Free Level 2 Counselling Course Online – Learning Curve

CostFREE
Duration7 weeks
LevelLevel 2
DeliveryOnline
StartFlexible
Awarding bodyNCFE awarding body

About this course

Free Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your other commitments. The course typically takes 7 weeks to complete. You'll cover core counselling skills, counselling theory, and the ethical framework that guides how those skills are used in practice. No previous qualifications are needed to enrol. This free counselling course for adults is open to anyone aged 19 or over who lives in England. Note: this is an introductory counselling qualification. Further study is needed to reach accredited counsellor status.

Who this course is for

1.83 million referrals were made for counselling through the NHS in 2023-24. People may find counselling helpful at different points in their lives, including for their mental health, experiencing bereavement or loss, processing significant life events, or overcoming trauma. This course can be used as a foundation if you are looking to progress towards accredited counsellor status, however, having an understanding of counselling skills isn't just relevant for people looking to become an accredited counsellor, these skills would also be useful for managers to provide better mental health support for their teams.

Please note this course does not provide accredited counsellor status, this is an introductory course and further study would be required if you are looking to progress towards accredited counsellor status.

Entry requirements

There are no previous qualifications required to complete this qualification. This is an entry level qualification aimed to build your skills and knowledge.

What you will learn

  • You'll learn how core counselling skills are used in a counselling relationship and in other helping activities.
  • You'll explore how counselling theory underpins the use of counselling skills in practice.
  • You'll understand the ethical framework that informs how counsellors apply their skills.
  • You'll reflect on how to develop your own counselling skills and qualities going forward.
  • You'll gain knowledge to support people's mental wellbeing in a range of settings.

How you will learn

You'll study entirely online through flexible learning materials you can access in your own time. The course is made up of four units covering counselling skills, theory, ethics, and personal development. Assessment is based on the work you complete through the course units. There are no exams. You'll need your National Insurance number, a form of identification, employment documents, and details of your previous qualifications to enrol.

What you will need to bring

To enrol you'll need your National Insurance number, a form of identification, employment documents, and details of any previous qualifications. Learning Curve will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Support worker: use counselling skills to support people through difficult times.
  • Care assistant: help clients with emotional as well as practical needs.
  • Youth support worker: support young people's mental health and wellbeing.
  • Teaching assistant or SEN teaching assistant: apply listening and communication skills in school settings.
  • Adult educator: support learners who may face personal or emotional barriers.
  • Counselling volunteer: build experience in a counselling or listening service.

What you could study next

  • Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Counselling: the next step if you want to progress toward accredited counsellor status. Most accrediting bodies require study at Level 3 or above.
  • Level 3 Award in Mental Health in the Workplace: useful if you want to support colleagues or clients in a workplace setting.
  • Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma: broadens your skills for roles in care, support work, or community services.

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