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Counselling Studies
Higher Diploma in Science
Course Details
Course Code | LY_VCOUN_G |
---|---|
Level | 8 |
Duration | 1.5 years |
Credits | 60 |
Method of Delivery | Blended |
Campus Locations | Donegal – Letterkenny |
Mode of Delivery | Part Time |
Course Overview
There are many teachers, particularly career guidance counsellors, HSE staff and allied healthcare staff who, as part of their job, require counselling skills. This course provides a pathway for such professionals who would like to pursue counselling as a secondary career choice.
The course has been developed as a Level 8 programme with a minimum entry qualification of an Honours degree or equivalent as many of the potential applicants would hold an honour’s degree. Also many of those interested in undertaking this programme of study would already be in employment which would or could have a counselling component thus it is envisaged this counselling qualification would support them in their current roles. Others will undoubtedly seek this qualification as a means to pursuing a full qualification as a Counsellor thus the link to the Ulster University programme in Counselling.
The programme would be suitable for those who are seeking to make a career change but have some experience (voluntary or otherwise) in a helping capacity e.g. in human resources, law, social services, nursing or education. For those who are not seeking a career change then the course will enhance their current professional practice by providing them with an insight into the theory and practice of counselling as well as the management of high intensity distress.
Course Details
Year 1
Semester | Module Details | Credits | Mandatory / Elective |
---|---|---|---|
1 |
Counselling Skills and TheoryThis module provides the foundations for further counselling skill and knowledge development by familiarising students with various theoretical approaches to establishing therapeutic interpersonal relationships in practice settings. Particular emphasis will be focussed on a person-centred approach and Egan's eclectic framework. Learning Outcomes 1. Evaluate the humanistic, cognitive behavioural and psychodynamic perspectives in counselling and discuss their differences and commonalities. |
10 | Mandatory |
1 |
Cognitive Behavioural Approaches: Concepts and SkillsThis module aims to provide students with an understanding of the theory, principles and skills of cognitive behavioural therapies. Contemporary developments and research in the cognitive tradition will be studied including third wave therapies such as mindfulness-based approaches. Emphasis will be given to application of skills and techniques of these approaches in healthcare, educational or organisational contexts. Psychosocial and medical models of mental health discourse will be contrasted. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse the theoretical foundations of cognitive behavioural approaches ; |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Humanistic & Existential Approaches in CounsellingThis module aims to develop students under standing of the humanistic existential approaches in counselling. A pproaches from this tradition including G estalt , Transactional Analysis, person centred and existential approaches to counselling will be introduc ed and students will explore the primary skills and principles underpinning them . Key consideration s of a trauma informed approach will be explained as well as existential challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the climate emergency. Learning Outcomes 1. Discuss the theoretical foundations and philosophy o f humanistic existential counselling approaches ; |
10 | Mandatory |
2 |
Supporting Clients through ChangeThis module aims to develop students' understanding of two constructivist approaches commonly used in practice; solution focused and motivational interviewing. Practical skills relating to these approaches and relevant to professional practice will be highlighted and the module will integrate experiential processes to support learning. Utilisation of these approaches in the service of client autonomy and anti-discriminatory practice is a cornerstone of this module. The fundamental issue of behaviour change in the context of pandemic and climate change is also a theme. Learning Outcomes 1. Assess the theoretical foundations and evidence base of motivational interviewing ; |
10 | Mandatory |
3 |
Body Centred CounsellingThis module aims to introduce students to the use of the body (soma) in counselling. This approach offers insights into the implementation of a trauma informed approach starting from the premise that trauma is held in the nervous system's survival responses . Students will gain an understanding of how to attune to their own and clients ' somatic experience and how this understanding can then be utilised to support a client's process and recovery . This module will include experiential sessions and students ' learning will be achieved through their own engagement in somatic experiencing . Epigenetics and transgenerational trauma will also be explored. Learning Outcomes 1. Assess the theoretical foundations and evidence base for body centred counselling; |
10 | Mandatory |
3 |
Interpersonal and Intrapersonal RelationshipsThis module aims to provide students with an understanding of psychodynamic approaches and the centrality of relationships throughout the lifespan. Fundamental concepts and debate within contemporary psychodynamic and attachment theory will also be addressed. This module will give students an opportunity to explore how to promote equality and inclusion in professional practice. Learning Outcomes 1. Analyse key issues in the study of life course development; |
10 | Mandatory |
Recommended Study Hours per week
Examination and Assessment
On-Campus Attendance Requirement
Download a prospectus
Entry Requirements
Careers
Graduate careers typically include roles in crisis centers, health and social care services, schools and universities, as social care workers, and within youth and community organizations.
Further Information
Who Should Apply?
This programme is suitable for teachers, particularly career guidance counsellors, HSE staff and allied healthcare staff who, as part of their job, require counselling skills. This course provides a pathway for such professionals who would like to pursue counselling as a secondary career choice. Many of those interested in undertaking this programme would already be in employment which would or could have a counselling component thus it is envisaged this counselling qualification would support them in their current roles.
Contact Information
Department of Early Education & Social Studies
Department Administration: +353 (0)74 9186309 / +353(0)74 9186310
Head of Department: Dr Nigel McKelvey
E: EESS.Donegal@atu.ie
Early Education & Social Studies