Conversational Skills
The Conversational Skills Course caters to those who are in engaging meaningfully in pastoral conversations. The course is suitable for volunteers, congregants, caregivers, and counsellors who need a refresher. The course covers principles of communication to enhance the art of careful listening, reflecting, questioning, activating support, as well as appropriate scripture and prayer ministry. The course aims to facilitate wise lifestyles and spiritual maturity. “Conversational Skills in Pastoral Counselling” is a comprehensive course that delves into the art and science of effective communication within a pastoral counselling context.
The course begins with an orientation where participants outline their expectations and intentions for applying the skills learned. The significance of listening to stories is emphasized, highlighting the interconnectedness of personal narratives and the layered themes within them. The metaphor of ‘Panning for Gold’ underscores the importance of discernment in extracting valuable insights from problem stories. The course covers various aspects of skilful listening, including understanding the communication model, dealing with internalized societal expectations, and navigating unrealistic expectations.
A substantial focus is given to attitudes, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a compassionate attitude akin to that of Christ. The course provides practical strategies for building trust, such as banning accusation, blame, and criticism (ABC) and employing skilful reflection. The content explores the process of externalizing problems, tracing their history, identifying competencies, and challenging
internalized discourses. The art of questioning is addressed, differentiating between open and closed questions and emphasizing the importance of therapeutic intent in asking questions. Skilful support for transformation is discussed, including the externalizing process, planning for action, and recognizing helpful alliances. The course concludes with guidance on closing conversations through
skilful prayer and scripture ministry while respecting the power and autonomy of the individual. Participants are encouraged to reflect on how the course met their expectations and consider practical applications of the learned skills. Overall, this course provides a rich and practical foundation for pastoral counsellors to enhance their conversational skills and support individuals on their journey
towards transformation and healing.
Course Programme - Day 1
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Open meeting 08h00
Greeting, Course orientation
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Listening to stories 08h30
Stories; Listening; Attitude; Trust; Communication
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Tea 10h30
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Skilful listening 11h00
Tracing and naming the problem: Building trust; Recognizing competencies; Internalized noises and discourses; Expectations
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Lunch 13h00
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Skilful questioning 13h30
Deepening: Relational ripple; History; Resistance; Alternative stories; Sparkling moments; Challenging internalized discourses
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Supporting transformation and change 15h30
Activating change; Allies and support; memorializing movement
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Skilful closing of conversations 16h00
Respect and power; Scripture and prayer; Follow up
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Course reflection 16h30
Feedback
Other info
CPSC CPD 6(2E)
Course Registration : WCRPCPSC2025/01/31SH
Course outline
Skilful Listening
Skilful Questioning
Skilful Support
Skilful Closing of Conversation
Online Course Dates (8 hours)
12 July 2024
11 October 2024
Online Course Hours (8 hours)
The course can be attended online either in July 2024 or October 2024
The course is presented in one day: Friday 9h00-17h00