Please note: Applications for September 2025 are now closed. The next intake will be in January 2026, with applications opening in Autumn 2025.
This two-year Level 4 Diploma in Counselling is designed to equip you with the professional skills and theoretical foundations needed to work as a Counselling Practitioner in both agency settings and private practice. This programme follows an integrative humanistic approach, blending Person-Centred Theory, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Transactional Analysis.
Led by experienced, practicing counsellors, the course emphasises ethical practice, self-awareness and student growth. Learning is enriched through interactive group work, reflective journaling and peer support. The diploma is fully validated by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB).
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What will I learn?
Youll engage in real-world counselling experience through agency placements, completing a minimum of 100 supervised client hours. The course also includes two residential weekends, one in each year, to deepen your learning and practice.
Throughout the programme, you'll maintain reflective journals, build a personal portfolio and participate in 40 hours of personal therapy to support your development.
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Example modules
There are seven mandatory modules:
- Unit 1 - Working ethically, safely and professionally as a counsellor.
- Unit 2 - Working within a counselling relationship.
- Unit 3 - Working with client diversity in counselling work.
- Unit 4 - Working within a user-centred approach to counselling.
- Unit 5 - Working with self-awareness in the counselling process.
- Unit 6 - Working within a coherent framework of counselling theory and skills.
- Unit 7 - Working self-reflectively as a counsellor.
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How will I be assessed?
Assessment is ongoing and varied to support different learning styles. Methods include:
- Reflective journals
- Case studies
- Taped counselling skills sessions
- Tutor and peer feedback
- Short essays and written assignments
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Entry Requirements
You will need to have CPCAB Counselling Studies Level 3 (or equivalent). You will be required to take part in a selection process and references will be taken up.
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Progression & Career Opportunities
Level 5 qualifications including a Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Psychotherapeutic Counselling and somatic working. Upon completion of the course you will be able to become a Practicing Counsellor in an agency setting.
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Additional Information
Students will need:
- Core textbooks (£20£60 each)
- Personal therapy (min. 40 hours over 2 years)
- Clinical supervision (if not agency-provided): £30£70 per session
- Student membership of the BACP
- Student insurance
- There will be a compulsory residential weekend in Year 1 and Year 2, the cost of the residential will be confirmed in year once the date and location are confirmed.
