Training
If you are thinking about becoming a counsellor, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Counselling training usually happens in stages, allowing you to build skills, confidence and experience over time.
LEVEL 2 EQUIVALENT
You are new to counselling studies or have completed the equivalent of level 1 in counselling.
LEVEL 3 EQUIVALENT
You have completed the equivalent of level 2 in counselling, or have some counselling skills through your job.
LEVEL 4 DIPLOMA
You have completed the equivalent of level 3 in counselling, or have a qualification which is deemed as a lead in to Level 4.
This leads to being able to practise as a qualfied counsellor either in private practice or within an agency.
CONTINUED PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
A blend of single session and more in depth courses, usually undertaken by qualified counsellor, coaches and healthcare professionals.
They are open to participants who have trained elsewhere, creating opportunities for a wider learning community.
Foundation Certificate in Counselling (Level 2 equivalent)
An introductory stage for those beginning their counselling training.
This 10 week NCPS quality checked programme builds strong foundations in counselling skills, theory, self-awareness and ethical awareness. It is designed for those who are starting to take counselling more seriously and want a solid, supportive grounding before progressing further.
You will begin to develop core listening skills, an understanding of boundaries and ethical practice, and the reflective capacity needed to move into Level 3 training and beyond
Advanced Certificate in Counselling (Level 3 equivalent)
An introductory professional qualification for those beginning their counselling training.
This 12 week NCPS quality checked programme builds strong foundations in counselling skills, theory, self-awareness and ethical practice. It’s designed for those considering a professional qualification and wanting a solid, supportive grounding before progressing to practitioner training.
You will develop core listening skills, an understanding of ethical frameworks, and the reflective capacity required for Level 4 study.
Level 4 Diploma in Counselling
A professional diploma designed to prepare you for real client work.
Level 4 deepens your counselling skills, ethical awareness and professional identity. With a strong emphasis on safe, supervised practice, you will learn how to work confidently with clients while developing the maturity and responsibility required for professional registration.
This is the stage at which you move from learning about counselling to becoming a practising counsellor under supervision.
Find out more about our new CPD Programme
How the courses are taught
Learning structure:
Tutor-led in-person teaching sessions
Skills practice in small groups
Reflective exercises
Guided discussion and feedback
Reading and self-study
Assessments are focused on learning and development rather than performance. We embrace personality, difference and creativity. This enhances your experience during training and as a congruent practitioner.
It is important that you can contribute, listen and be respectful in a group environment, as your peers will be your closest collaborators. They and you will often be holding deep and personal stories, both individually and within the group, particularly during level 4. Confidentiality is vital during training, so the environment is useful and safe. However, you will only be required to disclose what you feel is comfortable for you and the tutors are always on hand to talk with you about any concerns you may have. Courses are a mixture of professional training and important self-awareness.
The best counsellors are the ones who work through their own situations and life experiences, to enable them to deliver empathic and understanding counselling sessions with people who need it.
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