Level 2 Counselling Course. Study online, with evening sessions running weekly over 30 weeks. This level 2 counselling qualification builds the listening and communication skills used by people working in support, care, and helping roles. You study at your own pace around your schedule, with no need to travel to a centre. The course includes experiential activities that may involve personal reflection, so it is not suitable for anyone currently experiencing severe emotional difficulty. A fee of £479 applies, though concessions are available.
Who this course is for
This course is designed to support learners who want to work in the support and care sector. Successful completion provides the skills and knowledge needed for a range of roles that support the well-being of individuals. The course includes experiential elements that involve personal reflection and some personal disclosure. For this reason, it is not suitable for anyone currently experiencing severe emotional difficulty or psychological confusion. If a tutor feels the course is not appropriate during the early weeks, they will discuss deferring to a later date.
Previous counselling knowledge is not essential, but completing an Introduction to Counselling Skills course beforehand is strongly recommended. Learners are expected to commit fully to the course duration, including home study, assessed work, and sitting any required examinations. As this is a fast-track course, sessions are longer than usual and may include Saturday workshops, which will be confirmed during the admission session.
English language skills at Level 1 are required, and applicants will complete an online English assessment after applying. For online delivery, learners must have access to a computer rather than only a phone or tablet and should be confident using IT. All online sessions are delivered via Microsoft Teams. Learners who need to refresh their digital skills are encouraged to explore the computing and digital skills courses available on the Skills and Learning website.
What you will learn
You'll develop active listening skills used in one-to-one helping conversations.
You'll learn how to communicate empathy and build trust with the people you support.
You'll understand the ethical boundaries that apply to counselling and support work.
You'll explore how personal values and self-awareness affect your practice.
You'll gain knowledge of the core principles that underpin professional counselling practice.
You'll practise skills through experiential activities and reflective exercises.
How you will learn
The course runs online, with weekly evening sessions on Wednesdays from 17:30 to 20:30. Learning includes experiential activities, group work, and personal reflection exercises. Assessment is through the CPCAB framework, which typically involves written assignments and observed practice of counselling skills. You will build a portfolio of evidence as you progress through the course.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Poole Adult Learning Centre will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker: use counselling skills to support vulnerable adults day to day.
Care assistant: help individuals with emotional and practical needs in care settings.
Youth support worker: work with young people facing personal or social challenges.
Teaching assistant: support pupils' wellbeing and communication in school.
SEN teaching assistant: work with students who need additional emotional support.
Adult educator: facilitate learning for adults in community or education settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills: the next step if you want to deepen your counselling practice and work toward professional training.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling: required to practise as a qualified counsellor. Most professional bodies expect training at this level.
Level 3 Award in Health and Social Care: broadens your knowledge for roles across the care sector.
