Counselling Skills (1 day)

Course Overview

One of the most difficult responsibilities for human resource professionals, managers and supervisors is dealing with the personal problems of others. When badly conducted, discussions can often involve embarrassment, fear, anger and frustration on both sides. Yet the ability to counsel effectively is one of the most important skills needed by those in posts of authority - to safeguard the well-being of staff and to strengthen working relationships with colleagues.

This course helps professionals understand what counselling is, gives guidelines on what to do, and allows practice of the most effective communication skills in counselling.

Audience

Anyone whose role requires them to counsel people with personal problems. The course has proved an invaluable introduction to the skills of counselling, and a refresher for those wishing to re-visit the principles and review their performance.

Skills Gained

By the end of the course participants will be able to:

• identify situations in which counselling may be necessary
• create the most appropriate environment in which to conduct the counselling interview
• use effective communication techniques during the interview
• apply counselling skills to a variety of situations

Course Outline

The meaning and scope of counselling

• what counselling is and what it is not
• knowing when to counsel
• professional responsibilities
• benefits of counselling

Counselling styles

• personal analysis
• identifying development areas

Communication skills in counselling

• creating a climate of trust and confidentiality
• encouraging people to talk openly
• using questions to probe for relevant information
• active listening
• encouraging people to develop their own solutions
• facilitating decisions - seeking agreement and commitment
• support mechanisms