Certificate in working with couples
Our certificate in working with couples is a three-module course provided online via Zoom. Each module consists of two days (Friday and Saturday) from 10 am to 4:30 pm.
- September 27th and 28th
- October 25th and 26th
- November 22nd and 23rd
This fast-track course is suited to existing counsellors who are exploring work with couples or individuals who are focusing on relationship issues. Each module will give tutor led learning, group discussion time and skills practice. This is an intensive course and will be recorded for later learning on theory driven days.
Aims of the course
- To provide an introductory training for people wishing to work as couple counsellors who have previous working experience and qualifications in the field of counselling.
Learning outcomes:
After successfully completing the training students will:
- Have an understanding of aspects of psychodynamic theory, systemic theory and human sexuality, applicable to working with couples.
- Have developed additional counselling skills for working with couples.
- Have started working with couples.
Learning and teaching strategies:
- Theoretical input from trainers.
- Experiential exercises.
- Group discussion.
- Skills practice.
Course outline:
Module one explores the aims of the course and the basic principles and things to think about when beginning to work with relationships and couples. You will begin to explore systemic theory in relationship work, looking at genograms and systemic questioning as key tools. You will also begin to learn about the psychodynamic theory of the unconscious couple fit.
Module two continues the exploration of psychodynamic theory within relationship counselling with a look at object relations, attachment in adult relationships and couple collusions. You will also begin to consider couple conflict and communication. Finally, you will take a look at working with affairs and the common reactions to affairs within relationships.
Module three will give you an opportunity to think about the issues and key areas of interest with blended families, domestic abuse and separation. You will also explore issues surrounding split agendas within couples and take a look at ethical dilemmas and how you may work in these situations.
All of our modules are designed to offer multiple opportunities for group discussions, small group work and skills practice.
We have a combined experience of 45 years in the field of couples counselling and 35 years in couples counsellor training including Steph being the course developer for Relate for over 15 years.