Ripples in the pond: A qualitative study of graduates' perceptions of the impact of counselling training upon their work within the core professions

Abstract

A small-scale qualitative study was conducted in order to examine the value of counselling training when incorporated into a person's established professional role. Questionnaires were sent to graduates from an MA/diploma in counselling course in order to identify those who had continued working within their core profession. This was followed by in-depth exploration of the issues through a focus group and interviews. Twelve respondents, from a variety of work settings, took part in this second stage. Results indicated that counselling training had impacted on all aspects of their work role and that there can be a bene t of such training in the workplace. Participants developed a tripartite understanding with regard to the self, clients and the organization, and change was experienced in each of these three dimensions. A larger-scale study, among graduates from a number of courses and also among employers, is indicated.

Students’ Perceptions of Training in Counselling Skills: Personal, Work and Study Outcomes

“…The second study explores the nature and extent of the perceived impact of a two-year diploma course in counselling on graduates, with reference to their working environments (Richards 2002). The author concludes the course had affected all aspects of students' work roles and that such training can bring benefits to the workplace.…”