This course will provide students with the knowledge and skills fundamental to basic counselling. Students will be encouraged to begin to develop their own model of practice through discussion and critically analyzing models of helping. A primary focus is on students learning and practicing basic communication skills, including attending, active listening, empathy, and probing. Students will explore the characteristics of counselling, helping, and healing, and examine the components of effective counselling. Emphasis will be placed on developing counsellor self-awareness, including personal values, attitudes, beliefs, strengths, and challenges. Learners will also consider ethical standards and practices, personal resources required for counselling, and self-care strategies. The course will support students in identifying and evaluating different models of helping and understanding how to establish a safe environment within the counselling relationship.
