This document will provide you with detailed notes from Unit 2 of the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills. It includes in-depth introductions to Psychodynamic theory, Person Centred theory, and Cognitive Behavioural Theory (CBT), and highlights the key differences between the them. It also d...
Unit 2 - Introduction to Counselling Skills Theory
Psychodynamic Theory
psychodynamic theory is the basis for the psychodynamic approach to the counselling relationship, + is derived from
psychoanalysis.
psychoanalysis a system of psychological theory + therapy aiming to treat mental conditions by investigating the
interaction of conscious + unconscious elements in the mind, + bringing repressed fears + conflicts into
the conscious mind.
psychodynamic based on theory that there is an interrelationship between unconscious + conscious mental forces that
counselling determines personality + motivation.
psychoanalysis vs. psychodynamics: difference is only in the practice …
psychoanalysis psychodynamics
intensive, over several days of the week + often for several take place once a week for a smaller period of time.
years. counsellors also make links to the past.
key elements:
o the role of the unconscious mind + its’ influence on people’s behaviour.
o behaviour is determined by out past experiences, genetic inheritance + the present moment.
o belief that all our internal experiences relate to our relationships with other people.
o belief that insight is more important than feelings + emotions.
o psychological conditions have their causes in our unconscious mind.
o the way to address these issues is to probe the unconscious + bring these into the conscious to provide insight.
o insight is achieved when a client realises what is causing distress, issues are not resolved but it is an important step.
achieving insight:
catharsis strong release of pent up emotions when a problem is resolved.
. arrival at insight must be managed carefully by the counsellor, because whilst insight can result in a great sense of relief … if
arrived at too early, it can produce pain + distress.
. to avoid this, a counsellor must try to enable the client to approach insight one step at a time, as they develop the mental
strength to cope with the realisation about what will be revealed.
. the client will only achieve insight / catharsis when they are ready to do so, however difficult + painful that may be.
transference occurs when the client unconsciously transfers emotions + attitudes onto the counsellor that they
associate with people from their past with whom they had important relationships.
e.g. client may start to regard the counsellor in the same way that they regarded their parents, siblings,
teachers or other authority figures.
transference can be positive or hostile depending on the nature of the relationship.
counter- occurs when the counsellor reacts to these emotions + attitudes.
transference
. psychodynamic counsellors do not try to promote transference, but they are aware this can happen + in such situations, will
acknowledge this is happening + help the client to discuss their feelings.
psychodynamic approach highlights importance of insight as an essential element for the client to achieve positive progress.
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