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About the course

Our Level 2 Distance Learning Counselling qualification is aimed at learners who would like to develop the knowledge and to explore the skills needed to become a counsellor in the future, also how to engage in a helping interaction appropriately. Alongside exploring key counselling theories, you will learn the importance of ethical and inclusive practice and reflect on your own personal development and sources of support.

The programme is well suited to those looking to enhance their role or complement studies in fields such as health and social care, children’s care, learning and development, or voluntary and community work. Please note that while it provides a strong foundation, it does not offer direct progression to Level 3 counselling, which requires classroom-based practical training.

Course content

This course covers the following:

  • Introduction to Counselling Skills Theories: Explore key elements of main counselling approaches
  • Using Counselling Skills: Identify and practice a range of skills used in counselling interactions
  • Diversity and Ethics in Counselling: Learn the importance of ethical practice and respecting diversity
  • Counselling Skills and Personal Development: Reflect on personal growth and identify sources of support
How is the course delivered and assessed?

This course is self-directed with resources provided to enable the learner to complete the online assessment required for each unit. A short video assessment is part of Unit 1 which allows you to demonstrate the skills you have learned. Your work will be marked by your tutor with supportive and developmental feedback to help you succeed.

What do I need to join

There are no specific prior qualifications needed to access this qualification. However, learners might find it useful if they have already completed a Level 1 qualification.This qualification is suitable for learners aged 19 and above.

What can I do next

After developing an understanding of counselling skills you may wish to look at the following qualifications to support progression to further learning in the following areas:

Horizontal progression may include:

  • Level 2 Certificate in Information, Advice or Guidance
  • Level 2 Certificate for Working In the Health Sector
  • Level 2 Certificate in Dementia Awareness
  • Level 2 Certificate in Healthcare Support Services
  • Level 2 Certificate in Mental Health Awareness
  • Level 2 Certificate in Nutrition and Health
  • Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
  • Level 2 Certificate in Principles of Working with Individuals with Learning Disabilities
  • Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Dignity and Safeguarding in Adult Health and Social Care
  • Level 2 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care
  • Level 2 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England

Vertical progression into, for example:

  • Level 3 NVQ Certificate in Advice and Guidance
  • Level 3 Award in the Awareness of the Mental Capacity Act 2005
  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care (Adults) for England
  • Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care
  • Level 3 Certificate for Working in the Health Sector
  • Level 3 Certificate in the Principles of End of Life Care
  • Level 3 Certificate in Stroke Care Management
  • Level 3 Diploma In Allied Health Profession Support

This qualification does not qualify learners to practice as a counsellor; however, it can support progression within employment for the following job roles and workers due to the transferable nature of counselling skills:

  • Support Worker (Supported Living)
  • Healthcare Support Service Worker
  • Clinical Healthcare Support Worker
  • Healthcare Assistant
  • Mental Health Support Worker
  • Mental Health Outreach Worker
  • Substance Misuse Worker
  • Information, Advice and Guidance Worker
  • Health Education/Health Promotion Worker
  • Care Assistants/Support Workers/Key Workers in residential settings