Level 4 Therapeutic Counselling Course in Richmond upon Thames. Classes run at Parkshot, part-time during the day. The course runs over 70 weeks and prepares you to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency setting. You'll build professional competencies alongside 100 hours of supervised client placement work, developing your self-reflection and ability to work with diverse clients. Entry requires a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies gained within the last three years, GCSE Grade 4/C in English or equivalent, and a successful interview.
Who this course is for
Are you ready to take the next step in your counselling career? The BACP-approved Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is a two-year, part-time qualification designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and competencies to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency setting. You will develop your adaptive self-reflection and peer engagement alongside your professional competencies, guided by an experienced tutor. The supervised placement of 100 client hours enables you to work with diverse clients to increase your confidence as a skilled practitioner. An amazing progression opportunity for those seeking to develop their career and practice in an employed or voluntary role in healthcare and non-medical settings.
Entry requirements
To join this course, you need to meet the following requirements: A Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (or equivalent) gained within the last three years. GCSE Grade 4/C in English (or equivalent). A successful interview with a course tutor and a piece of free writing to assess academic writing ability. A tutor reference from your Level 3 course on headed paper. Your attendance record from Level 3. The ability to work with difference and diversity. Personal qualities of imaginatio
What you will learn
You'll develop the knowledge and skills to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency setting.
You'll build adaptive self-reflection and peer engagement skills alongside your professional competencies.
You'll complete 100 hours of supervised client placement, working with a diverse range of clients.
You'll strengthen your academic writing and ability to engage critically with counselling theory.
You'll develop your capacity to work with difference and diversity in a counselling context.
How you will learn
Classes run in a classroom setting at Parkshot. You'll learn through tutor-guided sessions, peer engagement, and self-reflective practice. Assessment includes a supervised placement of 100 client hours alongside coursework. You'll also complete a piece of free writing as part of the entry process to assess academic writing ability. Fees cover tuition, exams, materials, and assessment.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Parkshot will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Therapeutic counsellor: work with clients in an agency or charity setting.
Counsellor: support individuals through mental health and personal challenges.
Student counsellor: provide counselling support in schools or colleges.
Bereavement counsellor: specialise in supporting people through loss.
Workplace counsellor: deliver employee assistance and wellbeing support.
What you could study next
Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapy and Counselling: deepen your clinical practice and work toward BACP accreditation as an individual counsellor.
Level 6 or degree-level counselling qualifications: some universities offer top-up routes for those holding a Level 4 Diploma, leading to a full counselling degree.
BACP membership and accreditation: once you have sufficient post-qualification practice hours, you can apply for individual accreditation with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.
