This unit (APP3015) of study includes an overview of the principles and practices of counselling from a range of paradigms. Specifically, psychodynamic, existential, person-centred, Gestalt, behavioural, cognitive behavioural, postmodern (narrative and solution-focus), and systemic therapies are explored in relation to their historical background, theoretical premises, therapeutic techniques and strengths and limitations in clinical practice. Students are also challenged to explore their own understanding of therapeutic change and to interface this personal perspective with the models presented.

Unit details

Location:
Study level:
Undergraduate
Credit points:
12
Unit code:
APP3015

Prerequisites

APP2013 - Psychology 2A

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:
  1. Contextualise the application of the main counselling theoretical paradigms to a range of psychological problems;  
  2. Conceptually map therapeutic techniques aligned to particular psychotherapies and identify common skills; and  
  3. Critique counselling theories/therapies in relationship to key assumptions, goals, strengths and limitations.  

Assessment

Assessment type Description Grade
Case Study Structured Case Study (800 words) 30%
Essay Comparative essay on two counselling theories/ therapies (2000 words) 50%
Test MCQ Online Test (1 hour) 20%

Required reading

Theory and practice of counselling and psychotherapy 10th ed.
Corey, G., (2016)
Belmont: Brooks/Cole

Where to next?

As part of a course

This unit is studied as part of the following courses. Refer to the course page for information on how to apply for the course.

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