Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description The purpose of this module is to critically introduce students to theoretical and practice perspective at the forefront of the psychology of counselling and psychotherapy. In this module, students will develop advanced knowledge of the origins and growth of counselling and psychotherapy theory and practice drawing on the central tenets’ of psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, humanistic and systemic approaches. Students will develop a critical awareness of the process of counselling and psychotherapy; an appreciation of the core characteristics associated with effective psychotherapy; and the factors associated with establishing a good therapeutic relationship. Students are expected to attend lectures and to engage in experiential work in class supplemented by reading and reviewing relevant literature and course material as assigned. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the theoretical underpinnings at the forefront of contemporary counselling and psychotherapy 2. Critically appraise the philosophical positions and application of four major psychological approaches to mental health difficulties (psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioural, humanistic and systemic). 3. Demonstrate a critical understanding of the research methodologies employed in investigating outcomes in psychotherapy. 4. Analyse and critically examine the core characteristics associated with an effective psychotherapy from the humanistic (person –centred) approach i.e. empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. 5. Demonstrate competence of basic counselling skills relevant to establishing a good therapeutic relationship, such as active listening, physical and psychological attending, clarifying, open-questioning, reflection, paraphrasing, and empathic responding. 6. Demonstrate a critical awareness of the relative strengths and limitations of the four major approaches as they are applied to various psychological difficulties. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
The historical context for contemporary counselling and psychotherapy practice within the discipline of psychology Research paradigms in counselling and psychotherapy Introduction to four major approaches in psychotherapy: psychodynamic, cognitive- behavioural, humanistic and systemic Efficacy and Effectiveness in psychotherapy In-class exercises, involving real play, focused on basic counselling skills | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||