Counselling Skills and Theory

Synopsis

Trusted author Margaret Hough updates this bestselling resource that will provide you with the clearest introduction to the major approaches in counselling.

Easy to read, clear and concise, this full colour updated edition will take you from learning to application with a variety of group tasks and case studies to explore and evaluate.

- Explore the new extended sections on Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, Neuroscience, and Cultural Diversity and Counselling to highlight new approaches, developments and research.
- Consolidate learning with new student exercises - now over 70!
- Translate theory into practice with new case studies, including some that will illustrate the problems clients experienced during Covid-19, with special reference to emotional and psychological effects of lockdown
- Understand the ways in which neuroscience helps us understand the beneficial effects of counselling and psychotherapy with the regular references throughout the book.

Summary

Chapter 1: The Nature of Counselling

* Defines counselling as a supportive and collaborative process between client and counsellor.
* Explores the roles of client and counsellor, including understanding the client's perspective and providing empathy and respect.
* Example: A counsellor supports a client who is struggling with anxiety by creating a safe and non-judgmental space for them to express their feelings.

Chapter 2: The Counselling Process

* Outlines the stages of the counselling process, from initial contact to termination.
* Discusses the importance of building rapport, establishing goals, and creating a supportive environment.
* Example: A counsellor establishes a comfortable rapport with a client by listening actively and reflecting on their thoughts and feelings.

Chapter 3: Counselling Skills

* Examines the core skills used by councellors, including empathy, reflection, and questioning.
* Explains the benefits of each skill and provides examples of how they can be used effectively.
* Example: A counsellor uses empathy to understand a client's feelings and reflect those feelings back to them, helping the client to gain greater insight.

Chapter 4: Theoretical Approaches to Counselling

* Explores different counselling approaches, such as person-centred, cognitive-behavioural, and psychodynamic.
* Outlines the key principles and techniques of each approach.
* Example: A counsellor uses cognitive-behavioural therapy to help a client identify and change negative thought patterns that contribute to their anxiety.

Chapter 5: Ethical and Professional Issues in Counselling

* Examines the ethical guidelines and legal responsibilities of councellors.
* Discusses the importance of confidentiality, informed consent, and maintaining appropriate boundaries.
* Example: A counsellor explains to a client the confidentiality of their sessions and how their personal information will be protected.

Chapter 6: Counselling in Specific Settings

* Explores the unique challenges and considerations involved in counselling in different settings, such as schools, hospitals, and private practice.
* Discusses the need for cultural sensitivity and an understanding of the specific needs of clients in each setting.
* Example: A counsellor provides support to students in a school setting, helping them navigate academic stress and peer pressure.

Chapter 7: Evaluating Counselling

* Examines the importance of evaluating counselling outcomes.
* Discusses different methods of evaluation, such as client feedback, outcome measures, and follow-up studies.
* Example: A counsellor gathers client feedback through anonymous surveys to assess the effectiveness of their sessions and identify areas for improvement.