Level 2 Counselling Course at University and Professional Development Centre

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Aug 2027
Study modePart-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Counselling Course in Bury Saint Edmunds. Classes run at University and Professional Development Centre, part-time during the day. The course runs over two years, giving you time to build your knowledge alongside other commitments. You'll study core counselling skills, counselling theory, and the ethical framework that guides counselling practice. This level 2 counselling qualification is open to adults aged 19 or over who are UK residents. You must be 19 or over on 31 August 2025 to be eligible. NCFE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills with certificate.

Who this course is for

Many people find it helpful to seek counselling at some point in their lives, and a counsellor can provide support for people in all sorts of situations. If you're interested in supporting people to improve their personal well-being, this course will provide you with the correct understanding, knowledge and skills to do that. You'll learn about core counselling skills and how to use them in a counselling relationship. You will also be taught about counselling theory and the ethical framework that informs how counsellors use their skills.Click here to View more information

Entry requirements

Learners must meet the following eligibility criteria to access this course: Be aged 19+ on the 31/08/2025 Learners must be a UK resident and legally living in the UK on the first day of learning. (proof required) Due to Government funding criteria, we are unable to accept learners who live in Scotland, Wales, N Ireland, Ireland or a devolved postcode areas. Please check with us if you are unsure.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how to use core counselling skills within a counselling relationship.
  • You'll study key counselling theories and how they apply in practice.
  • You'll understand the ethical framework that guides counsellors in their work.
  • You'll explore how to support people's personal well-being through structured listening and communication.
  • You'll develop self-awareness and reflective practice as a counsellor in training.

How you will learn

You'll attend classroom-based sessions at the centre during the day. Learning is delivered through tutor-led sessions, group discussion, and skills practice. Assessment is likely to include written assignments, reflective journals, and observed skills practice. The part-time timetable spreads study across two years, so you can take in new ideas at a manageable pace.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University and Professional Development Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Support worker, helping people through personal difficulties day to day.
  • Care assistant, providing emotional as well as practical support to clients.
  • Youth support worker, working with young people facing challenges.
  • SEN teaching assistant, supporting pupils with additional needs in school.
  • Teaching assistant, working alongside teachers in classroom settings.
  • Adult educator, facilitating learning and personal development for adults.
  • Counselling volunteer, gaining supervised experience in a charity or community setting.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Counselling, the next step if you want to work toward becoming a practising counsellor.
  • Level 3 Award in Education and Training, useful if you want to move into teaching or training roles.
  • Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care, if you want to develop a broader care career alongside your counselling knowledge.

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