Abstract

Becoming a Counsellor is a one-stop reference book for all new counselling trainees. Whether starting out on an introductory course or tackling a postgraduate diploma, this book will make the journey to professional qualification that little bit easier. It addresses the complexities and challenges of counselling training by confronting and unpicking the many potentially daunting issues and questions faced by students throughout their training. The book covers a comprehensive range of topics, including

- choosing a course and theoretical orientation

- clarifying roles - who's who on the course?

- explaining common pedagogical activities and expectations, including the personal development journal

- assessment, supervision and support

- ethical and legal issues.

While earlier chapters introduce methods of learning and developing for those new to the field, later sections addressing research, supervision and placements will be of interest to students who are studying at a higher level.

This engaging, straightforward introduction to counselling will be an essential companion for students new to counselling throughout their training, whether on basic introductory or postgraduate diploma courses.
'I wish I had read this book during my training! It answers so many of the questions I had wanted to ask, but didn't because I feared I should have known the answers. Amis writes skilfully using her own experience as a trainer, counsellor and supervisor, and does so with warmth, compassion and knowledge. I strongly recommend this book for anyone in training, or contemplating it.'
Dr Andrew Reeves
Counsellor, Supervisor, Trainer and Editor of Counselling and Psychotherapy Research journal