The evidence guide provides advice on assessment and must be read in conjunction with the Performance Criteria, Required Skills and Knowledge, the Range Statement and the Assessment Guidelines for this Training Package.

Critical aspects for assessment and evidence required to demonstrate this unit of competency:

The individual being assessed must provide evidence of specified essential knowledge as well as skills

Observation of workplace performance is essential for assessment of this unit

Consistency of performance should be demonstrated over the required range of situations relevant to the workplace

Access and equity considerations:

All workers in community services should be aware of access, equity and human rights issues in relation to their own area of work

All workers should develop their ability to work in a culturally diverse environment

In recognition of particular issues facing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, workers should be aware of cultural, historical and current issues impacting on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people

Assessors and trainers must take into account relevant access and equity issues, in particular relating to factors impacting on Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander clients and communities

Context of and specific resources for assessment:

In cases where the learner does not have the opportunity to cover all relevant aspects in the work environment, the remainder should be assessed through realistic simulations, projects, previous relevant experience or oral questioning on 'What if?' scenarios

Assessment of this unit of competence will usually include observation of processes and procedures, oral and/or written questioning 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 workplace settings, any evidence should be authenticated by colleagues, supervisors, clients or other appropriate persons

Method of assessment

Observation in the workplace (if possible)

Written assignments/projects or questioning should be used to assess knowledge

Case study and scenario as a basis for discussion of issues and strategies to contribute to best practice.

The assessment environment should not disadvantage the candidate

Assessment practices should take into account any relevant language or cultural issues related to Aboriginality, gender or language barriers other than English

Where the candidate has a disability, reasonable adjustment may be applied during assessment

Language and literacy demands of the assessment task should not be higher than those of the work role

This describes the essential skills and knowledge and their level required for this unit.

Essential knowledge:

The candidate must be able to demonstrate essential knowledge required to effectively do the task outlined in elements and performance criteria of this unit, manage the task and manage contingencies in the context of the identified work role

These include knowledge of:

Acknowledge and describe the importance, purpose and benefits of clinical supervision

Advances and theory regarding effective practice

Aware of legislative and professional standards requirements to practice

Boundaries and limitations to counselling interventions

Complex interpersonal interactions, power in relationships, abuse and conflict

Development of counselling models and theories

Difference between supportive and interventionist counselling

Monitor issues related to ethics, laws, regulations and professional standards

Organisation policy and procedures

Personal awareness of values, family of origin work, in depth analysis

Policies and procedures of the practice setting

Professional ethics and standards of practice that apply to the practice of counselling

Recognise ethical dilemmas in counselling practice

Recognise when a legal consultation is necessary

Recognise when unscheduled supervision is required

Self awareness

Support groups available to families with relationship difficulties

Timing and appropriate termination counselling

Understand dynamics of intimate relationships

Understand the process for ethical decision-making

Understanding of a wide range of client groups and cultural diversity

Essential skills:

It is critical that the candidate demonstrate the ability to:

Accept accountability

Accept critical feedback from supervised practice

Apply ethical standards

Appreciate individual difference

Consult with peers and/or supervisor if personal attitudes or beliefs threaten to adversely impact on counselling work

Critically review own counselling practice

Demonstrate an awareness of the impact of values, belief systems and their own relationships on the professional relationship

Demonstrate awareness of self

Demonstrate highly developed research and analytical skills

Identify own professional development needs

Identify and promote the importance of using opportunities to address environmental responsibility and sustainable practice issues

Maintain a solid theoretical base

Manage time

Practise within the defined scope of practice and competence

Provide transparent service and be accountable for actions

Recognise opportunities for counsellors to participate in clinical research

Seek out clinical supervision and professional development opportunities to ensure best practice and to meet duty of care requirements

Take appropriate action when legal and ethical dilemmas emerge

The Range Statement relates to the unit of competency as a whole. It allows for different work environments and situations that may affect performance. Add any essential operating conditions that may be present with training and assessment depending on the work situation, needs of the candidate, accessibility of the item, and local industry and regional contexts.

Clinical supervision may include:

Engaging with a supervisor either external or internal to the organisation

Group supervision

In person individual supervision with qualified and experienced clinical supervisor

Peer supervision

Telephone or other communication mode

Self analysis may relate to:

Belief and value systems

Biases and prejudices

Family of origin

Gender

Personal experiences

Sexuality

Prepare for clinical supervision may include but is not limited to:

Identifying and acknowledging reactions and responses to counselling interactions and situations

Identifying areas of practice to be challenged

Identifying limitations in areas for practice development

Maintaining journal work for self reflection that contributes to the content of supervision

Evidence of personal growth and professional learning may include:

Demonstrated workable application of:

ability to analyse own counselling errors and discuss options for improving practice

extended and improved counselling skills

extended knowledge of counselling theories and approaches