Level 2 Counselling Course in Poole. Evening counselling classes run at the Dolphin Centre, on Thursday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30pm. The course runs over 30 weeks, so you can fit your studies around work or other commitments. This level 2 counselling qualification builds the listening and communication skills used in support, care, and counselling roles. It covers the foundations of counselling practice and is designed for people working in, or moving into, support and care settings. 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 counselling and support work.
You'll learn how to communicate effectively with people in distress or difficulty.
You'll explore the core principles and values that underpin counselling practice.
You'll practise skills through experiential activities and group work.
You'll build self-awareness and understand how your own experiences can affect helping relationships.
You'll gain knowledge relevant to support worker, care, and teaching assistant roles.
How you will learn
Classes are classroom based, meeting one evening a week. Learning includes group discussion, experiential activities, and skills practice with other learners. Assessment is through the CPCAB awarding body and includes written work and observed practice. The course involves personal reflection as part of the learning process.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Skills & Learning Adult Community Education will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Support worker. Use counselling skills to support adults day to day.
Care assistant. Help individuals maintain their well-being and independence.
Youth support worker. Work with young people facing personal challenges.
Teaching assistant. Support pupils with emotional or social needs in school.
SEN teaching assistant. Work alongside children with special educational needs.
Adult educator. Facilitate learning in community or adult education settings.
What you could study next
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies. The next step if you want to move toward professional counselling training.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. Required to practise as a counsellor; builds on Level 3 study.
Level 3 Award in Education and Training. Useful if you want to move into teaching or training roles in the support sector.
