Accidental Counsellor for Public Sector August

The ‘Accidental Counsellor’ course is a two-half-day online program tailored to empower individuals with practical skills to handle situations where they inadvertently assume a counselling role. Accidental counsellors often find themselves in this position unexpectedly, prompted by conversations or requests from customers, colleagues, friends, or others.

This course delivers valuable and practical skills for stepping into the role of a counsellor and providing support to individuals dealing with anger, distress, or challenging circumstances.

Content

• An overview of mental health, mental illness and wellbeing
• What is a crisis?
• Recognising the signs of mental distress, trauma and stress
• Basic communication and active listening skills
• Basic risk assessment
• Strategies for dealing with people in crisis
• When and where to refer
• Self-care and vicarious trauma prevention

Outcomes
Delegates will:

• Learn how to recognise signs of crisis, respond effectively and make appropriate referrals
• Develop skills in active listening and gentle questioning
• Learn the importance of self-care and meaningful boundary setting

Benefits

Participants will be better equipped to support those around them experiencing crisis and emotional distress.