Free Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your existing commitments. This free counselling course typically takes 8 to 12 weeks to complete. You'll explore counselling theories, the main therapeutic approaches, and how to use core counselling skills in a helping relationship. The course also encourages self-reflection on your own values and beliefs. For Unit 4, you'll need to demonstrate your skills through a video recording or with an appropriate witness. Note: this level 2 counselling qualification is not accredited by BACP, so check entry requirements if you plan to progress to a Level 3 course with another provider. TQUK Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills with certificate.
Who this course is for
This course is aimed at anybody who wants to expand their knowledge of the skills needed to counsel effectively. To complete the Unit 4 assessment, you will need to demonstrate how you can use core counselling skills in a helping relationship. In order to be assessed carrying out this task, you must demonstrate particular skills via either; a video recording submission, or an appropriate witness will be needed to observe you demonstrating the skills and completing a witness statement.
Entry requirements
To be eligible for funding, you must live in England and have resided in the UK or EU/EEA for the last 3 years, must be aged 19 or over, must not have previously studied the course you are applying for or another similar course and must not currently be enrolled on another government-funded education programme. If you are aged between 19 and 23 - you must hold a full level 2 qualification If you're not eligible for funding, you can purchase the course online if you are over the age of 16.
What you will learn
You'll explore the key theories that underpin counselling practice.
You'll examine the main theoretical approaches used in counselling.
You'll develop self-understanding and reflect on your own values and beliefs.
You'll learn how to use core counselling skills in a helping relationship.
You'll practise demonstrating counselling skills in a structured assessment context.
How you will learn
All learning is delivered through online materials, which you work through at your own pace. Assessment is completed online. For Unit 4, you must demonstrate core counselling skills in a helping relationship. You can do this by submitting a video recording of yourself, or by having an appropriate witness observe you and complete a witness statement. An appropriate witness is someone with relevant experience, knowledge, or qualifications in counselling skills.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. The Skills Network will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: use counselling skills to support people day to day.
Care assistant: help clients in care settings with empathy and communication.
Teaching assistant: support pupils' wellbeing alongside classroom learning.
SEN teaching assistant: work with pupils who have additional needs.
Youth support worker: provide guidance and support to young people.
Adult educator: teach or facilitate learning in community or adult education settings.
Counselling support roles: assist qualified counsellors in voluntary or charity settings.
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. Check that your chosen provider accepts this TQUK qualification as a precursor, as some Level 3 providers require a BACP-accredited Level 2.
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: broadens your options in care and support work.
