ED5862 - Foundations of Counselling Theory

Available to Master of Education, Master of Guidance and Counselling, Graduate Certificate of Career Development and Graduate Certificate of Education students.

This subject introduces students to diverse theoretical perspectives of counselling practice. Students will develop a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of diverse counselling theory including theories of career development. Students will further develop the ability to critically reflect and respond to theories underpinning counselling. A comprehensive understanding of counselling theory forms the basis of quality counselling practice. Students will become familiar with the ethical practices set by the counselling profession. Students will be expected to apply counselling theories within specific contexts and environmental settings. Students will also be expected to begin integrating these theories into their own personal theory of counselling.

Learning Outcomes

• describe the theoretical origins and concepts underpinning current approaches of counselling and their application to the guidance and counselling field, including career development. This includes relating this foundational knowledge to the tropics, sustainability, and Indigenous, rural and regional wellbeing;
• review and apply ethical principles as outlined in the Professional Standards for Career Development Practitioners of the Career Industry Council of Australia and the Professional Standards of the Australian Counselling Association and their Code of Ethics and Practice, and the Singapore Association for Counselling and their Code of Ethics;
• apply problem-solving skills and develop solutions to a range of guidance and counselling contexts;
• evaluate counselling therapies and begin to formulate an integrated personal theory of counselling;
• communicate, evaluate and justify complex ideas and professional judgements to both specialist and non- specialist stakeholders.

Subject Assessment

• Written > Case study analysis - (40%) - Individual
• Written > Reflection/reflective task 1 - (15%) - Individual
• Performance/Practice/Product > Role play - (45%) - Individual.

Note: Minor variations might occur due to the continuous Subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.