Elements and Performance Criteria

The Range Statement explains the scope and context of the unit of competency allowing for differences between workplaces. The scope of variables chosen for training and assessment requirements will depend on the particular work situation.

Nature of counselling service:
Context and resources of agency
Preferred counselling model(s) of agency

Counselling methods:
Are according to agency policy and procedures

The Evidence Guide identifies the critical aspects of assessment, and the essential knowledge and skills to be demonstrated to confirm competency in this unit. The Evidence Guide is an integral part of the assessment of competency and it should be read carefully in conjunction with the Range Statement, elements and performance criteria.
Essential Knowledge:
Counselling context, process and goals
Knowledge of theories supporting counselling process
Human life stage development

Essential skills:
Active listening
Respectful responding
Development of empathy and rapport
Well timed challenging
Attention to counselling relationship
Contracting appropriate to context

Critical aspects of assessment must include:
The candidate will need to demonstrate the ability to work within the counselling framework.
Managing own values so they do not impede effective work and managing the stress of the work will be key indicators of competency

Concurrent assessment and relationship with other units:

This unit is part of a suite of units that describe the counselling process and should be assessed concurrently or sequentially:

CHCCSL601A Work within a structured counselling process
CHCCSL602A Facilitate the counselling relationship
CHCCSL603A Provide support for clients implementing a course of action
CHCCSL604A Reflect and improve upon counselling skills

Resource implications:
Access to an appropriate workplace or an environment capable of accurately simulating the workplace for assessment purposes

Method of assessment:
Demonstration of competency within the working environment to learn from others and reflect on performance
Where there is not an opportunity to cover all of the Range Statement statements in the work environment, the remainder should be assessed through realistic simulations, projects, previous relevant experience or oral questioning on "What if?" scenarios
Observation of processes and procedures, oral and/or written questions on Essential knowledge and skills and consideration of required attitudes
Where performance is not directly observed and/or is required to be demonstrated over a period of time and/or in a number of locations, any evidence should be authenticated by colleagues, supervisors, clients or other appropriate persons

Consistency in performance:
Evidence of competency in this unit will need to be assessed over a period of time in order to gather evidence of performance over the Range Statement. This will include contexts applicable to the work environment, such as actual or simulated workplace situations involving a combination of direct, indirect and supplementary forms of evidence.

Context of assessment:
This unit of competence will be assessed in the workplace or in a simulated workplace and under the normal range of workplace conditions