Free Level 2 Counselling Skills course in Lambeth. Classes run at Lambeth College Clapham Campus, part-time during the day, over 18 weeks. Sessions are highly practical, using exercises and role play to build the listening and communication skills used in helping roles. You'll explore self-awareness, supportive interaction, and how to respond to people who need help. 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 active listening and communication skills used in supportive conversations.
You'll practise counselling techniques through role play as helper, helpee, and observer.
You'll build self-awareness and understand how your personal qualities affect helping relationships.
You'll learn how to engage with individuals who are seeking help or support.
You'll explore ethical boundaries and responsible practice in helping roles.
You'll reflect on your own responses and develop greater emotional awareness.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom-based and highly practical. You'll take part in structured exercises and role play, typically working in groups of three, taking turns as helper, helpee, and observer. This gives you direct experience of counselling interactions and the chance to reflect on your own practice with feedback from peers.
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: communicate more effectively with people in your care
Youth support worker: help young people through structured supportive conversations
SEN teaching assistant: support pupils with additional emotional or communication needs
Teaching assistant: apply listening and communication skills in classroom settings
Adult educator: work with learners who need additional pastoral support
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: the next step if you want to deepen your practice and work toward professional counselling training.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: required by most professional bodies for practitioner status; typically follows Level 3 study.
Level 3 Award or Certificate in Health and Social Care: broadens your options across care and support roles.
