Unit 1842: Counselling Practicum

1. Introduction to Counselling Practicum

• Purpose and goals of the practicum
• Expectations and responsibilities of the practicum student
• Learning outcomes and professional development opportunities

2. Ethical Considerations in Counselling Practicum

• Overview of ethical principles (confidentiality, autonomy, non-maleficence, beneficence, justice)
• Confidentiality and its limits in practicum settings
• Boundaries and dual relationships
• Informed consent: components and communication
• Professional conduct and accountability

3. Developing Counselling Skills

• Active listening techniques
• Demonstrating empathy and unconditional positive regard
• Reflection and summarization skills
• Effective questioning techniques (open vs. closed questions)
• Building and maintaining rapport with clients

4. Case Conceptualization and Treatment Planning

• Assessing client needs and presenting issues
• Introduction to theoretical frameworks (e.g., CBT, Person-Centered, Psychodynamic)
• Formulating case conceptualizations based on client data
• Developing individualized, goal-oriented treatment plans
• Integrating evidence-based practices

5. Supervision and Feedback in Counselling Practicum

• Purpose and types of supervision
• Role of the supervisor and supervisee responsibilities
• Receiving and integrating constructive feedback
• Reflective practice and self-evaluation
• Setting professional development goals

6. Diversity and Cultural Competence in Counselling

• Understanding cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Recognizing and addressing personal biases
• Social justice and advocacy in counselling
• Working effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds
• Strategies for enhancing cultural competence

7. Crisis Intervention and Risk Assessment

• Identifying crisis situations and acute distress
• Conducting risk assessments (suicide, harm to others)
• Crisis intervention strategies and communication
• Referral processes and collaboration with other professionals
• Documentation and follow-up procedures

8. Self-Care and Burnout Prevention

• Importance of self-care in counselling practice
• Stress management techniques
• Recognizing signs of burnout and compassion fatigue
• Establishing professional boundaries
• Developing a personal self-care plan