PROFESSIONAL counselling involves working with individuals, couples, families or groups to accomplish goals, manage conflict and improve mental wellbeing. Though often misconstrued as just advice-giving, the discipline is rooted in psychological theories and evidence-based approaches.
With a registered license from relevant governing bodies, counselling can be practised in various settings such as healthcare, the legal system, education, corporate organisations, or in private practice. Given the wide context, each requires specialised training and skills.
Being trained as a counsellor not only equips one with the skills and knowledge to practise, but also gives them clear awareness of their own belief systems and values through self-reflection and self-development.
A career in psychology creates positive change in both the life of the individual, and in the lives of others - which is extremely rewarding. The demand for practitioners has risen steadily, especially with the effects of the current pandemic.
There are different pathways to becoming a qualified counsellor. Though one can obtain a bachelor’s degree in counselling, a postgraduate degree is usually needed. Requirements for licensure vary by country, but generally includes holding a relevant qualification and having proof of hours of working under a licensed counsellor.
Given that practical competencies are the hallmark of counselling, there is a strong focus on developing the right skills set - such as active listening, questioning, confronting, reflecting and analysis - during training.
Other attributes like empathy, respect, flexibility, self-reflection, and a genuine interest in others, are also what makes an effective practitioner. Nevertheless, counsellors are made and not born, as all of these can be learned.
At the University of Reading Malaysia (UoRM), the ability to self-reflect is something that students are taught to engage in as soon as they begin their BSc (Hons) Psychology programme.
The University of Reading Malaysia campus in EduCity Iskandar.
Vashnarekha Kumarasuriar, qualified counsellor and lecturer in counselling psychology, explains, “Our programme strongly emphasises the integration of theory, research and application. For example, students participate in role plays which not only teach them basic counselling skills, but also challenge traditional misconceptions about what counsellors do.”
“A good grounding in theoretical orientations, ethical standards, and understanding of best practice is essential. Here, students are exposed to the latest research developments within the field and are encouraged to explore these critically.”
The Psychology programme offers training, resources and experiences through compulsory work-based placement modules to help students make the most of their time and gain a competitive edge before they enter the workforce.
Final year student Eugenie Chiang said the experience inspired her to pursue a career focused on reducing the stigmatisation of mental health problems through advocacy.
Year 2 student Lynnette Kim Gnägi, who worked with young children during her placement, added, “This training developed both my personal and professional skills, giving me a significant career head start. I’m confident I’ll stand out.”
The university is dedicated to staying at the forefront of evidence-based teaching and learning. Students have the opportunity to learn cognitive neuroscience, social psychology, developmental psychology, and many other core areas of psychology throughout their three years of studies.
As a UK university with a branch campus in Malaysia, it affords students a truly international experience through its mobility programme which allows travel and study in both directions. The British Psychological Society accredited degree also allows students to access professional postgraduate training in the UK.
Contact information:
For programme enquiries or to arrange a campus tour:
Call or WhatsApp Nishen +60162184012
Open Mon-Fri 9am-5pm and Saturday 10am-4pm
EduCity, 79200 Iskandar Puteri Johor, Malaysia.
