Counselling Foundation
Overview
This one-year course offers a blend of counselling skills and theory, providing a strong foundation for those wishing to progress toward becoming a professional counselling practitioner. The programme is CPCAB accredited, ensuring recognised quality and standards within the counselling profession.
The course introduces students to the core principles, values, and practical skills of counselling, alongside key theoretical approaches that underpin effective practice. It is ideal for individuals exploring a career in counselling or those looking to develop deeper interpersonal and listening skills for personal or professional growth.
Throughout the year, students will build self-awareness, gain a deeper understanding of the counselling process, and develop the knowledge and confidence needed to progress to Counselling Practitioner Diploma.
Aims of the Course
Develop active listening and empathic communication skills
Understand the role of the counsellor and ethical boundaries
Explore key theoretical models, with a focus on the person-centred approach
Reflect on personal development and self-awareness
Learn about confidentiality, non-judgement, and respect in practice
Expand understanding of counselling theories and therapeutic approaches
Enhance practical counselling skills through structured practice
Deepen self-awareness and the ability to reflect on personal development
Explore mental health awareness and client diversity
Develop a clearer understanding of the counselling profession and its boundaries
Learning Methods
Interactive group work
Skills practice sessions
Reflective journals and self-evaluation
Tutor and peer feedback
Short written assignments
Supervised skills practice with structured feedback
Theory classes with group discussion
Case studies
Coursework and written assessments
NO EXAM!
Key Topics Include:
Core counselling skills (such as reflecting, paraphrasing, summarising)
The counselling relationship and the importance of unconditional positive regard
Ethical practice and the BACP Ethical Framework
Personal development and journaling for self-awareness
In-depth exploration of theoretical models (Person-Centred, Psychodynamic, CBT)
The counselling process: beginning, maintaining, and ending sessions
Mental health conditions and the counsellor’s role in a wider support system
Diversity, inclusion, and anti-oppressive practice
Ethical and professional issues in counselling
Developing a reflective and ethical mindset
Who is this for?
This course is ideal if:
You're considering or serious about a career in counselling
You work in a helping or supportive role (e.g., education, health, social care)
You want to improve your interpersonal and communication skills
You want to understand how theory and ethics shape real-world counselling practice
Progression
On successful completion of Counselling Foundation enables progression to Counselling Practitioner in Therapeutic Counselling, which includes placement and prepares learners for professional qualification.
No Hidden Fees
Counselling Foundation
£1,500 or £500 deposit followed by 12 payments of £99
Become a Counsellor Programme
Counselling Foundation and Counselling Practitioner
£8,500 or £500 deposit followed by 36 payments of £245