Stepping up to the Next Level (starts at 1.50 mins)
A frequent question in the Counselling Tutor Facebook group is about what it’s like to move up to the next level of counselling training. If you’re not already a member, do come along and chat to over 30,000 others interested in the world of counselling and psychotherapy (including students, qualified practitioners, supervisors and tutors).
In the UK, Level 2 counselling courses (an introduction to counselling) are usually about 10-15 weeks long.
Level 3 courses (focusing on counselling skills, but also including some theory and personal development) are one year, while Level 4 (qualification level) is a two-year training.
It’s important to think ahead as to whether you will be able to commit the amount of time and energy needed to complete all parts of the course satisfactorily.
For example, at Level 4, this includes the contact time, writing assignments, going to your placement, and having supervision.
Personal therapy may also be a requirement of some Level 4 courses, supporting the big emphasis on self-awareness and personal development at this stage of training. Rory describes the workload of Level 4 as like having an additional part-time job.
Having said all this, the training is very enriching and worthwhile. As Rory puts it, it’s like a long but interesting trek up a hill – and the view when you get there is just beautiful!
The trick is not to look too far ahead: instead, enjoy every step of your journey.
Rory has written a checklist on moving up to the next level; this is available here, or you can get hold of it through the Handouts Vault and Counselling Study Resource (CSR).
The CSR is a great place for you to find support with your course – over 40,000 students have already used it to help them achieve their learning outcomes.