Health and Social Care

Are you passionate about making a positive impact in people's lives? This course is designed for those who want to explore the field of counselling and develop counselling skills. These skills are needed in a wide range of settings and circumstances. They help people discuss their problems and feelings and encourage them to make their own choices. There’s an increasing demand for counselling services and this fantastic learning opportunity will allow you to gain the skills you need to start a fulfilling career.

For this course you’ll need:

• genuine interest in supporting others in a nurturing environment
• minimum of two relevant Highers, including English and ideally National 5 Maths/Numeracy, or a relevant NC course at SCQF Level 6 or equivalent
• To use counselling skills effectively, it’s essential you can build relationships of trust and respect, so you need to be a good listener, non-judgmental, patient and sensitive.
• to possibly attend a group and/or individual interview and information session, during which you may be asked to complete a written activity
• a satisfactory reference

If you do not have the required qualifications but can demonstrate the ability to work at SCQF level 7 and have life/work experience, skills and qualities required for counselling we may also consider you for a place. 

The course will cover the key aspects of counselling:

• counselling concepts and skills: weekly skills sessions enable you to understand boundaries, equality and relationships; explain and apply knowledge and skills to promote self-awareness and personal growth; focus on core conditions and the three-stage counselling model
• behavioural and cognitive counselling theories: examine psychological and emotional difficulties and explore how positive changes can emerge by altering thinking or behaviour
• humanistic counselling theories: focus on individual human experiences and how their uniqueness guides counselling approaches
• psychodynamic counselling theories: help individuals lead more autonomous and insightful lives. Delve into case studies, analyse practical examples and understand the application of psychodynamic principles
• group counselling skills: look at group theories, dynamics and norms within a personal development group, practicing skills as a facilitator and a participant
• self-evaluation: reflect on your and impact on others, considering strengths and weaknesses within a professional counselling role
• addictive behaviour and dependency: explore the different types of dependency addictions and treatment approaches
• loss, grief, and bereavement: acquire counselling skills to provide empathetic support during challenging times, learning practical techniques to guide people through the grieving process

You’ll hear from professional practitioners from local counselling and support services, such as Break the Silence, NHS, Seascape, local addiction agencies and Relationships Scotland and benefit from their experiences and insights.

On completion of this course:

• you'll have highly valued knowledge and counselling skills that will be of benefit in a wide range of roles and careers that involve working with and/or supporting others
• the level 8 COSCA Certificate in Counselling at Ayrshire College may be an option for you
• HND counselling courses at other colleges may be an option
• you may progress to a relevant degree, such as BSc Psychology and Counselling or a postgraduate Certificate or Diploma in Counselling. Postgraduate counselling courses are also available from privately financed counselling businesses within Scotland. Please check their websites for details of their entrance requirements. 

Students who wish to continue onto a more advanced course that includes a care work placement and/or into employment in the care sector will at that time be required to become a member of the Protection of Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme. This involves a police check by Disclosure Scotland. You can ask about this at the point of application or interview, and this is highly recommended for applicants who have a criminal history.

This is a journey of personal and professional growth. You’ll gain skills which are essential for starting a career in counselling but can also be used across other sectors. Active listening, empathy and non-judgmental approaches are useful in all aspects of life. More and more people need guidance and help, and this increase in demand means that there’s no shortage of opportunities. Apply now to start a career which will make a lasting impact on others.