What Qualifications Are Needed?

Author: Anna Martin

Before selecting a Counselling qualification it is worth considering your personal and vocational strengths, along with previous academic achievements. Many graduates end up following a career that has no reflection on their course of specialisation. Understanding that certain types of profession require a particular qualification will help you define your career choice more easily.

Before applying for a study course always research and carefully check the entry requirements. Some Counselling courses require that you complete a foundation or introductory course of study before embarking on more in-depth training. There may also be an age restriction, depending on the particular course you are interested in. Details of all the current counselling courses available will help you make an informed choice, and will provide you with all the information you will require about the course you are interested in studying.

Tools of the Trade

Qualifications are tools that help you to understand and do the work you have chosen to do, in the most effective and productive way. Counselling is made up of many specialist fields, so it is important that you select the correct course of study, that leads to the required qualification, in the field you would like to specialise in.

In order to select the ideal counselling course for you, take your time researching any relevant courses, career and occupational information and options available. Taking time to research, before embarking on a course of study, with ensure you select the ideal specialisation for your requirements.

At present in the UK however, no minimum qualifications are required to practise as a Counsellor.

Counselling Approach Finder

Describe what a client brings to you and find out which counselling approach is most evidence based for their situation.

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Degree or Diploma?

If you prefer to learn, with an emphasis on theoretical knowledge, and enjoy research and basic scientific methods, a degree would be the ideal choice for you. A degree will prepare you for a particular professional occupation, like that of a psychologist.

If your focus is on a more practical level, a diploma could be the best choice for you. Diplomas offer training for specific careers. If you are simply looking to improve your skills and knowledge, in a specific field or area of study, a certificate, or short learning course, is also worth considering.

If you already have a degree you may consider a Masters qualification. Some counselling courses however, may require that you complete an Introductory course in the relevant subject.

Your situation may be slightly different. ask a question below ↓ and our editorial team will reply with our advice.

Accreditation

Many employers, and clients, require that a counsellor is accredited. A professional qualification, and accreditation, that is recognised by a professional body like the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) will stand you in good stead when researching career openings.

In-depth training courses will reward you with an accreditation certificate. This type of course usually requires at least one full year of study, or two to three years of part-time study. A period of supervised placement is also a requirement.

Further Qualifications

Once you have gained a Counselling accreditation you may decide that you would like to continue learning and developing your skills. Many specialist areas of counselling offer training to those professionals who already work in a relevant field. You can however, add a specialist qualification to training you have already gained on a substantial training course.

The Next Step

Now that you have read through the advice above, you might want to put it into practice. Our Counselling Approach Finder lets you describe what a client brings to you and find out which counselling approach is most evidence based for their situation. Try it now →

83 questions

Ask The Counsellors Guide a Question

Sam 15/12/2020 at 3:34 pm

Hello, I am a qualified teacher and have worked in the education sector for twelve years. My experiences ranges from working with mainstream, SEND and SEMH pupils. I have always been drawn to the children who present with Social Emotional and Mental Health needs and I am currently working in an SEMH school. With my experience and qualification, which is the best route to take towards becoming a counsellor?

Cyndy 17/10/2020 at 9:11 pm

Hi ,
I’m a retired Deputy Head of alternative education provision and special education consultant . Have experience of counseling mentoring informally with young people . Have taught in all key stages of education for over 30 years . I am interested in transferring my skills into counseling sector . What qualification should I take so I can set up as a counselor / life coach for young people please . Best wishes, Cyndy Humphreys

Becky 17/05/2020 at 6:39 pm

Hi, I've been teaching in primary schools for over 24 years and have a B Ed Hons. I was wondering what would I need to do to become a child counselor with or without a part time job?
Thanks

Shaeney 14/03/2020 at 3:03 pm

I have a BA (HONS) in Primary Education and 20 years experience as a primary teacher.
What would I need to study to be a qualified children counsellor?

Donna 05/02/2020 at 12:21 pm

Morning, I have completed the diploma in counselling and psychotherapy am a member of the BACP! I have owned and taught at my own business for 12 years which I also gained a foundation degree in early years. I would like to start up as a training school to teach level 2 and 3 in counselling skills. What are the qualifications for this and also I want to offer my course as being accredited by a recognised company what are the requirements for this. Thanks

Mohamed 04/12/2019 at 6:12 pm

I did Diploma in psychological Counselling and also I'm a Motivational Speaker. I completed my counselling feild practice. Now a days I'm seeking a this field related job opportunity. What kind of job vacancies are available and please let me soon. Thank you

Duffs 15/11/2019 at 2:58 pm

I have a teaching degree BA(ed) and have been in teaching for 30 years. I have been in pastoral care as a house parent in two boarding schools for 18 years. I would like to change career path and become a school counsellor to use my experience helping students in this area. What would be my training needs to complete this change of career. Thank you Jamie

Ellie 17/09/2019 at 5:59 pm

I've got level 2 |3 certificate in counselling skills what else do I needs to get into counselling .
Eleanor Ryan

Tuesday 29/08/2019 at 2:07 pm

Hello - I have been a high school teacher for 13 years with a first degree in history and a Pgce, I have recently completed a level 2 certificate in an introduction to counselling skills - what course/qualification would be suitable for me? Many thanks

Deb 03/07/2019 at 4:57 pm

Hi
I have a diploma in health and social care, level 3 and would like to know if this would enable me to enter a counciling diploma at a higher level. If you could provide any feed back, regards courses etc it would be very much appreciated
Thank you

Annie 12/06/2019 at 6:43 pm

Hi, I've been teaching for 18 years and a Headteacher for 7 of those. What to trading as a councillor. I have a BA in primary education and the national professional qualification for headship. I would like to train in cognitive behavioural therapy, and be a registered counsellor. What route/ trading do you suggest. I would like the quickest route, doing 100 hours on job training and working to support myself too.thank you.

JG’s 11/06/2019 at 2:14 am

Hi I have level 1 & 2 counselling and level 1 in self harm counselling and a degree in health.
What qualifications do I need to become a young persons counsellor please.

I also have 20 years experience in working with children in care.
Thanks

Veena 25/03/2019 at 2:12 pm

Hello ,
Am Dr. Naveena from India who is dealing with care of Developmental and Behavioural Child health . I am looking for counselling skills specific for special needs children and family .
Will it be possible for you to provide me any online accredited courses that I can apply to upgrade the counselling skills ? I am quite confused in choosing the right course for my situation.
Looking forward to get some valuable feedback .

Em 04/03/2019 at 12:26 pm

Hi,

I've been a primary school teacher for 21 years and am in my third year of study for a level 4 diploma in counselling and psychotherapy, which includes 100 supervised placement hours.

What would I need to do next, to be able to work as a school counsellor?

Thank you.

Katie 03/01/2019 at 1:43 pm

Hi,

I am wondering what organisations offer clinical supervised placements? Thanks

Lucy 20/09/2018 at 8:53 pm

Hi, I was wondering if I would be able to do a councilling course with Health and Social Care diploma level 3 and extended diploma?

Dom 13/09/2018 at 3:37 am

Hi
I am 46 and have been a Primary school teacher for 15 years and a Secondary History teacher for 4 years.
I am considering becoming a school counselor and would like to know what I would need to do.
I haVe a Bachelors degree in History and a PGCE.

Thank you in advance

Bb 14/08/2018 at 10:38 pm

Hi I have a degree in psychology and have been working in primary schools as a teaching assistant and as a practitioner in Nurseries. I have decided to go in to counselling but was wondering if a one year level 3/4 course would be enough and if not what are the best steps for me.
Thank you.

Kaz 14/06/2018 at 12:00 am

Hi, I have recently finished a level 4 diploma in counselling. I received a distinction on the course, and a part of the qualifications was a 12 week placement working with teenagers with a variety of problems. I have been looking at doing voluntary work to try and gain further experience, but it's been proving tricky! How many hours of voluntary counselling do I need to become recognized as a child/young adult counsellor? How do I then proceed in gaining accreditation from BACP, or any other accredited counselling body? Kind Regards.

Lyndy 24/05/2018 at 9:08 am

I have a BA Hons in applied social sciences and have been working in mental health as a manager for over 14 years I would like to start a career in counselling, what study path would be the best?

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 19/04/2018 at 11:07 am

You have quite a high level of skill at NVQ level three. Much depends upon what area you wish to specialise in, if any and try to follow that route. The gov.uk link here gives a little more information with regards to career path progression. A HNC is a good qualification to have if you wish to move into construction proper.

Dave 18/04/2018 at 9:28 am

I have just completed my level 3 diploma in carpentry and joinery and want to further my studies wot. is the next best choice for me h n c ? Or do I need to do any other courses ?

Casbah 02/04/2018 at 2:48 pm

I have a friend, they are currently working as a therapist\advisor, for a national charity, they have worked in their current job for 6 years giving one to one support, altogether they have 20 years experience in a social care, local authority and mental health setting, they have a degree in psychology and a post graduate in applied systemic theory and is trusted and respected by their peers.

They are however now looking to gain a full counselling qualification on a BACP registered course at a London establishment.

My question is does anyone have advice on what course is best for someone that has 20 years experience working in a social care, local authority and mental health setting.

All the best

Richard

GeorgiaO Editor 15/03/2018 at 10:21 am

@Kim - the natural progession is to apply to access year two of the HND in Counselling. Backed up with some voluntary work, this should get you back into the profession.

Kim 14/03/2018 at 12:20 pm

Hey there. I have a HNC in counselling that was completed in 2014 and I'm now looking at getting back into my studies. I have been working in retail for the past few years and it's now time for me to look at my options as a counsellor again. I enjoyed the CBT side of counselling but I'm open to options on where and what I can do next. I also like the idea of psychology. What direction do I go? Or can you suggest.

StellB Editor 15/03/2018 at 2:09 pm

@Tessa - unless you can do a post-graduate course transfer, you'd have to begin again at the beginning. The thing about counselling is that anyone can train to a minimum level and set up as a 'counseller' or 'therapist'. But if you want to be taken seriously then you have to get the best training and best experience possible and that's at degree level and beyond. Plus, it's a massively overpopulated field, so applications for the good jobs are competitive. I've been there, done that and got the tee-shirt!

Tessa 13/03/2018 at 9:35 pm

I am looking into doing a counselling diploma, but have no qualifications in this area. I have a BSc and MSc in a completely unrelated subject and would like to avoid doing another degree. I would have to take the diploma part time as I have a child.

At what level would I be qualified enough to get a job?

Sharon 06/02/2018 at 9:37 pm

I am in my last year of university studying business management degree, however I have kind of changed my mind of what I want to do and was thinking to do conselling as a masters degree.

Would still be able to do it or would I have to have some qualification in conselling before

Vee 06/02/2018 at 1:09 pm

Hi,

I am currently a Children's nurse working in a busy ED department. Who is looking into adding a counselling qualification to my CPD. I decided this after the loss of my own child (almost 2 years post loss). I want to be able to offer support to Children and families through and after loss. Is there any bereavement specific counselling courses I can do. Or any advice you can give me.

Kind regards

RaV Editor 05/12/2017 at 10:50 am

@Flo - you sound as though you have the right qualifications to set you on a further course of study. Specialising is good. But it's a long, hard, comeptitive slog and you would have to do further study, maybe even a second degree. What about an MA in counselling? They do one in London Goldsmiths.Best of luck.

Flo 03/12/2017 at 8:19 pm

Hello there,

I am a 34 year old female and mother of three young children. Two of our children are of school/nursery age and I have just a few years before our last child will follow suit. I have been a stay-at-home mum for the last six years and I am thinking now about what I will do when I return to work when our youngest is at nursery full-time.

I have a BA in Theological Studies - a II:I from Exeter University; I also have a PGCE in Secondary Religious Education, although I never taught full time afterwards and did not, therefore, gain my full qualification with QTS.

I have always been interested in counselling as a career and yet now, a little older and with mor elide experience - particularly that of parenting perhaps - I feel in a better position to make a more rounded application. There seems to be an increased interest in and effort from the government around issues of mental health generally, and particularly in children's mental health and early intervention within schools. I would love to gain the correct qualifications that would enable me to apply for school counsellor positions, for example.

What would my best training options be? I am based in London.

Many thanks indeed for any input or advice you are able to give.

PD 09/11/2017 at 12:46 pm

Hi. I am nearing 40 and am looking to change career and counselling is something what I want to get in to. Have no qualifications regarding counselling so would be starting from scratch. I have diploma in Nursing studies. Thanks

Lel 29/10/2017 at 9:11 am

Hello, I am 55 and been social work qualified for many years. I also have an advanced diploma in counselling and group work -2years part time whilst practicing as a. Social worker so in full time placement.
I am now in a position where I can choose to leave work. I would like to establish a wellbeing retreat, available to professionals looking for 1:1or group time out. Would offer physical treatments, as well as talking therapies, and coaching.

Do I need to acquire additional counselling qualifications to offer private counselling group work or life coaching?

Many thanks

Lel

ToddJ Editor 23/10/2017 at 11:54 am

@Ali27 - it would take a long time as in order to work professionally you would really need to get to degree standard and more to be able to get a job. I don't wish to dampen your enthusiasm, but it's also a really competitive field. There are a lot of university open days currently for next year, why don't you go and speak to someone and see what the best path is. At least it will put things into context and where there is a will, there's always a way.

Ali27 22/10/2017 at 9:38 am

Hi. I am nearing 50 and am looking to change career and counselling is something wanted to get into. Keep getting pulled in that direction!
Have no qualifications egarding this so would be starting from scratch. Unfortunately can’t do this full time as still need to work How would I go about this part time/evenings and how many years would this take?
Thanks

stef34 03/10/2017 at 2:09 pm

These are the courses i have nearly completed. How far can i get with these? I will be continuing my learning on various seminars with Cruse to help families and children with bereavement.

The BSY Professional Certificate of Merit in Basic Counselling.

Award 1- The professional ASC Advanced Counselling Skills Diploma and will become a Registered BSY Advanced Counselling Skills Practitioner (level 3)

Award 2- ABC certification of achievement at Level 3.

Award 1 – The BSY Professional Certificate of Merit in Bereavement Counselling.

Award 2- ABC certification of achievement at Level 3 for Bereavement Counselling.

I have been told i can practise with these qualifications? (not that i would for a further couple more years training etc)

Frenchuk 08/06/2017 at 7:10 pm

Good evening,

Firstly, thank you very much for your very helpful article.
I have completed an Hons degree in psychology & i have decided to pursue a career in counselling. I have completed Level 2 & 3 Certificates in counselling and i am due to do the level 4 diploma starting in September. I have been offered a place for a BACP accredited master degree in counselling & psychotherapy. I am really struggling to decide between the Diploma & the Master degree, I do understand the difference in terms of academic expectations and work load but i am still unclear about the difference in career prospects or outcome between the two routes.
Would you be able to clarify what is the difference in terms of prospect & outcome between these two types of training?

Thank you very much for your help again.

Kind regards,

Frenchuk

mincepie 05/06/2017 at 8:47 am

Hello,
I have been teaching for 24 years, 10 of which in international schools. I came back to the UK 5 years ago, went back to college to do a Professional Diploma in Therapeutic counselling (BTEC 5) giving me the chance to become school counsellor. Since then I was able to teach Health and Social Care and Psychology in a college. Itching to go abroad again, I am now applying for positions as counsellor in international schools but most of them seem to require experience in career guidance and college applications, which I don't really have. I am thinking of doing an accredited online course at level 4 in Career Counselling to gain the knowledge and confidence. If you are or have been in this situation, I would be grateful for any advice. I have worked as a school counsellor for many years now in the UK and abroad but just don't feel confident about the career side of the job.

Tommy 10/05/2017 at 2:20 pm

Hi,

I competed an access to HE diploma in counselling. I don't want to move onto the degree and was wondering if the BACP would accept this qualification to start counselling privately with this under my belt.

Regards,

Tommy

biggirl 02/05/2017 at 7:55 pm

i have recently completed an online course for counselling and an advanced course for counselling through a british company called bsy will i be able to get a job with this

Matt 05/04/2017 at 2:46 pm

Heya, just wondering what courses would be best to start to learn counselling? Would it be better to start on a level 2 to give me a understanding of it? Or go straight to level 3/4 and do open university? I have my level 3 in health and social care... have worked in mental health and ex offenders and rehab places... all for about 7 years, but I'm 24 and want a change and counselling would probably be best! Let me know, would really help. Thank you

Lisa 29/03/2017 at 6:22 am

I completed a BS degree in Psychology at San Francisco State Uni in 2003 and a MA degree in Counseling from John F Kennedy Uni in Oakland in 2006. I completed approx 750 supervised hours between 2005 and 2007. Since 2006 I've been working in a behavioral health organization doing telephone crisis counseling. I am interested in relocating to the U.K. and completing any requirements for accreditation then working in a group practice or center. What is the best way to proceed with accreditation? Do I need to secure a position somewhere first? Thank you.

Mel 15/01/2017 at 11:52 pm

I have decided to tsje up s level 3 counselling course, do I need s placement, how can I source counselling organisations that provide placements for student's. I was also looking inti counselling internships, but I do not quite understand how internships work.

yuva 30/12/2016 at 12:28 am

i am completed diploma nurse, i wanna become a psychiatric counceller. so, what degree should i need to complete. pls, provide me a good suggestion.

Jude 17/11/2016 at 9:25 pm

I am 57 and want to develop a new career as a psychotherapist, as I love working and helping people and have done throughout my career. I graduated at 22 in English/Sociology BA hons. I have run my own outplacement / career management company for 18 years where I've worked with people up to director level, helping them gain self esteem, achieve and sort out problems to get to a level where they are happy. I've helped people who are totally despondent gain direction and reach a place where they are happy. I am s good listener, empathetic motivational and love helping people. As a budiness coach at director level I've helped people develop and grow.
My mother has is controlled I bipolar and I've helped her regain her life for 20 years. My nephew has mental problems too and I have always been a pillar for him. ive also helped anorexic family member. I've always helped people and would love to change career direction to be a psychotherapist. I've seen the BSY advanced psychotherapy course and diploma - would attaining this help towards practising as a psychotherapist?

Trina 10/11/2016 at 8:13 pm

I have a Heath and social care degree and have a health and social care management certificate. During my course I have studied psychology and counselling. Would I need to do an additional course. I have experience of working with students with complex needs and I have used my counselling skills which were successful. Could anyone help please.

jubi 08/10/2016 at 3:06 pm

I'm a House surgeon student of BHMS.i would like to study councelling too...please help me

Sham 02/09/2016 at 9:03 am

Hello, I am a qualified primary teacher and would like to go into counselling and would like to know how to start what courses are available and what are the entry requirements

Paulalynn 26/08/2016 at 1:17 pm

Hello, I have got a diploma in counseling but never got a job as a counsellor. Life took me on a different path. I am now 52 years old and sitting here pondering about the what ifs. I have always and still love to be involved with people and wondered where I can go now with this qualification. Any advice would be appreciated.

EskimoMelon 20/08/2016 at 7:03 am

I am a qualified secondary history teacher and have been employed In this role for the past six years. I have decided I'd like a career change and would like to become a counsellor in an educational setting instead. Given that I already have a history degree and a PGCE, are there any conversion courses I can do or do I have to start from the bottom with regard to training again?

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 03/08/2016 at 10:23 am

I have included a link to National Careers which gives you more information on what you need to take the next step, if this is the route you wish to take, here. I have also included a psychology whichHowever, please be aware these qualifications are for UK-study only, as we are a UK-based site. If you wanted to combine your zoology qualifications, then you may be able to specialise in pet behaviour, If you took this route, you would be working with both owners and animals.

nik 02/08/2016 at 10:02 am

Hi, I am nikki from India.I have lost my path to career . I am nw 26 yrs. But, m jobless, its not tht m not getting job...bt d degrees i have i do not wants to go in that field.After 12th i completed Air hosstess training, also got selected for Indigo airlines bt due to parents concern and conservative mentality i droped it and completed my Bachelors in science and later on also nw m done with my masters degree in science..specialization in zoology.I can further make a job in dis field bt sumwer i stil don't feel happy to b in it.I have realized that m gud at understanding people problems.I also hv keen interest in observing people, knowig dem, about d subjectt of psychology n etc...My frends share der sorrows n problms wid me n dey say dey feel great and motivated after talkin to me.I love to talk, gv advice n m very mch sure that i wil b a great councellor.bt, it says i need to hv a psychology degree wich i do not have...bt wants to become a councellor...plz Councellors help me out...n also i wants to b a councellor in al field,...lik for marriage, relationships, schools, communities n etc...plz guide me soon so that i take my decisions fast on it.
Thank you.
waiting eagerly for ur guidance n advices.

Priya 31/05/2016 at 3:44 pm

I am msc counselling psychotherapist finished in tnou open university but I want a good experience in this field what can I do for next my career developing ? Pls msg me

nic 30/04/2016 at 9:40 am

i have level 2 counselling skills, can i get into a counselling job with this or would i have to look at voluntary? or even go on to do level 3, many thanks

Roseyem 11/03/2016 at 7:20 pm

Hi I have a foundation degree in working with young people and would like to become a young people's counsellor. What course would you recommend?

Ribbons 29/09/2015 at 7:38 am

Hi, can you private counsel with a HNC level 4 counselling qualification?

Mags 28/09/2015 at 9:01 pm

I'm interested in working in America but I've read that you have to have a Masters degree in counselling to obtain a license.
I have a Level 4 diploma in Person-centred and a Level 5 diploma in CBT and live in the UK.
I can't find any information about whether or not these qualifications would allow me to work in the U.S. or whether I would need to get a degree first. It's also not made clear which Beitish degree is the equivalent of an American Masters.
I'm so confused!!

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 04/09/2015 at 10:06 am

You can find out more from the British Association for Counselling & Psychotherapy, BACP, whichI hope this helps.

Joy 03/09/2015 at 12:35 pm

I have a certificate in theory and skills and a diplomas with CSCT. I would like to start a business
and counsel at home. Would you have any ideas where to start?

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 09/07/2015 at 10:43 am

@Mea - I have included a link hereto the National Careers Service, which gives some additional information. As counselling is quite often a second or third career, the article specifies that life experience, and such experience that you have previously had as a primary school teacher is and will be highly valued. I hope this helps and good luck.

Mea 06/07/2015 at 10:29 am

I am a fully qualified primary school teacher and taught for 20 years. I have recently qualified as a shiatsu practitioner and also do private tuition for KS 1 to ks 4. I have valued the counselling areas of both of there jobs and had great feedback from people about how they feel helped by just talking to me. So I feel I have something to give in this area. I would like to know what qualifications I would need to work as a councillor for the nhs with adults or children. Do my past qualifications and experience have any value?
Many thanks

Kirky 11/06/2015 at 5:44 pm

HI,
Im a registered adult nurse,I have been qualified for 8 years,but would love to go into counceling. What course would I need to do?and how would I go about been self employed?

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 07/05/2015 at 12:16 pm

@Dav - I have included an additional link to Prospects - Counsellor Entry Requirements here which should help you decide whether you can apply for jobs now, or continue learning and developing your skills.

Dav 06/05/2015 at 4:14 pm

Hi,

I just wanted to find out what is my possible option in reguarding getting a job. I am 25 year of age have competed level 1,2 and 3 in counselling and volunteering at rape crisis helpline. I wanted to find out with all i have gain can I apply for jobs in that sector, or need further education.

Thanks

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 14/04/2015 at 2:04 pm

@nightmare - you may like to start with an organisation such as the Samaritans who train you up to do voluntary telephone counselling. Otherwise, it can be quite a long road to gain the qualifications to practice counselling professionally, but, you are never too old to learn.

nightmare 11/04/2015 at 8:19 pm

I have always wanted to give something back to people that have helped me in the past,but at 50 am I too old to learn ?

Mez 22/11/2014 at 11:14 am

I am interested in training to be a counsellor for young people & children. I have worked within schools as a SEN Teaching Assistant for over 15 years & wondered how I would gain a suitable qualification. I have an Access to HE certificate also. I realise it's probably tricky to get into, but also believe there is a strong need for counsellors, specifically for young people. Any ideas would be gratefully recieved.

gemma Editor 14/11/2014 at 3:11 pm

@Jodie - I'm not sure that you can set up as a private counsellor without the required qualifications. You would need to have them in order to show people you are full trained in giving what can be very sensitive advice.

Jodie 14/11/2014 at 2:44 pm

Hello, I am a registered mental health nurse, I have 11 years experience with substance abuse and servere mental health problems. I am looking to work privately in a counselling role. I am looking at doing a part time course but was wondering if I was able to offer private counselling while I work towards a credited qualification as counselling formed a major part of my day to day nursing care? Thank you.

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 21/10/2014 at 12:31 pm

@Bubbles You should be able to get some voluntary work, even if you go in on a basic level but say you have a counselling qualification. Have you tried someone like the Samaritans where you could get involved in some telephone counselling? Do It. org has a list of vacancies that might help.

Bubbles 20/10/2014 at 6:31 pm

I studied under the Scottish Counselling Association to Diploma Level
I worked so hard and really enjoyed doing the course but my problem is to get voluntary counselling job as they all require a lot of supervised hrs but unfortunately I did this course on line paid all the fees required and did all my assignments well . I honestly don't know what to do next. I work for Social work but I am really passion about Counselling please help me.

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 14/10/2014 at 11:31 am

@Rachy - rather than move away completely from your original chosen career, could you not look at a career as a drama therapist that combines both working with people to make a difference and your drama work?

Within drama therapy you might be working with young people with special needs or mental health patients. From there you could perhaps undertake some additional counselling courses that can organically take you off in your chosen direction.

Rather than start again from the beginning, it seems such a shame to waste all your hard work in drama and musical theatre when there are jobs out there that can combine the both.

Hope this helps.

Rachy 13/10/2014 at 7:56 pm

I am a graduate from drama and musical theatre. I have had a change of heart and what to do something that makes a difference to peoples lives. I would love to council but I don't know what's the best way to get into this career when its not something I trained in yet...I'm happy to go back to college and love to learn. I'm 26.

TheCounsellorsGuide Editor 09/10/2014 at 2:43 pm

@sophie. These questions are always hard to answer as it very much depends on you the person and what you'd like to achieve long term. You are obviously in the right profession as a starting block and your current employment and qualifications can only help your CV. According to BACP in the UK there is no minimum level of qualification that needs to be reached in order to practice. However, it states that this is likely to change in the near future as it becomes a regulated profession.The level you achieve also depends on the work path you wish to take and the criteria required at that point. If after the basic courses doing a degree will help you attain that, then perhaps that is the route you should take and an employer will always value a degree because of its grounding. The again, much of life is about opportunity and being in the right place at the right time. Some people find permenant jobs through the voluntary work they undertake. Or you might just find the right opportunity because of the skills you will have and have already attained, and that suits your needs without having to go to university. It all depends on how far you want to take your career in the future. Whatever you choose, keep studying, and good luck.

Sophie E 08/10/2014 at 7:40 pm

Hi i am 19 years old, and completed a health and social care level 3 extended diploma, I have been working full time for a year as a support worker, I want to a career in counselling, i understand that I have to do introductory courses and levels 1,2,3 and 4. Is it possible to still get employed a good career from just those qualifications, or should I then continue to do a degree? any help and advice would be appreciated thank you !

LJ 31/08/2014 at 7:20 am

I am a special needs teacher looking at becoming a counsellor. I am 39years old and have had some experience in studying counselling back in 1997 where I passed a CSCT course in 'counselling skills' and 'counselling theory'. I'm not sure how much training I would be required to do and I currently work hours that proceed full time.

I look forward to hearing any suggestions or routes that may be applicable for me to follow. Thank you.

lizzie 20/06/2014 at 9:34 pm

Hi there,
i completed and passed a Ba (hons) Social Work 4 years ago. I know it sounds silly, but i do not want to practice as a social worker
I am really interested in counselling but to go back to Uni would be too much. Can you help with any advice on what route i could take?
kind regards Liz

Poppet 24/05/2014 at 5:57 pm

I am wanting to change career path and go into counselling full time
I have been a large store Manager in retail for 24 years and have supported, coached ,listened and helped many people through my career .I have done work related counselling courses but nothing accredited
I have vast life experiences including some traumatic experiences and from that I have learnt many things which as made me a extremely positive, engaging and inspiring person.with the ability to lead, influence and listen without being judgemental
I have been a project manager for the last 3 years which has given me great opportunities in terms of leading and coaching large teams
I work full time and will need to continue this to support my leanings, although I am happy to go to college one day per week or different nights.
Could you please recommend the best route for me to take .
Many thanks

jsh 14/01/2014 at 2:17 am

Hi I am 19 and I have always wanted to become a counsellor I have just finished college doing health and social course. Now I want to take the next step but not sure what that is. If you could help me take the next step that would be amazing.
Many thanks

richa 01/01/2014 at 12:01 pm

I want to become a councellor as well as a proffesor in human psycology. What course should I do with because now I am in 12th.

Anna 31/10/2013 at 3:20 pm

Hello , I hope you can advice me about a counselling course that would give me the possibilities to work in America as well, as I have a loved one there, and thinking of getting married, but I still would want to work in my field as a counsiller, which i have wanting to do for many years now , I have a lot of life experience, and have met many different people from all over the world. This is a passion of me to become a qualified counsiller, now is the time for me to go and do this, please can you advice me. anna

Jazz 17/07/2013 at 4:42 pm

Hello,
Im really interested in becoming a counsellor, can anybody give me advise on how I would get started, maybe do some volentry work to get trained?
im a fantastic listener all my friends come to me and love being able to help people. please help this is what I really want to do.
Thank you

Navneeta 14/05/2013 at 12:02 pm

I am a counsellor. Lookingfor opportunities in counselling

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