of these skills. Counselling skills develop from the combination of selected application of counselling theory to practical situations and increased understanding and awareness of the self. This integration of theory, practice and personal development is the central philosophy of the course. The understanding that comes from the wider application of counselling theory to one's life and self can also facilitate personal growth and enhance the quality of personal relationships.

Objectives:

> To gain a basic knowledge of theoretical models of counselling.
> To gain an appreciation of how to apply skills in a practical setting.
> Identify areas of growth in student?s own personal development.
> Equip the student with a sufficient foundation to make an informed choice about future counselling training.

Syllabus:

Students will cover four modules:

Modules

> Counselling theory
> Counselling Skills Application
> Applied Psychology
> Applied Sociological Aspects of Development
> Personal Development

Counselling Theory - gives an overview of models of counselling with special reference to their application to the student?s personal growth and development
Counselling Skill Applications - covering the application of skills to practical settings in an experiential context.
Applied Psychology and Applied Sociological Aspects of Development - covering concepts from both disciplines relevant to counselling
Personal Development - encompassing a comprehensive method of self-exploration to facilitate personal growth in self-awareness, in relation to self and others.

Who can apply?

The course is intended for individuals whose work is ?people orientated?, based in the statutory, non-statutory, voluntary and private sectors. It is designed for those whose work setting or other type of setting allows them the opportunity to apply counseling skills in their existing role. In the statutory sector this could include teachers, probation officers, nurses, doctors, social workers etc.

In the non-statutory and voluntary sector this could include youth workers, drug workers etc. and in the private sector this could include human resource staff, welfare officers etc.

The course can also serve as a suitable foundation for those who are considering embarking on professional counseling training to make an informed choice re their future development. It will also be of interest to those who have an interest in the area of personal growth and the whole area of counselling.

Please Note:   All applications should be accompanied by a letter detailing your reasons for wishing to participate on this course.  Applicants will be called for interview.