Introduction to Counselling Skills

The term ‘counselling skills’ does not have a single definition which is universally accepted, however, ‘counselling skills’ are distinguished from ‘listening skills’ and from counselling. Although the distinction is not always a clear one, because the term ‘counselling skills’ contains elements of these two other activities, it has it’s own place in the continuum between them.

Basic Counselling skills can be used in many professional areas of work, by offering a trained listening ear to those who have difficulty in seeing a solution to their problems.

The element that distinguishes the use of counselling skills from these other activities are the intentions of the user, which is to support their existing role within the caring professions in the corporate, statutory and voluntary sectors

The recipient in turn, will perceive them in that role.

So counselling skills are being used:

When there is intentional use of specific interpersonal skills which reflect the value of counselling, and when the practitioners primary role is enhanced without being changed, and when the client perceives the practitioner as acting within their primary professional/caring role, which is not that of being a professional counsellor.

Many people who are not professional counsellors find themselves called upon to provide a sort of counselling and guidance resource. With the following module you will have the opportunity to develop an understanding of core counselling skills, which includes active, empathic listening and effective responding.