Counselling Skills

- An Introduction and Overview (3 day)

This introductory workshop is designed for those new to counselling or those wishing to enhance their general helping skills. The workshop provides an opportunity to acquire basic communication skills and practical strategies to help people. Using a problem-solving model, participants will learn how to work with clients to identify issues and implement plans and activities to address areas of concern. This is an interactive training where participants will work through scenarios, activities and role plays that will help them enhance their helping skills.

Workshop Outline

Day 1

Counselling Overview
Who is Involved in Counselling
Qualities of a Counsellor
Reviewing our Beliefs
Common Missteps in Counselling
Beginning with Presence
Listening Habits Quiz
Three Parts of Communication
Nonverbal Communication Skills
Road Blocks to Communication
Counselling Communication Skills
Considering Context and Difference
Qualities of a Helper
Review our Beliefs
Beginning with Yourself
Communication Quiz

Day 2

Overview of Counselling Process
Establishing an Ethical Structure
Human Needs
Expanding the Story
Finding Client Strengths and Resources
Solution Focused Approach
Client Readiness for Change
Problem Solving
Problem Identification

Day 3

Finding Solutions for the Problems
Barriers to Receiving Support
Keeping Logs and Journals
Tips for Self-Care
Positive Self-Talk
Personal Care Plan
Working with Clients who are “Stuck”
Responding to Criticism
If a Client becomes Hostile
Caring for the Caregiver
Self Assessment

Target Audience

This is an introductory level workshop intended for caregivers without previous clinical training who wish to develop basic counseling skills.

Method of Instruction

Lecture, personal reflection, role play, small group discussion and video