Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (Part-Time)
Course Overview
This qualification is designed for learners who have already completed a Level 2 counselling skills course and want to take the next step towards becoming a professional counsellor. It builds your understanding of counselling theory, ethics and mental health, and prepares you for progression to practitioner-level training. This course supports your development for further study and can enhance your skills for work in related fields.
Day and time: Thursday 9.00am – 2.30pm (daytime) Start date: September 2026 Duration: One year (September to June)
Who is this course for?
• Adults who have completed a Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills or equivalent
• Those looking to progress towards professional counsellor training
• Individuals working in or aiming to move into helping or support roles
What you will learn
• Counselling theories, ethics and mental health awareness
• Development of counselling skills through practice and reflection
• Understanding of the counselling process and professional expectations
On completion, you will gain a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies and be prepared to progress to Level 4 counselling qualifications.
• A recognised Level 2 counselling skills qualification or equivalent (minimum 75 Guided Learning Hours)
• Learners must be aged 21 or over
• Interview prior to enrolment
This qualification is designed as pre-practitioner training and does not lead directly to employment as a counsellor. It prepares you to progress onto Level 4 or Level 5 counselling qualifications, which are required for professional practice. It may also support progression in related roles within support services, education or health and social care.
• Prepare to work within an ethical framework for counselling
• Understand the counselling relationship
• Understand difference and diversity issues to develop empathic understanding
• Work within a user-centred approach to counselling
• Use counselling theory to develop self-awareness in counselling practice
• Understand theories of counselling and mental health
• Use feedback, reflection and supervision to support counselling studies
Internal assessment through a tutor-assessed portfolio of evidence where students are required to be Proficient across 7 learning outcomes. We are externally verified by CPCAB.
