BA (Hons) Counselling (Top Up)

This module examines ways of working with clients who present with a range of issues that affect their everyday living to such an extent that help is sought to address them. 

You will learn to recognise the signs and symptoms associated with mental distress and engage with a range of research-informed therapeutic responses to work with clients who present with challenges such as anxiety; depression; bereavement; loss; and suicidal ideation or intent. Particular consideration will be given to the use of supervision when working with this latter population, as well as legal and ethical implications; when to refer on to more specialist services; and local and national support services that are available.

In this module, you will explore the theory and practice of contemporary and emerging counselling approaches within the therapeutic landscape. This exploration will encompass a variety of innovative methods and perspectives. 

Additionally, the module will cover mindfulness, a practice that has been integrated into modern therapy to enhance self-awareness and emotional regulation. Through these diverse approaches, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of how contemporary and emerging methods can be applied to support clients effectively in their therapeutic journeys

The module provides an opportunity for you to build upon and apply the key intellectual, transferable and practical skills gained at Levels 4 and 5 of the programme in order to design an appropriate research project for your counselling dissertation. Throughout the module a series of lectures, seminars and workshops will further develop your research design skills in quantitative and qualitative research methods. In addition, you will develop a critical understanding of ethical challenges associated with carrying out counselling research leading to the development of a research project that adheres to the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions (2018) and Lincoln Bishop’s Research Ethics Committee standards.

This module aims to enhance your theoretical and practical understanding through the discussion of various counselling situations and dilemmas. 

You will delve into the challenges experienced by counsellors, such as ethical dilemmas. By examining these you will apply a diverse theoretical knowledge and participate in experiential exercises to gain insight into therapeutic practice in different contexts. You will be required to engage in group discussions as part of this module. 

This module offers an experiential learning environment within a therapeutic group setting. By integrating research and group work theory, you will cultivate a critical understanding of your current and 
ongoing group experiences, including your levels participation. 
The module also has a focus on group leadership, prompting you to evaluate various approaches and critically analyse the theory and practice of group facilitation. 
You will enhance your group facilitation skills by designing and facilitating a workshop for your peers. 

The aim of this module is to enable you to undertake a small-scale research project on a topic of your choice in the field of counselling practice. 
This dissertation module includes obtaining ethical approval, collecting data, analysing data, and reporting and discussing findings. The module will enable you to demonstrate ethical awareness when undertaking a research project; problem solving; project planning and organisational skills; reasoning and the development of an argument through familiarity with the literature; the ability to present data and information; use of analysis, synthesis and evaluation skills; and the ability to apply theory to practice.