Core
12 Subjects
120 Credit Points
Foundations in Social Research, Writing, and Methods (former RES401 Postgraduate Research and Writing) SSC400
Understanding research methodologies is fundamental for any social science or counselling professional. This unit will equip you with the skills to critically analyse and synthesise academic literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and master academic writing and research conventions. By exploring a range of research methods and ethical considerations, you will be prepared to design and conduct studies that make meaningful contributions to your field.
Faith and Purpose (former THE401 Christian Worldview) ACA401
Discover the foundations of faith and how it relates to one's worldview and purpose. Students will explore the Christian story from Scripture and express ideas of their own faith, examine how faith shapes views on the meaning and purpose of life, the value of humanity and ideas of human flourishing. Expand your perspective in this core subject and understand the significance of faith in all areas of life.
Psychology of Emotion and Wellbeing SSC410
Understanding the psychology of emotion and wellbeing is crucial for enhancing personal and professional relationships. This core unit introduces the concepts of emotional development and the social and cultural factors that influence emotions. Students will learn to apply theoretical approaches to understand emotions and interact empathetically with clients. By developing these skills, students are better prepared to support emotional wellbeing in various contexts.
Interpersonal Communication Skills (former SSC412 Counselling Practice I) SSC413
Enhance your ability to communicate effectively in professional people-helping settings. This subject will equip you with learning foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, you will develop your counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. This unit is designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.
Human Lifespan Development SSC510
Understanding human development throughout the lifespan is important for providing targeted support and interventions. This subject offers a comprehensive examination of the developmental stages from conception to death, integrating multicultural and critical perspectives. Students will explore major developmental milestones, reflect on personal growth, and develop strategies to assist others in navigating developmental life transitions.
Foundations of Professional Practice (former SSC514 Counselling Practice II) SSC521
This subject helps to prepare you to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques in. With an emphasis on applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, you'll learn how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress. This unit aligns with professional practice standards, offering practical, experiential training, that includes role-plays, to continue the development of your interpersonal communication skills.
Mental Health SSC516
Gaining insight into mental health conditions is pivotal for providing effective support and intervention. Students in this subject will learn to recognise symptoms, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. They will develop skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion, while fostering a hopeful and supportive environment.
Applied Counselling Theories SSC517
Gaining a deep understanding of various counselling theories is essential for effective therapeutic practice. This subject provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different models, reflect on their personal and professional implications, and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.
Professional Accountability SSC519
Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.
Ethical and Professional Issues (former SSC520 Professional Considerations) SSC522
Understanding ethical and legal frameworks is vital for anyone entering the people helping profession. This subject helps students to understand the ethical principles and legal requirements within their field, in order to confidently manage complex ethical dilemmas. You will learn to apply ethical decision-making models, prioritise self-care, and appreciate the importance of ongoing professional development.
Culturally and Socially Diverse Practice SSC535
This subject equips students to navigate and address the complexities of social anc cultural diversity in professional settings. It aims to deepen their understanding of the impact of diversity on people and practice and prepares students to effectively assess and intervene across diverse contexts. By fostering advanced self-awareness and reflective practices, students will be better positioned to practice ethically and competently in a culturally and socially diverse contexts.
Professional Practice – Counselling SSC500
Gaining practical experience in a professional setting is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. This unit consists of a 100-hour placement in a relevant organisation, allowing students to apply and refine key competencies in counselling, chaplaincy, or another people-helping organisation. Through professional supervision and self-reflective practice, students enhance their understanding of professional responsibilities and ethical practices, fostering professional growth.
Specialisation
3 Subjects
30 Credit Points
Professional Practice Specialisation
10 credit points Counselling Theory and Therapies such as: (choose 1 of the following subjects)
Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology SSC531
Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.
Cognitive Behavioural Theories and Therapies SSC536
Gaining proficiency in cognitive behavioural theories and therapies through this subject equips you to address mental health challenges effectively. It focuses on developing a deep understanding of CBT principles and their practical application across various issues, ensuring a thorough grasp of therapeutic techniques. This unit emphasises building strong client-therapist relationships and refining your ability to assess and conceptualise treatment plans.
20 credit points SSC 400 level or above (choose 2 of the following subjects)
Professional Supervision SSC563
Through this subject, students will engage in practical, experiential learning with up to 40 hours of supervision sessions, alongside dedicated 'supervision on supervision' reviews to refine your practice. This unit also emphasises professional and ethical considerations, helping you to manage both individual and group supervision contexts with confidence.
Chaplaincy and Pastoral Care SSC534
Through this subject, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the role and impact of chaplains and pastoral carers in various settings. They will develop essential skills in interpersonal communication and the provision of care across diverse sociocultural and spiritual contexts. The unit emphasises professional, spiritual, and ethical practice, ensuring students are well-prepared to offer support and guidance in both everyday and crisis situations.
Culturally and Socially Diverse Practice SSC535
This subject equips students to navigate and address the complexities of social anc cultural diversity in professional settings. It aims to deepen their understanding of the impact of diversity on people and practice and prepares students to effectively assess and intervene across diverse contexts. By fostering advanced self-awareness and reflective practices, students will be better positioned to practice ethically and competently in a culturally and socially diverse contexts.
Cognitive Behavioural Theories and Therapies SSC536
Gaining proficiency in cognitive behavioural theories and therapies through this subject equips you to address mental health challenges effectively. It focuses on developing a deep understanding of CBT principles and their practical application across various issues, ensuring a thorough grasp of therapeutic techniques. This unit emphasises building strong client-therapist relationships and refining your ability to assess and conceptualise treatment plans.
Working with Addictions SSC537
Gaining insight into addictions in this subject is key for professionals seeking to understand and address various types of addictive behaviours effectively. You will examine theories of addiction and their impacts on individuals, families, and communities. The unit also covers a comprehensive range of intervention strategies and emphasises the importance of ongoing professional development and self-care, equipping you to provide informed and effective support.
Working with Relationships SSC538
Enhancing your ability to navigate relationship dynamics is important for students aiming to specialise in relationship counselling. In this subject, you will delve into the theories underpinning relationship challenges and systems, developing skills in assessment, treatment planning, and interventions. The unit includes practical role-plays to hone your counselling techniques and also focuses on creating resources to support clients effectively.
Working with Children and Young People SSC539
The knowlegde and expertise gained in this subject is invaluable for those seeking to specialise in working with children and young people. It will equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the theoretical approaches and practical skills necessary for effective evidence based responses to issue unique to children and adolescents. Students will explore social, cultural, familial, and ethical factors crucial to understanding the needs of children and adolescents, and will be euipped to address those specific challenges with an holistic approach.
Engaging Families SSC540
This subject offers a deep dive into family dynamics, blending various theories and perspectives to understand the impact on individuals. It addresses counselling from both systemic and individualistic viewpoints, employing role plays as a key method to highlight challenges and effective interventions. Additionally, it encourages students to reflect on their own family experiences and how they may influence their professional practice.
Trauma Informed Practice II SSC548
Building on Trauma Informed Practice I, this subject is important for professionals aiming to provide effective support to trauma survivors. This unit focuses on assessing and supporting individuals, families, and communities, using trauma-informed principles to guide interventions. You will also explore community resources, develop strategies for client-centred care, and learn to manage professional wellbeing.
Trauma Informed Counselling I SSC550
This unit prepares you to address trauma with an understanding of the multifaceted nature of trauma on the individual and community. Students will explore trauma symptoms, treatment and recovery; including insights from neuroscience and post-traumatic growth literature. You will think carefully through assessment of physiological, social and psychological impacts of trauma to inform treatment plans ensuring best practice.
Trauma Informed Counselling II SSC551
Building on Trauma Informed Counselling I, this subject deepens your understanding of trauma-informed therapies, focusing on both theoretical and practical applications. It encourages ongoing professional development and equips you to design effective, evidence-based treatment plans. Students will gain proficiency in assessment and working with evidenced based trauma modalities such as Trauma-Informed Acceptance and Committment Therapy.
Supervision of People Helpers SSC560
Gaining practical experience in a professional setting is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. This unit consists of a 40-hour professional supervision placement that provides opportunity to develop the practitioner to work within the learned supervisory models. This subject provides an opportunity to enhance practice skills and examine professional and ethical issues under the guidance of a professional supervisor.
Professional Accountability for Supervisors SSC561
Maintaining professional accountability is essential for professional supervisors within professional supervision. This subject is a co-requisite subject with the professional supervision placement unit (SSC560), offering fortnightly group supervision classes to support your placement. This unit develops integration of theoretical learning with real-life practice experiences. It oversees the alignment of practice with industry practice standards through reflexive practice development and ethical considerations.
Professional Supervision in Practice SSC562
This subject focuses on the development of skills and practice for the provision of professional supervision. You will learn to apply your developing knowledge of theories and Professional Supervision for both individual and group supervision relevant to a range of contexts including clinical and pastoral settings. Additionally, this subject fosters a commitment to ongoing professional development and self-care, essential for maintaining high standards in supervisory roles.
Foundations of Professional Practice SSC521
This subject helps to prepare you to work effectively with clients by learning advanced counselling micro-skills and techniques in. With an emphasis on applying micro-skills and evidence-based methods in counselling contexts, you'll learn how to respond to complex needs such as anxiety and stress. This unit aligns with professional practice standards, offering practical, experiential training, that includes role-plays, to continue the development of your interpersonal communication skills.
Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology SSC531
Gaining proficiency in evidenced supported strengths based modalities is important in modern psychological practice. This unit introduces Solution Focused Therapy (SFT) and Positive Psychology, focusing on the methodology of these strengths based approaches and developing skills to implement these across various settings from individual to organisational applications. Students will have the opportunity to develop many specific skills in addition to increasing their ability to integrate techniques from aligned modalities to enhance client engagement and outcomes.
Ethical and Professional Issues SSC522
Understanding ethical and legal frameworks is vital for anyone entering the people helping profession. This subject helps students to understand the ethical principles and legal requirements within their field, in order to confidently manage complex ethical dilemmas. You will learn to apply ethical decision-making models, prioritise self-care, and appreciate the importance of ongoing professional development.
Foundations in Social Research, Writing, and Methods SSC400
Understanding research methodologies is fundamental for any social science or counselling professional. This unit will equip you with the skills to critically analyse and synthesise academic literature, construct evidence-based arguments, and master academic writing and research conventions. By exploring a range of research methods and ethical considerations, you will be prepared to design and conduct studies that make meaningful contributions to your field.
Professional Accountability SSC519
Professional accountability is crucial in developing ethical and effective practice as a counsellor or people helper. This unit is delivered in the same semester as students undertake their supervised field placements and offers weekly group supervision. Students will receive weekly support to help build their assessment and intervention skills, whilst working with actual client’s. The subject meets PACFA's experiential training requirements, focusing on real-world application through case conferences and peer review whilst preparing you to handle professional challenges ethically and effectively, integrating critical reflection and a Christian worldview.
Working with Trauma SSC518
Having a basic understanding of trauma and its effects is essential for any professional working within the community. This unit gives an introduction to understanding what constitutes trauma, along a continuum from acute to chronic presentations. Additionally, you will learn about self-care to manage the effects of trauma on the people helper, aiding in longevity and efficacy in this challenging field.
Applied Counselling Theories SSC517
Gaining a deep understanding of various counselling theories is essential for effective therapeutic practice. This subject provides a comprehensive overview of historical and modern counselling methodologies, from Freudian psychoanalysis to contemporary approaches such as Solution Focused Therapy and Positive Psychology. Students will learn how to critically evaluate different models, reflect on their personal and professional implications, and apply them across diverse therapeutic contexts.
Mental Health SSC516
Gaining insight into mental health conditions is pivotal for providing effective support and intervention. Students in this subject will learn to recognise symptoms, deliver appropriate assistance, and understand the role of the community in supporting mental wellbeing. They will develop skills in treating individuals with empathy, respect, and compassion, while fostering a hopeful and supportive environment.
Group and Community Work SSC515
Exploring group and community dynamics in this unit offers valuable insights into influencing change and fostering individual growth within a community context. You will engage with principles of community leadership and group processes, applying them practically in class-based settings. This subject provides a robust framework for ethical and professional practice in community work, enhancing your ability to critically reflect on and improve your methods.
Social Identity in Australia SSC513
Understanding Australian society through the lens of sociology equips students with valuable insights into how social and cultural factors shape identity. This subject teaches how to critically analyse these dynamics and their implications, both locally and globally. By studying various social issues and interventions, students develop skills to engage effectively in public and policy domains, enhancing their understanding of societal structures and cultural influences.
Grief and Loss SSC512
Supporting those experiencing grief and loss is crucial for effective counselling. This unit equips students with specialised skills to support individuals navigating these challenging experiences. Students will learn to distinguish between different types of grief and develop tailored intervention strategies, enhancing their ability to empathise and provide essential support within a self-care framework.
Principles of Psychology SSC511
Understanding the foundational principles of psychology is beneficial for comprehending human behaviour and mental processes. This subject offers a thorough introduction to the diverse models and theories of modern psychology, encouraging you to consider their impact on your personal worldview. You will develop advanced critical thinking skills, compare various psychological theories, and critically integrate these concepts into your understanding of human nature.
Human Lifespan Development SSC510
Understanding human development throughout the lifespan is important for providing targeted support and interventions. This subject offers a comprehensive examination of the developmental stages from conception to death, integrating multicultural and critical perspectives. Students will explore major developmental milestones, reflect on personal growth, and develop strategies to assist others in navigating developmental life transitions.
Professional Practice – Counselling SSC500
Gaining practical experience in a professional setting is essential for bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application. This unit consists of a 100-hour placement in a relevant organisation, allowing students to apply and refine key competencies in counselling, chaplaincy, or another people-helping organisation. Through professional supervision and self-reflective practice, students enhance their understanding of professional responsibilities and ethical practices, fostering professional growth.
Introduction to Professional Supervision SSC461
Enhancing supervision skills across diverse professional contexts is helpful for supervising people-helpers effectively. This unit delves into the theories and models of professional supervision, emphasising the development of supervisory relationships and the integration of sociocultural and ethical considerations. Students will engage in reflexive practice as supervisors, gaining insights that foster their capabilities in clinical, community, pastoral, and various industry settings.
Trauma Informed Practice I SSC447
Gaining a deep understanding of trauma and its pervasive impacts is beneficial for supporting those affected. This unit equips students with the knowledge to develop and critique trauma-informed care principles and apply evidence-based interventions. By exploring cultural and social factors, students learn to approach trauma with sensitivity and insight, preparing them to support recovery and growth within varied contexts.
Interpersonal Communication Skills SSC413
Enhance your ability to communicate effectively in professional people-helping settings. This subject will equip you with learning foundational interpersonal communication skills. Through practical exercises, you will develop your counselling micro-skills including conflict management responses, within a culturally sensitive framework. This unit is designed to meet PACFA and ACA training requirements.
Case Management SSC411
Gaining expertise in case management is essential for a successful career in human services. This unit offers a comprehensive overview of the sector and the theoretical approaches guiding practice. You'll learn the nuances of case management, including its role in client empowerment and the diverse functions of case managers and counsellors. Through reflective practice, you'll develop a deeper understanding of effective strategies and frameworks.
Psychology of Emotion and Wellbeing SSC410
Understanding the psychology of emotion and wellbeing is crucial for enhancing personal and professional relationships. This core unit introduces the concepts of emotional development and the social and cultural factors that influence emotions. Students will learn to apply theoretical approaches to understand emotions and interact empathetically with clients. By developing these skills, students are better prepared to support emotional wellbeing in various contexts.
Capstone
1 Subject
10 Credit Points
Independent Guided Research RES500
This subject allows students to construct a research question in their chosen major subject area, select a research method to address the question, explain the methodology employed in the project and execute the method to complete their research.
