Level 2 Counselling Course in Dorchester. Evening counselling classes run at Dorchester Library and Learning Centre on Tuesday evenings, 5:30 to 8:30pm. The course runs for 30 weeks, from September 2026 to May 2027, so you can fit your studies around work or other commitments. You'll develop the listening and communication skills used in support, care, and counselling roles. The course covers the foundations of counselling practice and includes experiential activities. Note: this course is not suitable for anyone currently experiencing severe emotional difficulty or psychological confusion.
Who this course is for
We have designed this course to support you in working within the support and care sector. Completing the course will give you the skills and knowledge needed for roles that help promote individual well-being. You can explore suitable career paths on the National Careers Service website: https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/.
This course is not suitable for anyone experiencing severe emotional difficulty or psychological confusion. It includes experiential activities that may involve personal reflection. If your tutor feels the course is not appropriate for you in the early weeks, they may recommend deferring to a later date.
No prior counselling skills are required, though completing the Introduction to Counselling Skills course is recommended.
By enrolling, you are expected to commit fully to the course duration, home study, assessed work, and any examinations. Please consider your readiness for study; our study support toolbox may help: https://www.skillsandlearningace.com/toolbox/.
For online courses, you will need a computer (not just a phone or tablet) and basic IT confidence. Classes are delivered via Microsoft Teams. You can refresh your skills by visiting the Computing and Digital Skills section of our website.
A minimum of Level 1 English is required. You will complete an online English assessment after applying. This course is for learners aged 19 and over.
What you will learn
You'll develop active listening skills used in counselling and support work.
You'll learn how to communicate empathetically and non-judgementally.
You'll explore the foundations of professional counselling practice.
You'll understand how to promote individual well-being in a support or care context.
You'll take part in experiential activities that develop self-awareness and personal insight.
You'll build skills relevant to roles in care, education, and community support.
How you will learn
Classes are held in person at Dorchester Library and Learning Centre. Learning is a mix of taught sessions and experiential group activities. Assessment is through coursework and practical skills demonstration. You'll be assessed on your understanding of counselling skills and your ability to apply them.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Dorchester Library and Learning Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Care assistant: supporting individuals in residential or community settings.
Support worker: helping people with mental health, learning, or social needs.
Youth support worker: working with young people in community or school settings.
Teaching assistant or SEN teaching assistant: supporting pupils with additional needs.
Adult educator: facilitating learning in community or adult education settings.
Counselling: a step toward further training and a counselling role.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: deepens your practice and is often required before entering a counselling diploma.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: the qualification most counsellors need to practise professionally.
Level 3 Award or Certificate in Health and Social Care: broadens your options in care and support roles.
Level 3 Teaching Assistant qualifications: if you want to develop your role in education.
