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Date Published: 27/05/2025
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Why Choose Counselling?
Counselling is more than just a profession - it's a calling. It's about creating a safe space for others to explore their thoughts, feelings and experiences. As a counsellor, you become a guide, a listener and a source of support during some of life's most challenging moments.
But even if you don't plan to become a professional counsellor, studying counselling can enrich your personal and professional life. It helps you:
- Improve communication and empathy
- Strengthen relationships
- Understand human behaviour
- Support friends, family or colleagues in need
Why Study Counselling at Kent Adult Education?
Kent Adult Education is a trusted provider of high-quality adult learning across Kent. Our Counselling courses are designed to be accessible, practical and deeply rewarding. Here's what sets them apart:
Accredited and Respected Qualifications KAE's Counselling courses are accredited by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), a leading awarding body in the UK. This means your qualifications are recognised by employers and professional bodies, giving you a solid foundation for further study or employment.
Expert Tutors with Real World Experience Courses are taught by experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and practical insight. Their supportive, interactive teaching style ensures that learners feel confident and engaged throughout their studies.
Flexible Learning Options Whether you prefer in-person classes at one of Kent Adult Education's centres across Kent or the convenience of online learning, there's a format to suit your lifestyle. Courses are also offered during the evenings to accomodate working adults.
A Supportive Learning Environment Kent Adult Education fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where learners of all backgrounds feel valued. You'll be part of a community that encourages growth, reflection and mutual respect.
Browse our Counselling courses
What Will You Learn?
Kent Adult Education's Counselling courses are structured to guide you from foundational knowledge to advanced practice. Here's a breakdown of what you can expect at each level:
Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
This is the ideal starting point for anyone new to counselling. You'll explore:
- The core principles of counselling
- Active listening and empathy
- Ethical frameworks and boundaries
- Self-awareness and personal development
This course is perfect for those considering a career in counselling or looking to enhance their interpersonal skills in other roles.
Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
Building on Level 2, this course delves deeper into:
- Counselling theories and approaches
- The counselling process and client work
- Developing reflective practice
- Preparing for progression to practitioner-level training
It's a crucial step for those aiming to become professional counsellors.
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
This is a practitioner-level qualification that prepares you to work as a professional counsellor. You'll gain:
- In-depth knowledge of therapeutic models
- Practical experience through supervised placements
- Skills in assessment, intervention and evaluation
- A strong ethical and professional foundation
This qualification will give you the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency context. On completion of this 2 year course, you will gain a Diploma in Integrative Counselling.
Find out more about our Counselling courses
Who Are These Courses For?
Kent Adult Education's Counselling courses are suitable for a wide range of learners, including:
- Career changers seeking a meaningful new path
- Healthcare and education professionals wanting to enhance their communication and support skills
- Volunteers and support workers in community or charity settings
- Individuals interested in personal growth and understanding human behaviour
No prior experience is needed for entry-level courses - just a willingness to learn and a genuine interest in helping others.
What Will You Gain?
By enrolling in a Counselling course at Kent Adult Education, you'll gain:
Recognised Qualifications CPCAB-accredited certificates that open doors to further study or employment.
Practical Skills Real-world techniques in listening, empathy and communication that are applicable in any setting.
Personal Growth Increased self-awareness, emotional intelligence and confidence.
Career Opportunities A pathway into a rewarding profession with growing demand in schools, healthcare, charities and private practice.
A Career in Counselling: What's It Like?
Working as a counsellor is both challenging and deeply fulfilling. You'll work with individuals facing a wide range of issues including:
- Anxiety and depression
- Relationship difficulties
- Bereavement and loss
- Trauma and abuse
- Life transitions and identity
Counsellors work in diverse settings such as:
- NHS and private healthcare
- Schools and universities
- Charities and community organisations
- Workplace wellbeing programmes
- Private practice
The profession offers flexibility, with opportunities for part-time, full-time and self-employed work. As mental health awareness continues to grow, so does the demand for qualified counsellors.
The National Careers Service website has some really useful information about pursuing a career as a counsellor which can help you make an informed decision about what to expect from this career path. Visit their website to find out more.
Visit National Careers Service to find out more about being a Counsellor
How to Enrol
Getting started is easy. Here's how you can enrol in a Counselling course at Kent Adult Education:
1. Visit the website Go to the Counselling Courses page.
2. Browse courses Explore the available courses, read the descriptions and choose the one that suits your goals and experience level.
3. Check entry requirements Some courses may require previous qualifications or an interview. These details are clearly listed on the course page.
4. Express your interest Call us on 03000 41 22 22 or visit your local centre for assistance. Our Learner Experience team will be able to provide advice and discuss the next steps for your enrolment.
5. Start learning Once enrolled, you'll receive all the information you need to begin your journey.
Browse our Counselling courses