Free Level 2 Counselling Skills course in Lambeth. Evening classes run at Lambeth College Clapham Campus, so you can fit study around work or other commitments. Sessions are highly practical, using exercises and role play to build self-awareness and the skills needed for supportive, helping roles. You'll explore how to engage with people seeking help, developing the personal qualities that underpin effective counselling work. The course runs over 18 weeks part-time. Entry requires GCSE English at grade C/4 or above (or Level 2 English) and GCSE Maths at grade E/2 or above (or Level 1 Maths).
Who this course is for
Developing effective skills in counselling is not solely about academic ability; it centres on learning how to engage in supportive interactions with individuals seeking help. This course emphasises practical counselling skills, personal qualities, and self-awareness, preparing you to work in various helping roles.Your study sessions will be highly practical, including exercises and role play, often in groups of three (helper, helpee, and observer). Key topics include developing self-awareness, understanding listening barriers, showing empathy, mastering body language, exploring ethics and boundaries, addressing prejudice and stereotypes, giving and receiving feedback, and participating in group work and discussions. You�ll also complete a weekly learning review.This course is ideal for those seeking competence in counselling skills for use in voluntary or employed roles or as a first step toward a career in counselling. While this course does not qualify you as a counsellor, it equips you with valuable skills for roles like key working, care assistant, support worker, or teaching assistant, across fields such as mental health, homelessness, substance misuse, education, and health and social care. Classes run every Thursday over 18 weeks, with options for daytime (9:00 am - 3:00 pm) or afternoon/evening sessions (3:30 pm - 9:00 pm), making it a flexible choice for those with work or family commitments.
Entry requirements
GCSE English (or equivalent) at grade C/4 or above, or Level 2 English.* GCSE Maths (or equivalent) at grade E/2 or above, or Level 1 Maths.Recommended prerequisites:* At least 22 years old with four years of independent adult life experience* Openness to self-awareness work in relation to others* Completion of an introductory course in counselling (30 hours) or relevant occupational experience in a related role, either employed or voluntary
What you will learn
You'll develop self-awareness and learn how it shapes supportive interactions.
You'll practise active listening and communication skills through structured role play.
You'll learn how to engage with individuals who are seeking help.
You'll explore the personal qualities that underpin effective counselling work.
You'll build skills in observing and reflecting on helping conversations.
You'll work in small group exercises, taking on helper, helpee, and observer roles.
How you will learn
Learning is classroom based and highly practical. Sessions include group exercises and role play, typically in groups of three, covering helper, helpee, and observer roles. You'll reflect on your own responses and develop self-awareness alongside practical skills. Assessment is based on your participation and demonstrated skills throughout the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Lambeth College Clapham Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: use counselling skills in day-to-day client support.
Care assistant: apply listening and communication skills in care settings.
Youth support worker: help young people navigate challenges and decisions.
SEN teaching assistant: support pupils with additional needs in school.
Teaching assistant: assist learners who need emotional or pastoral support.
Adult educator: work with adults in community or learning settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: deepens your practice and is a recognised step toward professional counselling training.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the qualification most professional counsellors hold; required for accreditation with bodies such as BACP.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training: useful if you want to move into teaching or training roles in the helping professions.
