Introduction to counselling

Which of the following best describes the primary focus of psychotherapy?

• Short-term stress management

• Deep-rooted emotional and psychological issues

• Career and academic guidance
  
  

• 1. Practical problem-solving strategies

Answer explanation

The primary focus of psychotherapy is to address deep-rooted emotional and psychological issues, helping individuals understand and resolve their internal conflicts, rather than just managing short-term stress or providing practical solutions.

Counselling is typically:

• Focused on past traumas and unconscious conflicts

• Short-term and solution-oriented

• Used to treat chronic mental health conditions
  
  

• 1. Concerned with restructuring personality

Answer explanation

Counselling is typically short-term and solution-oriented, focusing on immediate issues rather than deep-seated past traumas or chronic conditions, making it distinct from other therapeutic approaches.

Which of the following therapeutic approaches is more commonly associated with psychotherapy than counselling?

• Active listening and problem-solving

• Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Gestalt

• Coaching and emotional support techniques

• Motivational interviewing

Answer explanation

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Gestalt are structured therapeutic approaches typically used in psychotherapy, focusing on deeper psychological issues, unlike counselling which often emphasizes support and guidance.

What is the primary goal of counselling?

• Deep psychological transformation

• Uncovering unconscious motivations

• Support, guidance, and problem resolution

• Personality restructuring

Answer explanation

The primary goal of counselling is to provide support, guidance, and help individuals resolve their problems. While other options may occur, the main focus is on assisting clients in navigating their challenges.

Which statement is true about practitioner training?

• Psychotherapists and counsellors receive the same level of training

• Counsellors must have a doctorate degree to practice

• Psychotherapists undergo extensive clinical training and supervision

• Counsellors are required to specialize in psychodynamic therapy

Answer explanation

The correct statement is that psychotherapists undergo extensive clinical training and supervision, which is essential for their practice. This distinguishes them from counsellors, who typically have different training requirements.

What is a key difference between psychotherapy and counselling?

• Counselling focuses solely on cognitive techniques

• Psychotherapy is generally longer-term and more intensive

• Psychotherapy is only for severe mental disorders

• Counselling is more structured than psychotherapy

Answer explanation

The key difference is that psychotherapy is generally longer-term and more intensive, focusing on deeper psychological issues, while counselling tends to be shorter and more focused on specific problems or guidance.

Which of the following is a common technique used in counselling?

• Exposure therapy

• Dream analysis

• Transference interpretation

• Solution-focused brief therapy

Answer explanation

Solution-focused brief therapy is a common counselling technique that emphasizes finding solutions in the present and exploring hope for the future, making it practical and goal-oriented.

In which scenario would a client likely seek psychotherapy instead of counselling?

• To improve communication skills

• To receive career advice

• To address a history of trauma and complex emotional issues

• To learn stress management techniques

Answer explanation

Clients seeking to address a history of trauma and complex emotional issues typically require psychotherapy, which delves deeper into psychological problems, unlike counselling that focuses on specific issues or skills.

Name 5 characteristics of a counsellor

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Answer explanation

A counsellor should possess empathy, active listening skills, strong communication abilities, non-judgmental attitude, and professionalism. These traits help create a supportive environment for clients to express themselves.

Provide 5 issues that psychologist and counsellors often face in their field.

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Answer explanation

Psychologists and counselors often face issues such as client resistance, ethical dilemmas, emotional burnout, maintaining confidentiality, and cultural sensitivity. These challenges can impact their effectiveness and the therapeutic relationship.