Free Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online, part-time, at your own pace over 10 months. You'll need at least a Level 1 English qualification to enrol. Before you start, you'll complete a brief initial assessment so the course can be tailored to your needs. This free counselling course covers the main counselling theories, the importance of self-awareness, and how to reflect on your own values and beliefs. It's a strong starting point for a level 2 counselling qualification that opens doors in support, care, and education roles.
Who this course is for
Our accredited Counselling course at level 2 is ideal if you’re interested in starting a career in counselling and want to gain essential skills and confidence to succeed in this area. This qualification is an introduction to counselling, you will look at counselling theories, gain a understanding of the importance of self-awareness and personal emotional stability, key elements of the main theoretical approaches and begin to develop self-understanding and reflect on your own values and beliefs. This is a knowledge based introductory qualification and you won’t become a qualified Counsellor, however, successfully completion of this qualification will enable you to progress onto Level 3 counselling programmes or employment into a helping/support role.
Entry requirements
To enrol in this course, it is required that you hold a minimum level 1 qualification in English. Prior to starting the course, you will be required to complete a brief initial assessment. This will help us understand your current starting point and allow us to tailor the course to meet your specific needs.
What you will learn
You'll explore the main theoretical approaches used in counselling
You'll develop an understanding of self-awareness and personal emotional stability
You'll reflect on your own values, beliefs, and personal development
You'll study the key principles that underpin counselling practice
You'll build foundational counselling skills to use in support and care settings
How you will learn
You'll study online in your own time, working through course materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment is based on written assignments and reflective tasks that draw on what you've learned. There are no exams. Your work is submitted online and assessed against the NCFE qualification standards.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Cambridgeshire County Council will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: use counselling skills to support vulnerable adults
Care assistant: apply listening and communication skills in care settings
Teaching assistant: support students' emotional wellbeing in schools
SEN teaching assistant: work with pupils who need additional emotional support
Youth support worker: help young people navigate challenges and build resilience
Adult educator: facilitate learning for adults in community or education settings
Counselling volunteer: gain experience in a counselling or listening service
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: the next step if you want to go deeper into counselling theory and practice
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: required if you want to work as a qualified counsellor with clients
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you're moving toward a teaching or training role in adult education
