Free Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online at your own pace, with optional live workshops on Teams. This free counselling course for adults takes six weeks to complete. You'll learn how to use counselling skills ethically and safely across a range of roles and settings. The course finishes with you leading a short counselling session to put your skills into practice. It's free for people aged 19 or over living in England who meet the eligibility criteria. Note that some combined authority areas are excluded.
Who this course is for
A distance learning training course, accompanied by online workshops on Teams for those who would like to learn about the skills and competencies to use counselling skills ethically and safely in various contexts and roles. The course culminates in you leading a short counselling session putting your new-found skills into practice.
Entry requirements
Candidates must provide one of the following forms of identification:
Valid in-date passport (any nationality)
Signed in-date UK photocard driving licence
UK biometric residence permit card
Birth certificate (BUT, if a birth certificate is presented as proof of identification, an additional form of identification such as a signed bank card, utility bill or a letter issued by a government department must also be provided).
What you will learn
You'll learn the core counselling skills used to support people in a range of contexts.
You'll understand how to apply counselling skills ethically and safely.
You'll explore the boundaries and responsibilities involved in using counselling skills in professional roles.
You'll develop active listening and communication techniques.
You'll practise leading a short counselling session as part of your assessment.
How you will learn
This is a distance learning course. You study online and can join optional live workshops on Teams. The course ends with a practical element where you lead a short counselling session, putting your skills into practice. You'll need to complete the course within six weeks of starting.
What you will need to bring
You'll need to provide proof of identity before you start. Accepted documents include a valid in-date passport, a signed in-date UK photocard driving licence, a UK biometric residence permit card, or a birth certificate with an additional form of ID such as a signed bank card, utility bill, or government letter. South Essex College will confirm anything else you need before you begin.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: use counselling skills to support clients day to day.
Support worker: help people in mental health, housing, or social care settings.
Teaching assistant: support pupils' emotional wellbeing in school.
SEN teaching assistant: work with children who have additional needs.
Youth support worker: guide young people through challenges and transitions.
Adult educator: teach or mentor adults in community or college settings.
Counselling: a first step toward a career in counselling or therapy.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Counselling: the next step if you want to train as a counsellor. Most counselling training programmes require a Level 2 counselling qualification before you apply.
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.
