You don’t need any qualifications to start — just curiosity and a genuine desire to help people.
Most counsellors train in stages:
Step 1 — Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills An introduction to counselling theory, ethics, and the core skills you’ll use in practice. No prior experience needed.
Step 2 — Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies Deepens your understanding of theory and builds self-awareness — an essential part of becoming an effective counsellor.
Step 3 — Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling The qualification that takes you into practice. Includes a minimum of 100 hours supervised client work alongside your classroom learning. At Adept, we deliver all three levels through CPCAB — one of the UK’s most respected counselling awarding bodies, recognised by employers and professional bodies including BACP and NCPS.
What about becoming fully accredited?
Once qualified, most counsellors work toward accreditation with a professional body like BACP. This typically requires additional hours of supervised practice, personal therapy, and ongoing professional development. We’ll guide you through what that looks like when the time comes.
One thing worth knowing:
Counselling isn’t statutorily regulated, which means anyone can technically call themselves a counsellor. Choosing a CPCAB-accredited training centre protects you — and the clients you’ll eventually work with.