Identification and standardization of counsellor competencies for masters level counsellor education programs in India

Identification and standardization of counsellor competencies for masters level counsellor education programs in India

Psychology

Counselling psychology programs in India have been criticized for being ‘poor replicas of concepts that have originated in western cultures’. The lack of Indian models has been quoted as a drawback indicating that trainees are not necessarily competent to provide effective counselling services. The present study aimed at identifying and standardizing competenciesfor post graduate counsellor training in India based on local needs.The study employed a mixed methods design with four phases. In the first phase, a list of key occupational tasks were drawn up through a systematic review of literature and interviews with three expert practitioners. The second phase was the development of a counsellor competency list which outlined the various competencies required to fulfil the key occupational tasks determined in the previous stage. Seventy one competencies were identified and the list was then given for expert validation. In the third phase, the competency list was given to 75 practicing counsellors across India who rated the competencies on a 5-point likert scale, based on its importance for post graduate counsellor trainees. In the final stage the prioritized competencies were analyzed using a concept development approach to identify core competencies required for master level counselling psychology trainees. The resulting core competencies were three foundational competency domains which included ethical practice, personal and professional development and cultural sensitivity.

Thomas, Elizabeth - 1144210

CHRIST (Deemed to be University)

English

PhD