Interpersonal Skills and Helping Conversations

This module will provide the practical and theoretical skills training needed to effectively communicate within different contexts, to open and close helping conversations, and engage in embedded counselling and conversations in mental health settings

By the end of this module the student should be able to:

1. Recognise and perform basic skills required for effective communication e.g. attending, summarising, reflecting and information provision one-on-one, and in group contexts.
2. Understand the context and need for embedded counselling, recognising situations where it might be appropriate and responding with skills required e.g. create space, boundary management, confidentiality.
3. Recognise and respond appropriately to cultural difference within helping situations
4. Recognise and manage risk in helping situations, and be able to refer individuals to further help when appropriate.
5. Develop practical listening and helping skills both online and face to face

1 Key skills in helping conversations

To include listening, body language, reflection and empathy

2 Models of embedded counselling and skilled helping

To include theoretical and practical aspects of embedded counselling, and Egan's Skilled Helper model

3 Personal and professional development

Students will be required to reflect on their own perspectives and boundaries in helping situations, and their personal soundness to act as helpers

4 Legal, professional and ethical issues

Aspects of professional conduct, ethical boundaries and policy associated with counselling and mental health contexts.