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
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 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.
