L2 Certificate in counselling skills (CSK-L2)
CPCAB level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CSK-L2)
Starting:
1. 5 October 2026 (30 weeks – PM ) Mondays 18:00 – 21:00 – Applications Closed
2. 7 October 2026 (30 weeks – AM) Wednesdays 10:00 – 13:00 – Applications open
3. 9 November 2026 (30 weeks – PM) Mondays 18:00 – 21:00 – Applications open
Accreditations
This course is awarded by the CPCAB (Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) & accredited by the Office of the Qualifications & Examinations Regulator (Ofqual) into the Qualifications and Credit Framework (QCF).
Who is the Course for?
The course is aimed at candidates who wish to develop counselling skills to work with others in a voluntary or employed capacity such as, health and social care, customer services, support work or any helping profession. This course is suitable for candidates who have the willingness to explore personal development in a safe group environment and enhance their ability to work ethically and safely.
Benefits of the course
Take the first steps to becoming a counsellor.
Improve their ability to communicate effectively with others
Enhance ability to work with others in a helping role
Recognise barriers to your own listening.
Develop an awareness of self in relation to others
Listening to others on a deeper level
Entry requirements
There is no previous experience required, however, candidates will be required to have an interest in the helping professions and be open to learning about themselves and others. This is an experiential course, which requires you to have an increased willingness to explore and discuss topics and yourself. Entry to the course is by application and interview: Once you have submitted the application, which you can complete online, if successful, you will be invited for an online interview.
learning outcomes
Use counselling skills ethically and safely
Establish and sustain the boundaries of the helping role
Work empathically as a helper
Focus on the helpee’s needs and concerns
Use self awareness in helping work
Use a range of counselling skills to facilitate the helping interaction
Use feedback and reflection to enhance counselling skills
Progression
Candidates who complete this unit may wish to progress to the CPCAB L3 in Counselling Studies. (CST-L3)
Assessment
Trainer assessed completed portfolio, including written assignments and weekly reflective written work, which is internally marked by the course tutor(s), and is externally verified by the CPCAB also. Tutors will also observe skills practice sessions and give feedback. In addition students are require to give and receive feedback to peers in skills practice sessions.
Length of course: The course is delivered over 30 weeks, for 3 hours per week.
Start date: 7 October 2026
Days/Times: 10:00 am – 13:00 pm
OR
Start date: 5 October 2026
Days/Times: 18:00 – 21:00 pm
Venue: This course is delivered online – Tutor led.
Cost: £1100.00 (There will be a price increase from September 2027)
International Students fee: £1300
Simms does not have access to government funding however, you can check for City and Guilds Foundation for Bursaries here
Additional Fees: It is advisable to purchase at least one counselling skills book (your tutor will give you more guidance around this at the start of the programme.
What do I need to start the course?
You will need a suitable laptop with a webcam and a private space to conduct the online sessions. It is advisable that you factor in 2-3 hours study time per week in addition to the 3 hours attendance. Headphones are recommended for all remotely delivered courses.
Please note: there is a 90% attendance required for this course.
Contact and enquiries: