Becoming A UK Counsellor
Becoming a counsellor can be a deeply rewarding journey for those passionate about helping others. Whether you're starting fresh or considering a career change, understanding the UK education and certification process is key. Here, you will learn how to become a counsellor, including minimum education requirements, the steps to complete professional training, and how to gain practical experience and start your career. For mental health support as you pursue this career path, consider connecting with a therapist in your local area or online.
An overview of psychotherapy in the UK
How to become a counsellor
Step 1: Begin the field's required degree, diploma, or certificate
In general, there is no minimum educational requirement to become a counsellor. You can complete your core practitioner training with or without a university degree to become a counselling professional. This makes counselling a highly accessible career path for individuals from diverse educational and professional backgrounds. The following are common pathways to a career in counselling:
- A-levels or equivalent: While not mandatory, pursuing A-levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects like psychology, sociology, or health can be beneficial for progressing to advanced counselling training. Upon completion of secondary school, you may choose to enroll in an accredited counselling course or pursue a university degree in counselling or psychology.
- Introduction to counselling courses: Many aspiring counsellors start with short college courses, such as an Introduction to Counselling or a Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills. These courses are commonly offered at colleges and adult education centers. These courses are an opportunity to gain basic counselling skills and theoretical knowledge and are a common route taken by those transitioning from a different profession or exploring a new career path.
- Accredited college courses: A Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is generally considered the standard qualification for becoming a professional counsellor in the UK for those without a relevant university degree. This qualification may take around a year part-time to complete. Your course should ideally be accredited by the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
- University courses: Another option is to pursue a degree in counselling, psychology, or a related field. Degree programs offer in-depth knowledge of psychological theories, counselling techniques, and mental health practices, as well as opportunities for supervised placements.
Step 2: Register with a professional body
Step 3: Complete the required hours of supervised practice
Most accredited college and university courses require students to complete a minimum of 100 hours of supervised practice. This involves working directly with clients under the guidance of an experienced supervisor, allowing you to apply what you’ve learned during your course to real-life situations.
These placements often take place in settings like schools, charities, and community centers. Note that it can be challenging to become a student or secure a placement, as opportunities are typically limited and highly competitive as they are how individuals can progress in this career path. It’s advisable to start searching early, network within the counselling community, and reach out to potential organizations proactively.
Step 4: Begin your career
Once you have completed your counselling training course and supervision period, you will be considered fully qualified and can begin your career as a counsellor. Many counsellors begin their careers in entry-level counselling positions, such as the following:
- School counsellor: Supporting students with emotional, social, and academic challenges in educational settings
- Charity counsellor: Providing counselling services for organizations that focus on mental health, addiction, or community support
- NHS counsellor: Working in primary care or specialist settings, often focusing on brief interventions like CBT
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) counsellor: Offering support to employees experiencing work-related or personal issues
- Community counsellor: Assisting individuals in community centers or local mental health initiatives
- Helpline counsellor: Providing immediate emotional support via phone or online chat for crisis or support services
- Independent practice assistant: Supporting an established counsellor or practice while building experience and a client base
As you gain experience, you may choose to pursue a specialization or advanced qualifications, establish an independent practice, or become professionals in areas such as supervision, teaching, or research. These paths allow you to deepen your expertise, expand career opportunities, and make a greater impact on how you advance your career.
Step 5: Continue professional development
Continuing professional development (CPD) is essential to stay updated on best practices, new counselling techniques, and emerging trends. As a member of a professional body, you will be required to complete a certain number of CPD hours each year to maintain your registration. CPD activities might include attending workshops, conferences, and advanced training courses or engaging in peer supervision.
Your CPD requirements can also be an opportunity to pursue further training and specialize in an area of interest, such as trauma therapy, addiction counselling, or child counselling. This can be helpful in terms of advancing your career, as finding a niche in the industry can help you attract clients whose needs align with your expertise, setting you up for long-term professional growth.
If you are experiencing trauma, support is available. Please see our Get Help Now page for more resources.
Professional associations
While joining a professional association like the BACP or UKCP is not legally required to practice counselling, it is usually a requirement of accredited training courses, and most employers expect you to be registered with a professional body. Consider joining one of the following organizations:
- British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)
- United Kingdom Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)
- National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society (NCPS)
Key skills
Successful counsellors rely on a range of essential skills and personal qualities to effectively support clients and maintain professional standards. These skills are developed through training, practice, and self-reflection. Key counselling skills include those listed below:
- Active listening: Ensuring clients sense they are heard and understood without judgment
- Empathy: Connecting with clients’ emotions to build trust and rapport
- Communication skills: Clearly expressing thoughts while encouraging openness
- Problem-solving abilities: Helping clients identify solutions to their challenges
- Emotional resilience: Managing your own feelings to maintain professionalism
- Self-awareness: Reflecting on your biases and behavior to improve interactions
- Ethical practice: Upholding discretion, respect, and boundaries at all times
Costs and funding options
The cost of becoming a counsellor varies depending on the level of training pursued. There are many courses available, so it’s advisable to research your options thoroughly and find one that suits your budget. Consider the following estimates:
- Introductory courses may range from £200 to £500.
- Advanced diplomas might cost between £2,500 to £4,000.
- University degrees in counselling may cost up to £9,250 per year for tuition.
Funding options might include government loans for degree programs, scholarships, and bursaries offered by some institutions. Many students also finance their studies through part-time work or savings. Exploring local charities or professional organizations for financial support may be another way to offset the costs of training.
Mental health support for career changes
Whether you are changing careers or just starting out as a student, navigating these changes can be mentally taxing. It’s not uncommon to experience stress, anxiety, or uncertainty, making mental health support an important consideration. In fact, research suggests that mental health professionals can experience significant personal and professional benefits from attending therapy themselves.
With BetterHelp, you can attend personal therapy sessions by phone, video call, or live chat, plus benefit from a range of tools and features designed to help you get the most out of therapy, including guided journaling, digital therapy worksheets, group sessions, and the option for daily messaging with your counsellor. Research suggests that online therapy is just as effective as in-person therapy.
Takeaway
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy?
The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) is a professional body that sets standards for counselling and psychotherapy. It accredits training courses, supports members with resources and professional development, and ensures ethical practice in the field.
What is the Certificate in Counselling Skills?
A Certificate in Counselling Skills is an introductory qualification that teaches fundamental skills like active listening, empathy, and communication. It’s ideal for those exploring counselling as a career or wanting to enhance interpersonal skills for personal or professional use.
What qualifications do I need to work in mental health?
To work in mental health counselling, you typically need a Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling or a related qualification. Additional requirements include supervised practice and often membership with a professional body like the BACP.
What's the average salary for counselling professionals?
In general, a counselor in the UK receives a starting salary ranging from £20,000 to £26,000. More experienced counsellors may earn between £30,000 and £40,000, and specialized professionals can earn even more. Many counselors work with independent training organisations or other faith-based organisations to complete their core training. Training involves ongoing supervision and adhering to entry requirements and internationally recognised standards before counselors can begin independent work.
Are there differences between a therapist & counsellor?
In general, a therapist provides longer-term care and delves deeper into clients’ past experiences and core beliefs. A counsellor usually offers shorter-term assistance and more solution-focused treatment. Both therapists and counsellors can help clients with relationship difficulties and individual challenges on a one-to-one basis in a safe and discreet environment.
- Previous Article
- Next Article