Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Counselling and Helping Skills

• What counselling is and is not

• The goals and scope of basic counselling

• Qualities of an effective helper

• The helping relationship and stages of counselling

• Activity: Reflect on past helping experiences

Module 2: Core Counselling Skills and Techniques

• Active listening, empathy, and silence

• Open vs. closed questions

• Paraphrasing, summarizing, and reflecting feelings

• Building rapport and trust

• Roleplay: Practice basic listening and reflection techniques

Module 3: Ethics, Boundaries, and Self-Care

• Confidentiality and its limits

• Setting and maintaining boundaries

• Cultural sensitivity and respect

• Managing personal emotions and stress as a helper

• Case Study: Ethical dilemmas in informal counselling

Module 4: Supporting People in Distress

• Recognizing signs of emotional distress and mental health challenges

• Responding to grief, anxiety, trauma, and anger

• Crisis intervention basics and emotional first aid

• Knowing when to refer to professionals

• Simulation: Responding to a distressed colleague or student

Module 5: Applying Counselling in Everyday Contexts

• Counselling in the workplace, school, and community

• Using counselling skills in conflict resolution and peer support

• Building a personal development and referral toolkit

• Group reflection and learning consolidation

• Capstone Project: Develop a support plan for a common workplace/community scenario