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Date Published: 17/07/2025
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What is a Level 2 Counselling Course?
The Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills is a nationally recognised qualification designed to introduce learners to the core principles, skills and ethics of counselling. It provides a solid foundation for anyone interested in understanding how to use counselling skills safely and effectively in a variety of settings.
At Kent Adult Education, this course is delivered by experienced tutors in a supportive and inclusive environment. You'll engage in both theoretical and practical activities that help you develop real-world counselling skills.
Who is This Course For?
This course is ideal for individuals from all walks of life who are interested in developing their ability to support others. You don't need prior experience in counselling - just a genuine interest in people and a willingness to learn.
This course may be for you if:
- You want to explore counselling as a career: This course is a perfect introduction for those considering a future in professional counselling. It helps you decide if this path aligns with your values and interests.
- You work in a helping profession: Teachers, healthcare workers, social workers, HR professionals and others in people-focused roles will benefit from enhanced communication and empathy skills.
- You're seeking personal growth: Many learners who join to improve their interpersonal relationships, self-awareness and emotional intelligence.
- You value ethical practice: The course emphasises the importance of boundaries, confidentiality and ethical frameworks in all helping roles.
- You want to support others: Whether in a voluntary role, community setting or personal life, this course equips you with the tools to listen and respond effectively.
What Will You Learn?
The Level 2 Counselling course covers a wide range of essential topics, including:
Core Counselling Skills
- Active listening
- Reflective responses
- Empathy and non-judgement
- Questioning techniques
- Managing silence
Theoretical Foundations
- Introduction to counselling theories (e.g. person-centres, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural)
- Understand the counselling process
- The role of the counsellor vs other helping roles
Ethical and Professional Practice
- Confidentiality and boundaries
- Ethical frameworks (e.g. BACP Ethical Framework)
- Self-awareness and personal development
- Managing emotional responses
Practical Application
- Role plays and peer feedback
- Group discussions and reflective journals
- Case studies and scenario-based learning
By the end of the course, you'll have a clear understanding of how to use counselling skills ethically and effectively in both personal and professional contexts.
How is the Course Delivered?
Kent Adult Education offers flexible delivery options to suit your lifestyle. Courses are available in-person at various centres across Kent and in real-time, online, allowing you to choose the format that works best for you.
Course Features:
- Experienced tutors with real-world counselling backgrounds
- Small class sizes for personalised support
- Interactive learning through discussions, activities and role play
- Supportive environment that encourages self-reflection and growth
What Are the Entry Requirements?
There are no formal qualifications required to enrol in the Level 2 Counselling course. However you should:
- Be aged 19 or over
- Have a good level of spoken and written English
- Be emotionally resilient and open to self-reflection
- Be able to commit to regular attendance and coursework
Why Choose Kent Adult Education?
Kent Adult Education has a long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality, accessible learning opportunities for adults across the county. When you choose to study with us, you benefit from:
- Expert tutors with professional counselling experience
- Flexible learning options to fit around your life
- Progression pathways to Level 3 and Level 4 counselling qualifications
- Supportive learning environment that values diversity and inclusion
- Concessions available to help with course fees (subject to eligibility criteria)
What Can You Do After Completing the Course?
The Level 2 course is the first step in a structured pathway toward becoming a qualified counsellor. Many learners go on to:
Progress to Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
The next stage deepens your understanding of counselling theory and practice and prepares you for more advanced training.
Enrol in Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
This is the professional qualification required to practise as a counsellor. It includes supervised placements and leads to registration with professional bodies such as the BACP.
Apply Skills in Your Current Role
Even if you don't pursue counselling as a career, the skills you gain on the Level 2 accredited Counselling course can enhance your effectiveness in roles such as teaching, nursing, social work, coaching and management.
Browse all Counselling courses