How long does it take to become a counsellor?

Our full guide on how to become a counsellor in the UK sets out every step from Level 2 to the Level 4 diploma and professional registration, the degree and postgraduate alternatives, and what counsellors earn.

Source: BACP. TQUK names the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills as the progression route from Level 2, and most Level 4 diplomas ask for Level 3 or equivalent before you apply.

The practitioner stage cannot be shortened below BACP's minimum: at least two years of classroom tuition and a supervised placement of at least 100 client hours. You can make an early start by taking a Level 2 counselling skills certificate part time while you work; at Lift College it typically takes 3 to 6 months at 4 to 6 hours a week. Most Level 4 courses then ask for Level 2 and Level 3, or equivalent.

• You want to try the skills first: take Introduction to Counselling Skills, 5 modules, about 4 hours, paid once.
• You want a regulated qualification that starts the route: take the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills, 3 to 6 months part time, no exams and no placement.
• You already hold Level 2: look for a Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills or Counselling Studies. Lift College does not currently offer Level 3.
• You hold Level 3: apply for a Level 4 diploma that includes a supervised placement.

BACP says at least 70% of core practitioner tuition must be face to face in a classroom, and that courses delivered solely online or by distance learning do not qualify for membership. The National Careers Service adds that counsellors need to pass enhanced background checks. The Awarding bodies tab on this hub explains what each kind of approval means.

Many people take a Level 2 counselling skills certificate for the job they already do in care, support, housing, education or voluntary work. BACP describes the certificate stage as useful if your work involves advising or helping people, even if you do not plan to become a therapist. The Comparison tab on this hub shows how a skills certificate and a diploma differ.