In this unit you will be given a practical and research-based introduction to the major psychotherapies and counselling approaches used within the professional practice of psychology. The unit will develop your knowledge of the important theoretical and empirical basis of psychotherapy. You will develop awareness of common therapeutic and counselling strategies and the different reactions they may provoke from clients as part of the behaviour change process. The unit will also build practical and interpersonal skills that form the foundation of effective psychology practice, including micro-counselling skills, reflective practice and peer feedback and supervision. The unit will provide you with diverse opportunities to fully engage in content through role plays to practice these skills using case-based scenarios, and personal reflection on practice drawing on research evidence regarding effective counselling and therapeutic practice. Key elements of content covered in the unit include: psychotherapy theories, therapeutic intervention techniques, research in support of the various theories and techniques, and issues related to conducting ethical, culturally-sensitive and productive therapy.

Every unit is reviewed for enhancement each year. At the most recent review, the following staff and student feedback items were identified and recommendations were made.

Feedback from Student feedback from SUTE and during lectures, and personal (UC) observations

The textbook had stronger relevance to the UK context and was less comprehensive compared to the lecture content. It did not appear to provide significant additional information beyond what was already covered in most modules.

Review the relevance and usefulness of readings in the textbook. Explore the feasibility of developing an e-reading list.

Feedback from Student feedback from SUTE, emails and personal Zoom meeting with students

Students expressed challenges in communication and group collaboration with Assessment 2. In particular, student/s noted that they did not show empathy and understanding of schedule conflicts. This occurred despite the option for students to form their own groups.

Establish and communicate clear expectations for professional communication and standards for the group assessment prior to assembling groups.

Feedback from Student feedback from SUTE, student performance on assessments, and personal (UC) observation

Students demonstrated difficulty in critically evaluating intervention and evaluation research and in the practical application of psychological theory for the purposes of clinical case formulation.

Review the lecture sequence and add information regarding research evaluation and the application of case formulation.