Level 4 Therapeutic Counselling Course in Leyland. Classes run at Runshaw College one day a week, so you can fit study around other commitments. An Advanced Learner Loan may be available to cover course fees. Contact Runshaw College directly for details. To join, you'll need both a CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and a CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies, or equivalent training totalling at least 180 hours. The course runs over two years and prepares you to work as a therapeutic counsellor in a counselling agency, in healthcare or non-medical settings.
Who this course is for
Adults (19+). This part-time qualification gives learners the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency context. It is designed to lead to an employed or voluntary role in a counselling agency in both health care and non-medical settings. Learners with sufficient experience can also begin working as independent practitioners in private practice. The course is delivered one day a week over two years.
Entry requirements
You must have obtained both CPCAB qualifications: Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies, or their equivalent with a previous 180 hours of counselling skills training. All applicants must be at least 19 years of age. Please see the Runshaw College website for further entry requirement details.
What you will learn
You'll develop the knowledge and skills to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency setting.
You'll learn how to apply counselling theory and practice with clients in structured sessions.
You'll build competency in working within professional and ethical frameworks.
You'll understand how to support clients across healthcare and non-medical contexts.
You'll develop the skills needed to begin working as an independent practitioner in private practice, if you have sufficient experience.
How you will learn
The course is delivered in the classroom one day a week over two years. Learning combines taught sessions with supervised practice. Assessment is through a combination of written work, reflective practice, and demonstration of counselling competencies. You will also complete supervised client hours as part of your training.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Runshaw College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Counsellor in a counselling agency, healthcare or community setting
Voluntary counsellor supporting clients through a charity or non-profit
Employee assistance counsellor providing workplace mental health support
Private practice counsellor working independently with clients
School or college counsellor supporting student wellbeing
Bereavement counsellor working with individuals experiencing loss
What you could study next
BACP membership and accreditation: once you have enough supervised practice hours, you can apply for accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, which many employers and clients look for.
Level 5 or Level 6 Diploma in Psychotherapy or Counselling: for those who want to specialise further or work with more complex presentations.
Postgraduate study in counselling or psychotherapy: some universities accept this Level 4 Diploma as a route into a master's-level programme.
