Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online with Nottingham College. You can start at any time and work through the material at your own pace, which makes it easier to fit around work or other commitments. Funding may be available for this course, so fees will depend on your circumstances. Over 12 weeks, you'll explore counselling theories, core counselling skills, and how to apply them in real helping relationships. Units cover psychodynamic, person-centred, and cognitive behavioural approaches, as well as diversity and ethics in counselling practice. There are no formal entry requirements, though you must be aged 19 or over and will complete an initial assessment before you start.
Who this course is for
This qualification will help develop your knowledge and skills around counselling by looking at counselling theories, key elements of the main theoretical approaches and will help you to develop self-understanding and reflect on your own values and beliefs.
Entry requirements
There are no formal entry requirements but you must be aged 19+.
Please note: All students will need to complete an Initial Assessment before being enrolled onto the course.
What you will learn
You'll identify core counselling skills and understand how they are used in a counselling relationship.
You'll learn how to establish an effective working relationship and recognise appropriate professional boundaries.
You'll explore the key elements of psychodynamic, person-centred, and cognitive behavioural therapy approaches.
You'll develop self-understanding and reflect on your own values and beliefs in a counselling context.
You'll gain an understanding of anti-discriminatory practice and ethical frameworks in counselling.
You'll learn ways to address diversity when using counselling skills with different people.
How you will learn
You study entirely online and can start at any time. Learning is delivered through online materials covering three units: using counselling skills, counselling theories, and diversity and ethics. You will complete an initial assessment before enrolment so the course can be matched to your level. Assessment is unit-based, drawing on the knowledge and skills covered in each unit.
What you will need to bring
Nottingham College will confirm anything you need before you start. You will need reliable internet access and a device to study online.
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.
Youth support worker: help young people with personal and emotional challenges.
Teaching assistant: support pupils' wellbeing alongside classroom learning.
SEN teaching assistant: work with students who need additional emotional support.
Adult educator: facilitate learning in community or further education settings.
Counselling: a first step toward a career in counselling or talking therapies.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate or Diploma in Counselling: the next step if you want to move toward practising as a counsellor. Most Level 3 counselling courses require a Level 2 counselling qualification as an entry condition.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you want to move into teaching or training roles in health, social care, or community settings.
Level 3 Diploma in Health and Social Care: broadens your options across care and support work.
