DIPLOMA IN COUNSELLING AND PSYCHOLOGY
PROGRAMME DURATION: 3 MONTHS
TOTAL GUIDED LEARNING HOURS: 180 HOURS
MODE: WEEKDAYS / WEEKENDS
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The aim of this diploma is to develop learners’ knowledge and practical skills in psychology, counselling principles, mental health awareness, and interpersonal communication. The programme prepares learners to understand human behaviour, apply basic counselling techniques, and respond effectively in supportive and helping roles. It also provides a foundation for further study or progression into counselling, psychology, or social care fields.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion, learners will be able to:
- Explain key psychological concepts and theories of human behaviour.
- Analyse human development across different life stages.
- Identify common mental health conditions and stress-related challenges.
- Demonstrate effective communication and active listening skills.
- Apply basic counselling approaches in guided scenarios.
- Recognise ethical principles in counselling practice.
- Conduct basic behavioural observations and personality analysis.
- Demonstrate professional conduct in counselling-related situations.
MODULE 1: FOUNDATIONS OF HUMAN BEHAVIOUR
DURATION- (20 Hours)
- Core principles of psychology
- Human thoughts, emotions, and behaviour
- Major psychological perspectives
- Behavioural influences in everyday life
Assessment
- Short written test
- Behaviour observation task
MODULE 2: HUMAN DEVELOPMENT ACROSS THE LIFESPAN
DURATION- (20 Hours)
- Life stages and development patterns
- Childhood, adolescence, adulthood, ageing
- Emotional and cognitive development
- Social and environmental influences
Assessment
- Case study
- Presentation on development stages
MODULE 3: COUNSELLING PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICE
DURATION – (30 Hours)
- Role and responsibilities of a counsellor
- Counselling process and stages
- Types of counselling approaches
- Ethics, confidentiality, and boundaries
Assessment:
- Written assignment
- Role-play counselling session
MODULE 4: COMMUNICATION AND ACTIVE LISTENING SKILLS
DURATION- (20 Hours)
- Active listening techniques
- Empathy development
- Verbal and non-verbal communication
- Building trust and rapport
Assessment
- Listening skills evaluation
- Mock counselling interaction
MODULE 5: MENTAL HEALTH AND EMOTIONAL WELLBEING
DURATION – (25 Hours)
- Stress, anxiety, and depression
- Emotional wellbeing and resilience
- Coping strategies and support systems
- Mental health awareness in society
Assessment
- Case study analysis
- Written Exam
MODULE 6: COUNSELLING TECHNIQUES AND INTERVENTIONS
DURATION – (30 Hours)
- Basic counselling approaches
- Introduction to CBT principles
- Solution-focused techniques
- Problem-solving and goal setting
Assessment
- Practical demonstration
- Mock counselling session
MODULE 7: BEHAVIOUR ANALYSIS AND PERSONALITY STUDIES
DURATION – (25 Hours)
- Personality theories
- Behaviour patterns and traits
- Psychological assessment basics
- Observation and interpretation skills
Assessment
- Personality analysis report
- Practical observation task
MODULE 8: PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING PRACTICE AND ETHICS
DURATION – (10 Hours)
- Supervised practice sessions
- Case simulations
- Ethical responsibilities
- Confidentiality and professional conduct
Assessment
- Practicum evaluation
- Viva examination
ASSESSMENT STRUCTURE
Component | Weight |
Module Assignments | 30% |
Case Studies and Practical Tasks | 25% |
Counselling Role-Plays and Skills Demonstrations | 20% |
Final Counselling and Psychology Project | 15% |
Participation and Attendance | 10% |
Total | 100% |
ASSESSMENT GRADING CRITERIA
- 0 – 39: (Repeat Examination Required)
- 40 – 59: Pass
- 60 – 74: Merit
- 75 and Above: Distinction
Course Locations
Kandy Branch
337/1 Katugastota Road, Kandy
(Mawilmada Junction – 1st Floor, Pizza Hut Building)
Negombo Branch:
12, Thaladuwa First Lane, Negombo
(Behind the Negombo Central Bus Stand)