If you are looking to develop a career in the voluntary and mental health sectors this introductory course is designed for you. The aim is to introduce you to some of the concepts and skills required to offer support through the use of listening and responding skills. You will learn about the counselling relationship by exploring different models of counselling and learning how to apply the skills of active listening. 

This course aims to teach you skills to support people in a listening role, and to develop your self-awareness but is not a therapy or self-help group. Your learning will be based on non-directive counselling although mention is made of other counselling models to broaden your understanding. The emphasis is on practical skills and group exercises with a certain amount of written work necessary to achieve certification from SQA. You will participate in listening exercises working with peers to develop your counselling skills in a highly participative practical way.

• The Counselling Relationship
• Counselling Skills
• Listening and Responding Skills
• Non-directive Counselling

• Personal statement indicating why you want to do the course
• Basic reading and writing skills are required

• IELTS 5.5

• You will be continually assessed through written and practical assignments. 

• NC Counselling Skills 
• HNC in Counselling 
• COSCA Certificate in Counselling

• This course can lead to enhanced work opportunities within the voluntary and mental health sectors 

• 1 evening per week OR 1 daytime class per week (for 12 weeks). Please note, there is also an outreach option for this course.