Course at a glance
Relationship or couples counselling has gained much popularity over recent years, possibly due to the complexities and expectations of modern life and the rising divorce statistics. This course explores the basic phases or stages of relationship counselling, and examines separation, divorce, violent relationships and problems based on sexual difficulties. The relationship may be hetero- or homosexual.
Introduction
In addition to the study of various counselling approaches, a range of working models and theories specific to this field will be explained as well as the concepts of meta-communication, genograms and reflective practice. Specific attention will be given to psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural and person-centred approaches, which will give a fuller working knowledge and understanding of advanced counselling skills. In specialist counselling fields, these skills are necessary in order to be able to recognise and deal with the complex range of client needs, together with being able to understand the origins of these particular emotions and possible physiological factors.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Entry Requirement
Entry to this Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma requires that potential students have gained GCSE/IGCSE or equivalent qualifications and have, good English oral, reading and writing skills.
Advice on enrolment and guidance of prior learning (APL) can be obtained through out contact centre. The course is a rolling programme and can be started at any point in the year. Successful students can go on to Higher Education, including remaining as students at OLC to complete courses in our portfolio of higher awards.
All students must be aged 16 or over.
Assessment
The coursework is assessed through continuous assessment with no formal exit examinations.
Study Hours
Approximately: 200 hours of personal study time for the entire course is recommended. All of which is supported by the OLC Course Tutor, who we greatly encourage students to access support from throughout their course.
Quality Assurance
This course has been developed by the College’s professional team of tutors to meet the needs of sector based employers and employees. It is also part of the College’s validated level three Diplomas’, recognised internationally, as verified and moderated Centre for Interactive Education (CIE Global). Further details of our accreditations are provided on our website.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Course Length
1 Year.
Awarding Body
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Course Content
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 1: Introduction to course topic and reappraisal of counselling skills
This module introduces the concept of relationship counselling, and reflects on previous knowledge in counselling, looking in detail at five theories which have been adopted as approaches in modern counselling. In this module the work of Freud, Rogers, Skinner, Ellis, Jung and Egan will be highlighted, and the corresponding counselling approaches examined.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 2: The psychodynamic approach
This module examines the psychodynamic approach and its usefulness in relationship and couples counselling. This approach may have special significance in the context of various attachments and potential issues that may arise. The process of change and sexuality from Freud’s original theories to the more social and relationship based approaches of the psychodynamic therapies is identified and explained.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 3: The cognitive behavioural approach
In this module, an understanding of the key concepts of the cognitive behavioural approach to counselling in the context of intimate relationships is studied. The conditioning and social cognitive theories are described through cognitive techniques and their applications and relevance to relationship and couples counselling. Confidence in the ability to integrate such components with other counselling approaches is practiced.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 4: The person-centred approach
In the study of this module, key elements of the person-centred approach to counselling are learned. The hierarchy of needs developed by Maslow `s explained in relation to counselling. Person-centred techniques and their relevance and application to relationship and couples counselling are explored in detail.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 5: Boundaries, ethics and defining the relationship
This module focuses on key aims of counselling, and includes confidentiality and ethical conduct within the counselling role. Opportunity is provided of considering the integration of different counselling approaches suitable for client need. Boundaries or limitations of counselling are identified and defined. It also looks at what types of consent and responsibilities the counsellor has to seek. In addition, some historical background of the development of counselling in this context is described, together with the emergence of the therapeutic concepts in use today.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 6: Exploring the problems
This module examines the assessment of clients’ needs, and how to consider building a collaborative relationship within the therapeutic environment. During this phase of counselling, the exploration and understanding of problems begin and the future effort, planning and facilitation necessary for successful resolution is established. As two people are involved, the complexities involved in ensuring everyone are heard is discussed.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module7: Working through the problems
Within this module communication habits are discussed, together with references and examples of various working models such as attachment, triangular relationships, splitting and projection. The process is open and participative, so that there is clarity that a relationship may not recover, and if so the best and possible amicable way to separate are discussed.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 8: Facilitating change
This module addresses acceptance and resolution of difficulties. This is the phase where change is facilitated via counselling strategies and techniques, together with the implementation of agreed programmes for homework, communicative exercises and maintenance. There may be many emotional conflicts and feelings so how to sensitively tackle this is explored.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 9: Specific relationship problems. Part 1
Separation, divorce and problems of a sexual nature are discussed in this module. In addition, relevant counselling techniques, strategies and observations will be identified and described. There are many complexities, so various case studies are discussed to develop a process rather than finding solutions to every specific issue and conundrum.
Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma Module 10: Specific relationship problems. Part 2
Career and workplace problems, bullying, violent relationships, and other related issues are discussed in this module. In addition, relevant counselling techniques, strategies and observations will be identified and explained to address specific work-related problems.
Progression
This Accredited Level 3 Relationship + Couples Counselling Diploma can be used to gain entry to a Level 4 Diploma or higher.
