Details for SSC517 Applied Counselling Theories

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.

Quick Stats

• Currently offered by Alphacrucis: Yes
• Course code: SSC517
• Credit points: 10

Subject Coordinator

Prerequisite

Unit Content

Outcomes

1. Describe and critically reflect on the development and foundations of counselling theories, including historical perspectives and current evidence-based models;
2. Critically reflect on theories and models of counselling from a personal worldview and professional practice perspectives;
3. Compare and contrast several counselling methodologies and describe how these may be integrated;
4. Develop the skills to select and apply appropriate counselling approaches to a range of therapeutic contexts.

Subject Content

• Introduction 1: Theoretical timeline, Historical Background The development of Counselling Theory, with focus on historical background and current evidence-based theories  
• Introduction 2: Theoretical Approaches Psychodynamic Therapy, Psychoanalytic, Analytic Therapy, Modern Psychanalysis
• Approaches to Integrative Therapy Person-Centred approaches
• Modern Psychoanalysis & Current Psychodynamic Approaches Behavioural Models
• Transactional Analysis & Rational Emotive Therapy Integrating Approaches to Counselling and Christian Worldview
• Introduction 1: Theoretical timeline, Historical Background Evidence based models: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT)
• Introduction 2: Theoretical Approaches Other Current Models: Solution Focused Therapy, Choice (Reality) Therapy, Narrative therapy, Gestalt Therapy
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Brief Therapies & Interventions: Motivational Interviewing, Solution Focused Therapy, Suicide Intervention Therapy  
• Positive Psychology Helping Complex Clients
• Solution Focused Therapy / Motivational Interviewing Counsellor Self Care
• Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) 
• Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) 
• Narrative Therapy / Choice Therapy 

This course may be offered in the following formats

• Onsite (face-to-face)
• Online (e-Learning)
• Intensives

Please consult your course prospectus or enquire about how and when this course will be offered next at Alphacrucis University College.

Assessment Methods

• Preparation Paper and Critical Reflection (30%)
• Minor Essay (30%)
• Minor Essay (30%)
• Counselling Role Play (40%)

Prescribed Text

• Corey, G. (2023). Theory and practice of counseling and psychotherapy (11th ed.). Melbourne, VIC: Cengage.

Please consult your instructor prior to purchasing any texts.