Basic Peer Counselor Training
This training covers three topics: Fundamentals of Counseling, Substance Abuse, and Dating Violence.
Topic 1 "Fundamentals of Counseling": Participants will learn about the counseling process and basic counseling techniques such as attending, building rapport, active listening, questioning techniques, and session closure. Counseling is not about providing information, although information can be shared during counseling sessions. It does not involve giving advice and suggestions. One of the goals of counseling is to empower the client to gain confidence in making their own choices and to become aware of alternative solutions, enabling them to make their own decisions.
Topic 2 "Substance Abuse": This topic begins with an introduction to the concept of substance abuse, reasons behind its occurrence, common types of substances that are abused, recognizing signs of substance abuse, the resulting impacts, initiating conversations with individuals facing substance abuse issues, and providing support. The message from the presenter emphasizes, "Take care of your mental health before helping friends with substance abuse issues," why? This is because when we assist others while our own mental health is compromised, we might inadvertently be influenced to engage in similar behaviors or experience side effects.
Topic 3 "Dating Violence": Participants will learn about the meaning and types of dating violence, identifying signs of individuals who have experienced dating violence, the origins and consequences of dating violence, guidelines for fostering healthy relationships, and techniques for aiding friends who are experiencing dating violence.
Participants acquire skills to establish strong counseling relationships, identify and support individuals dealing with substance abuse, and recognize and assist friends involved in healthy dating relationships. Overall, this training significantly contributes to participants' abilities to foster positive interactions and aid others in challenging situations.
