Free Integrative Counselling Foundation Degree in Durham – New College Durham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime

About this course

Free FdA Integrative Counselling Course in Durham. Classes run full-time at Framwellgate Moor Campus, New College Durham. The course takes two years and focuses on person-centred counselling, current sector practice, and supporting people through mental health issues, bereavement, and relationship difficulties. You'll need to complete 100 hours of supervised counselling placement and apply for BACP Student Membership as part of the programme. Entry requires GCSE or Level 2 Maths and English, evidence of 120 hours of previous counselling training at Level 3, and a clear enhanced DBS check.

Who this course is for

Course may be subject to change.

Help others improve their wellbeing and quality of life by studying counselling. This programme will prepare you to become a professional counsellor and help you to help others cope with problems, such as mental health issues, bereavement and relationship issues. The modules you will study will be focused on person-centred counselling and current issues and best practice within the sector.You will be required to apply for BACP Student Membership, undertake 12 sessions of personal therapy within Level 4 (self-funded) and apply for an Enhanced DBS (provided by NCD).

Entry requirements

Please refer to College website.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop knowledge of person-centred counselling theory and practice.
  • You'll study current issues and best practice within the counselling sector.
  • You'll learn how to support people dealing with mental health issues, bereavement, and relationship problems.
  • You'll complete 100 hours of supervised counselling placement to build practical experience.
  • You'll undertake 12 sessions of personal therapy as part of your professional development.
  • You'll apply the skills needed to work as a professional counsellor.

How you will learn

You'll study through classroom-based sessions at Framwellgate Moor Campus. Learning is supported by supervised counselling placements, where you'll work directly with clients. Personal therapy sessions form part of the programme. Assessment methods will be confirmed by the centre, and the course may be subject to change. Contact New College Durham directly for full details on how the course is assessed.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. New College Durham will confirm anything else you need before you start. You will need to fund your 12 personal therapy sessions yourself. An enhanced DBS check will be arranged by the college.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Counsellor, working with individuals in private practice or community settings
  • Mental health support worker, helping people manage mental health challenges
  • Bereavement counsellor, supporting people through grief and loss
  • Relationship counsellor, working with couples and families
  • Employee assistance counsellor, providing workplace wellbeing support
  • Voluntary sector counsellor, working with charities and community organisations

What you could study next

After completing the FdA Integrative Counselling qualification, you could progress to a full BA (Hons) in Counselling or a related subject to deepen your knowledge. Many counsellors go on to study a Level 4 or Level 5 Diploma in Counselling accredited by BACP, which supports registration as a qualified counsellor. Membership and accreditation with BACP is the recognised route to practising professionally in the UK.

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