Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (EQUAL)

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Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (EQUAL)

Next Available Start Dates

5th Oct 2026 - 22nd Jan 2027 this course is delivered online Apply Now
2nd Nov 2026 - 19th Feb 2027 this course is delivered online Apply Now
4th Jan 2027 - 23rd Apr 2027 this course is delivered online Apply Now
1st Feb 2027 - 21st May 2027 this course is delivered online Apply Now
1st Mar 2027 - 18th Jun 2027 this course is delivered online Apply Now

Course Type:

Equal Course

Entry Requirements:

Learners should be able to follow written instructions in English at Level 1 and above. Learners will also need a good level of IT skills, access to a computer, laptop or tablet device with access to the internet.
There are no specific recommended prior learning requirements for this qualification, however, learners may find it helpful if they’ve already achieved the Introduction to Counselling pathway at level 1.

Course Overview

This online course is designed for those who wish to develop their use of counselling skills in everyday life and work, and some of the approaches that underpin the use of these skills.

This qualification gives learners the opportunity to investigate the knowledge and skills needed to use counselling skills and engage in a helping interaction appropriately.

This qualification is useful for anyone who would like to develop their use of counselling skills for use in either work or a personal capacity. These may be learners who wish to progress towards further qualifications or learners who wish to study this programme in order to complement other programmes (eg health and social care, children’s care, learning and development, voluntary and community work).

This qualification does not qualify learners to practise as a counsellor.

What will I learn?

All four units in this qualification are mandatory, providing you with essential knowledge and understanding in the following areas:

Unit 1: Using Counselling Skills
Learn to identify core counselling skills and understand how to apply them in a counselling relationship. Explore how to establish effective working relationships and respect the boundaries required in this sensitive role.

Unit 2: Introduction to Counselling Skills Theories
Gain an introduction to key elements of major counselling approaches, including psychodynamics, person-centred therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). Develop an understanding of the practical differences between these theories and the importance of counselling theory in practice.

Unit 3: Diversity and Ethics in the Use of Counselling Skills
Explore the concepts of diversity and ethics in counselling. Understand anti-discriminatory practice, key aspects of an ethical framework, and how to address diversity in counselling skills practice.

Unit 4: Counselling Skills and Personal Development
Focus on self-development by identifying your values, beliefs, and personal qualities. Reflect on your skills and develop greater self-awareness to enhance your counselling practice.

How is the course delivered?

The course content is designed to take up to 150 hours (12 – 14 weeks) of learning and assessment.

Learners will be given access to a comprehensive online learning platform which will provide them with detailed knowledge and information to support their successful completion of each unit.

A tutor will be assigned to the learner once enrolled, they will support you in your induction and be the point of support throughout the length of the course.

Further self-directed research is encouraged to expand learner’s understanding of key topics.

How will my learning be assessed?

Clear deadlines will be provided for each unit to ensure the qualification is completed within the set time frame.

Completion and progress on each unit is clearly identified on the learner’s online dashboard.

Learners will receive regular written feedback throughout the course including opportunities for further development.

Additional Information

You will be completing work in relation to each unit, which a range of activities and questioning to allow you to demonstrate your knowledge and understanding. You will complete this online using the online platform.

Potential Careers

Following completion of this course learners may wish to progress to the Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills.

The objectives of this qualification are to help learners to:
• Progress to similar qualifications at a higher level
• Progress to a role in which counselling skills are used.

Course Facilities

The Additional Learning Support Team work across college supporting students with a variety of learning needs in different ways.  Support can be requested at enrolment or at any point throughout your course. For more information about ALS or for support booking on to a course telephone 0333 0031717.

Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (EQUAL)