This course is for those wanting to learn counselling skills for the first time or to improve and develop existing skills. It is a multi-level group (basic, intermediate and advanced) with an emphasis on learning from each other. The number of tutors will vary depending on group size and the aim will be one tutor to every six participants. There will be small group learning and exercises, as well as time in the larger group. Sessions will be tailored to the needs of those attending.

Skills covered include reflecting, summarising, paraphrasing, creative interventions and challenging while embracing Rogers’ core conditions of empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard. We also draw from a range of other theories and for the advanced groups look at working with couples and groups. The course will have an emphasis on the practical; learning skills to take away and use.

Course tutors:   Mark Head, BSc Hons., CTA, UKCP Reg. Psychotherapist, TTA(P)

Leilani Mitchell,  Dip Couns., CTA, UKCP Reg. Psychotherapist, TSTA(P), MBACP

                        Carole Stilwell, Dip. Couns., MBACP (Accred.), BASRT

Mark is a co founder of The Link Centre and is an experienced and qualified UKCP registered psychotherapist and has a private practice based in Sussex. An accomplished teacher, he has taught in a variety of settings including Counselling Skills and Diploma courses. He brings his business background and experience to his work in organisational development. An endorsed TA supervisor, he runs a supervision practice for counsellors and therapists.

Leilani is a qualified counsellor and a UKCP registered psychotherapists and runs a successful private counselling and psychotherapy practice in Sussex. Working with individuals, couples and groups on a wide variety of issues she also supervises a variety of Counsellors and Psychotherapists in the south east and is co founder of The Link Centre. Leilani also does some work in business applying her knowledge of Transactional Analysis in an organisational context.

Carole is a qualified and BACP Accredited counsellor who runs a successful private practice based in Sussex.  Working with individuals and couples on a wide variety of issues she has considerable experience of bereavement and addiction issues.  Carole has also undertaken further advanced training in psychosexual health and is currently working at The Brenchley Unit in Maidstone for people with personality disorders.

Recognition: A certificate will be presented at the end of the course. Students who complete the course may apply to attend The Link Centre’s counselling diploma or psychotherapy course.

Total cost - £375

A 10 % deposit is payable to secure your place and balance will be due before 31.07.12