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).

Course Information

  • Course Type Part-Time Course
  • Study Mode Classroom Based
  • Course Code PCOU1L4DP
  • Start September
  • Length 72 weeks
  • Level Level 4
  • Campus
    Aylesbury
  • 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.

  • 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.
  • What will I learn?

    You’ll 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.

  • Additional Information
    Students will need: * Core textbooks (£20 to £60 each) * Personal therapy (min. 40 hours over 2 years) * Clinical supervision (if not agency-provided): £30 to £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.
  • Progression

    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.

  • How am I 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

Upcoming Events

21 January

Amersham

Open Event

Wednesday

Register for this event

27 January

Wycombe

Open Event

Tuesday

Register for this event

29 January

Aylesbury

Open Event

Thursday

Register for this event

More Courses

    • Aylesbury

    Introduction to Counselling Skills

    Part-Time Course

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    • Aylesbury

    Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CPCAB)

    Part-Time Course

    Read more & Apply
    • Aylesbury

    Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CPCAB)

    Part-Time Course

    Read more & Apply
    • Aylesbury

    Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (CPCAB)

    Part-Time Course

    Read more & Apply

Got a
question?

Whether you’ve got a question about applying, want to partner with us, need support during your studies, or simply want to speak to someone at your local campus, we’re ready to help you take your next step.

Aylesbury

Oxford Road
Aylesbury

Buckinghamshire

HP21 8PD

01296 588 588

Mon - Fri

8:30am - 5pm

Wycombe

Spring Lane, Flackwell Heath
High Wycombe
Buckinghamshire

HP10 9HE

01494 585 555

Mon - Fri
8:30am - 5pm

Amersham

Stanley Hill

Amersham
Buckinghamshire
HP7 9HN

01494 585 273

Mon - Fri

8:30am - 5pm