The 5 Questions We Get Asked the Most

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Are you thinking about taking the steps into a new career to become a therapeutic counsellor? 

We see a lot of people following their calling into a career in counselling, and many of them have the same questions. If you're reading this, chances are you have these same questions too, and you’re in exactly the right place to find the answers. So here we go:

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1. What qualifications will I need to become a counsellor?

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This is always one of the first questions that we get asked. The route to becoming a qualified counsellor varies from person to person depending on your previous experience, but a typical pathway begins with developing listening skills. We recommend starting with our An Introduction to Counselling: Listening Skills course, which helps provide you with knowledge, awareness and skills that will be helpful when communicating with others in both your personal and professional life. 

 

From there, most participants move onto our Introduction to Counselling Skills, Studies and Personal Development course, this course offers a gateway qualification for level 4 counselling courses. Designed to incorporate both level 2 and 3 curriculum content, it focuses on supporting you to gain knowledge, listening skills, personal development and self-awareness. 

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This leads naturally onto our Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, a professional qualification that will enable you to practice as a Therapeutic Counsellor. 

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2. How long will it be before I can practice?

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The journey to becoming a qualified counsellor typically takes between three to four years, although the exact timeframe can vary depending on your existing qualifications and previous experience. If you are starting from the beginning looking to complete the course covering level 2 and 3, then moving onto the level 4 course, this would take up to 4 years. However, if you already have a level 3 qualification, the level 4 diploma on its own is just a 2 year course.

 

This naturally leads to the next question we’re often asked. Will this mean I can work with people?

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There is one simple answer, yes. Once you have successfully completed your training and obtained your qualification, you will be fully equipped to begin working with clients. As a qualified counsellor, you’ll be able to support individuals who are seeking professional help. You'll have the skills, knowledge and ethical grounding needed to help make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

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3. Do I need a particular professional background to
    become a counsellor?

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No, not at all. While many of our learners come from the care sector including nurses, social workers and teachers, we’ve also had counsellors in training who are making a complete career change, from hairdressers to admin roles, you can still become a counsellor. We have people in their 20s through to their 50s all training with us, and often alongside an existing job. The common thread that we see? A desire to help others, to listen with empathy, and help make a real difference in the world.

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4. How will I balance my studies with work and home life?

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We hear this a lot. Many of our students are juggling work, family, and study, so you’re not alone.

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Here we offer free advice and resources: Time Management for People Who Study Whilst Working, which provides helpful strategies for staying on top of everything. Plus, all of our course facilitators are understanding and flexible, many of us have been in your shoes and know the pressures of balancing multiple roles.

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A change in career doesn’t mean saying goodbye to everything else, it just means reshuffling your agenda a little to make space for your own personal and professional growth.

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5. Why should I choose Training for Counsellors?

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We might be biased, but we really believe in what we do.

Our training is different, it’s about real, human connection and a sense of community during and after your learning journey. We value small group classes and provide an anti-oppressive and neuro-affirming approach to learning. You will be part of a caring and supportive team, where you can learn and grow together. We also offer ongoing CPD opportunities to help you expand and enhance your learning.

 

Becoming a counsellor is more than just a job, it’s about purpose, and a sense of pride as you help and support others. It starts with one simple step: curiosity. If you’re already asking these questions, you’re already on your way. Whether you’re starting from scratch or switching careers, we’re here to guide and support you.

 

Ready to take that first step? Browse through our courses and CPD opportunities, and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn to stay up to date with everything we have coming up. If you have any more questions, contact Sam at info@training-for-counsellors.co.uk

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