Existential Counselling

Existential Counselling is a comprehensive introduction to the theoretical and practical implications of working as a Counsellor from the perspective of the philosophy of existentialism and phenomenology. Through this highly practical course, students gain a thorough understanding of the theory and the philosophy that underpins counselling and how this relates to personal beliefs about oneself, others and the world. Students practice the skill of counselling extensively through role-play and debriefing activities and are able to situate existentialism within the overall picture of psychotherapy and counselling. Students also explore the notion of time in relation to time-limited and open-ended existential counselling and the importance of the counselling relationship per se. The unit is a unique combination of didactic teaching, self-understanding and experiential learning.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand the basic theoretical philosophy of existential counselling and how this relates to personal beliefs about oneself, others and the world
  • How existential counselling is applied in practice
  • How existential philosophy and existential counselling fits into the overall picture of psychotherapy and counselling
  • Apply existential counselling skills in relation to different population groups and varying counselling dilemmas
  • Identify ethical and professional practices related to counselling
  • Apply self-awareness to individual and relationship counselling skills
  • Explore the notion of time in relation to time-limited and open-ended existential counselling
  • Explore the importance of the counselling relationship

Content Areas

  • Phenomenology
  • The Counselling Relationship
  • Description vs Interpretation
  • Values and Beliefs
  • Polarities
  • Sedimented Behaviour Patterns
  • Authenticity
  • Existential Anxiety
  • The Four Dimensions of Existence
  • Perception of Self Concept
  • Meaninglessness, Depression and paradox
  • Emotions, Moods and States of Mind
  • Imagination and Dream Work

Unit Duration and Workload

This unit involves a total of 36 hours of face to face delivery of self directed study including educator contact in flexible delivery modes, generating a further 54 hours of self-study per unit including research and related study activities, including assessment. This translates to 7.5 hours per week for the uni