How to become a counsellor
You can get into this job through:
- a university course
- a college course
- volunteering
- training with a counselling organisation
University
You could do a diploma, degree or postgraduate course in counselling or psychotherapy.
Some undergraduate courses offer counselling in combination with other subjects, for example psychology, sociology or criminology.
You should look for a course that includes practical skills training and supervised placements.
Entry requirements
You'll usually need:
- 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree
- a degree in any subject for a postgraduate course
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College
You can start by doing an introduction to counselling course, which can last up to 12 weeks. After that, you can extend your training by completing courses like:
- Level 3 Certificate in Counselling
- Level 4 Diploma in Counselling Skills
- Level 5 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Colleges will set their own entry requirements but most will expect you to have completed the introductory and Level 3 counselling courses to go further.
Entry requirements
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
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Volunteering
Paid or unpaid experience is essential for course and job applications. Many counselling bodies offer volunteering opportunities and you can find these on Do-it.
Other Routes
Some counselling organisations, like Relate, Samaritans and Cruse offer training, which can give you valuable experience to help you get into paid work.
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Career tips
You'll be expected to undergo counselling yourself and regularly reflect on your practice with a supervisor, as this is needed for accreditation.
Counselling is often a second or additional career, and life experience is highly valued.
Professional and industry bodies
Becoming a member of a body on the Professional Standards Authority's counselling register can improve your chances of getting a job.
Further information
You can find out more about training and careers in counselling from: