Relationship and Couples Counselling (Level 3) Diploma

Module 1 : Introduction to course topic and reappraisal of counselling skills

• This module introduces the concept of relationship counselling, and reflects on previous knowledge, looking in detail at five theories which have been adopted as approaches in counselling. In this module the work of Freud, Rogers, Skinner, Ellis, Jung and Egan will be highlighted, and the corresponding counselling approaches examined.

Module 2 : The psychodynamic approach

• This module examines the psychodynamic approach and its usefulness in relationship and couples counselling. This approach may have special significance in the context of various attachments and potential issues that may arise. The process of change from Freud’s original theories to the more social and relationship based approaches of the psychodynamic therapies is identified and explained

Module 3 : The cognitive behavioural approach

• In this module, students gain understanding of the key concepts of the cognitive behavioural approach to counselling in the context of intimate relationships. Students also learn about conditioning and social cognitive theories. The module describes cognitive techniques and their applications and relevance to relationship and couples counselling. Students gain confidence in the ability to integrate such components with other counselling approaches.

Module 4 : The person-centred approach

• In the study of this module, students learn key elements of the person-centred approach to counselling. The hierarchy of needs is explained in relation to counselling. Person-centred techniques and their relevance and application to relationship and couples counselling are explored in detail.

Module 5 : Boundaries, ethics and defining the relationship

• This module focuses on key aims of counselling, and includes confidentiality and ethical conduct within the counselling role. Students have the opportunity of considering the integration of different counselling approaches suitable for client need. Boundaries or limitations of counselling are identified and defined. It also looks at what types of consent and responsibilities the counsellor has to seek. In addition, some historical background of the development of counselling in this context is described, together with the emergence of the therapeutic concepts in use today.

Module 6 : Exploring the problems

• This module examines the assessment of a clients’ needs, and how to consider building a collaborative relationship within the therapeutic environment. During this phase of counselling, the exploration and understanding of problems begin and the future effort, planning and facilitation necessary for successful resolution is established.

Module7 : Working through the problems

• Within this module communication habits are discussed, together with references and examples of various working models such as attachment, triangular relationships, splitting and projection.

Module 8 : Facilitating change

• This module addresses resolution of difficulties. This is the phase where change is facilitated via counselling strategies and techniques, together with the implementation of agreed programmes for homework, communicative exercises and maintenance.

Module 9 : Specific relationship problems; part 1

• Separation, divorce and problems of a sexual nature are discussed in this module. In addition, relevant counselling techniques, strategies and observations will be identified and described.

Module 10 : Specific relationship problems; part 2

• Career and workplace problems, violent relationships, and other related issues are discussed in this module. In addition, relevant counselling techniques, strategies and observations will be identified and explained.