Free Level 3 Counselling Course. Study online at your own pace, fitting learning around your existing commitments. This free counselling course is funded by the government for adults who do not already hold a full Level 3 qualification. Over one year, you'll develop the counselling skills needed to support people through personal and emotional challenges. The course covers listening techniques, ethical practice, and the theoretical frameworks that underpin professional counselling work. It can open doors to roles in support work, education, and care.
Who this course is for
UCS College Group offers a wide range of courses across its four colleges and also offsite.
Courses cover many areas and can be used for different purposes
such as furthering personal development and career opportunities.
They can also be for recreational purposes. For individual
course details please refer to the college website or E-mail [email protected]
Entry requirements
Entry Requirements vary depending on the course, please refer to the college website or E-mail [email protected] for details.
What you will learn
You'll develop active listening and communication skills used in counselling settings.
You'll explore key counselling theories and how to apply them in practice.
You'll understand ethical boundaries and professional responsibilities in counselling work.
You'll learn how to build and maintain a supportive relationship with clients.
You'll study the impact of mental health, wellbeing, and personal development on individuals.
You'll reflect on your own values and how they influence your practice.
How you will learn
You'll study online, working through course materials at a pace that suits you. Assessment is typically through written assignments and reflective practice tasks. You'll submit work online and receive feedback from your tutor throughout the year. Contact University Centre Somerset directly to confirm the full assessment requirements for this course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. University Centre Somerset will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: helping adults manage mental health or personal challenges
Care assistant: providing emotional and practical support in care settings
Youth support worker: working with young people facing difficulties
Teaching assistant: supporting students with social or emotional needs
SEN teaching assistant: working alongside pupils with special educational needs
Adult educator: facilitating learning and personal development in community settings
Counselling assistant: supporting qualified counsellors in a professional setting
What you could study next
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the next step if you want to move toward practising as a counsellor.
Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling: a higher-level qualification recognised by professional bodies such as BACP.
Level 3 Health and Social Care Diploma: broadens your options across care and support roles if you want to work in a wider range of settings.