Counselling Training Course

Counselling makes a difference in people’s lives. It gives them space to express themselves, explore challenges, and take steps toward improved well-being. Whether you’re working in the social care sector or looking to start your journey in this field, understanding the basics of counselling can help you support others effectively and with empathy.

This free introduction to counselling online training introduces you to the core principles, skills, and theories of counselling. You’ll gain practical knowledge about listening, responding, and creating a safe and inclusive environment for people who use services. It’s the perfect starting point for anyone eager to develop or expand their understanding of counselling.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

If you work with people who need emotional or practical support, counselling skills can transform how you help others. This course provides a foundation in counselling, which is especially valuable for those working in health, social care, and community roles.

Here are a few reasons to take this course:

• Understand what counselling really is: Explore how counselling differs from other supportive roles, so you can use the right approach in your work.
• Connect theory to practice: Learn about widely-used counselling models in the UK, like the person-centred approach and cognitive behavioural techniques, and how they can be applied.
• Develop practical skills: Discover ways to improve your listening and communication to provide better support. You’ll practice skills like reflecting, paraphrasing, and asking open questions.
• Focus on ethical boundaries: Learn to maintain professional relationships, protect confidentiality, and work inclusively.
• Start your pathway: Find out how to continue your counselling training, what qualifications are available, and what career roles might suit you.

By the end of this course, you’ll feel confident in applying basic counselling techniques and identifying the next steps in your development.

Learning Outcomes

Throughout this free online training, you’ll:

• Explore what counselling is and its purpose in social care and other settings.
• Learn how counselling differs from other support roles, like mentoring or advice-giving.
• Understand the principles behind effective counselling, including trust, confidentiality, and empathy.
• Discover different theoretical approaches – including person-centred, psychodynamic, and cognitive behavioural models – and how they apply to practice.
• Build essential skills like active listening, summarising, and responding with clarity.
• Consider your own self-awareness, strengths, and values, and how they influence your ability to counsel others.
• Strengthen your knowledge of professional ethics and the boundaries required in a counselling relationship.
• Take part in role-play scenarios where you’ll apply and reflect on the skills you’ve learnt.
• Get practical advice on how to progress your career in counselling or related areas.

This free training offers practical knowledge you can apply in your work or personal life and serves as a starting point if you want to train further.

Target Audience

This course is perfect for anyone starting in counselling or looking to use counselling skills in their work. If you are in the social care sector or in a role supporting individuals and families, this course will suit you.

You might be:

• A care worker supporting people with emotional or practical needs.
• A community support worker providing outreach services.
• A social worker looking to add to your skills.
• A team lead or manager learning how to support your staff with counselling techniques.
• A volunteer in a charity or organisation assisting vulnerable individuals.

This training benefits anyone who engages with people who use services, offering inspiration and advice you can apply immediately.

FAQ

Do I need prior experience in counselling to join this course?
No experience is required. This course starts with the basics, so it’s ideal if you’re exploring counselling for the first time.

Can I take this course at my own pace?
Yes, you can complete it online in your own time. It’s designed to fit your schedule.

Will I get a certificate?
Yes. Once you complete the course, you’ll receive a certificate of completion. This is a great way to show your new knowledge to employers.

Does this course qualify me to become a counsellor?
Not directly, but it provides a foundation in counselling skills and guidance on pursuing further qualifications.

How long is the course?
The course takes about 6-8 hours to complete, but you can spread it out as suits you.

Can I use what I learn in my current role?
Absolutely. Whether you’re listening to people during difficult times or offering practical support, this course gives you tools to enhance your role.

Is this course CPD accredted?
Not at the moment but it will be shortly.

Start learning today and build a deeper understanding of counselling. Whether it’s better communication, stronger listening skills, or starting your path toward a formal counselling career, this course is for you.