Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
(CSK-L2)

A professionally recognised qualification that equips you with the foundational skills to listen deeply, support others meaningfully, and take your first step into the world of counselling.

For further details about this course please visit: CPCAB Course code: 500/7938/4

The CPCAB logo with white lowercase letters on a red speech bubble background.
NCPS Recognised Qualification logo with a geometric teal and blue design on the left and text on the right.

Approved by CPCAB | NCPS Recognised

📋 Please Note: All courses at Right Direction Counselling Services are subject to an informal interview upon application. This helps us ensure the course is the right fit for you at this point in your life, and gives you the opportunity to ask any questions before you commit. We look forward to meeting you.
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Starts May 2026(Day TBC)
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100% VirtualStudy from anywhere
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NCPS RecognisedNationally accredited
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Progress to Level 3Clear pathway to practice
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Right Direction CSTutors | Facilitators

About This Course

The CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CSK-L2) is your gateway into professional counselling training. Developed by the Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB), this qualification gives you the underpinning knowledge, skills and competencies to use counselling skills ethically and safely, whether you're beginning a counselling career or deepening your ability to support others in your current role.

Delivered entirely online by Right Direction Counselling Services, this course combines tutor/facilitator guidance, peer group learning and reflective practice in a warm, supportive virtual environment. You'll develop not just professional skills, but genuine insight into yourself and how you connect with others.

NCPS Recognised Qualification : This course has been assessed by the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society and meets their standards for introduction-level counselling and psychotherapy training.

Who Is This Course For?

No previous experience or training is required. This course is ideal for:

  • Anyone taking their first step towards becoming a professional counsellor
  • Professionals in health, social care or education who want to enhance their listening skills
  • Those in advocacy, mediation or support roles who work closely with people in difficulty
  • Anyone looking to improve personal relationships and develop deeper self-awareness
  • People who want to increase their employability in helping roles
  • Those who feel called to support others and want to do so safely and effectively

Course Details

Mode of Study100% Online (virtual classroom)
ProviderRight Direction Counselling Services
Awarding BodyCPCAB (Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body)
Qualification Number500/7938/4
Guided Learning Hours90 hours (minimum)
Total Qualification Time170 hours
Credit Value17 credits
Entry Requirements Minimum Age 18 Years. Students need to have an adequate level of literacy, handwriting skills and basic computer skills.
Start DateMay 2026 (TBC)
AssessmentCoursework, reflective assignments, observed skills practice and an external assessment component
Attendance Students need to maintain a 90% minimum attendance rate throughout the course.
ProgressionSuccessful completion leads naturally onto the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CST-L3)
AdmissionAll applicants are invited to a short informal interview before enrolment is confirmed

What You'll Learn

Across your chosen study period you'll develop a rich set of skills, knowledge and personal insight:

🎧 Core Counselling Skills

Active listening, empathy, reflecting, paraphrasing, open questioning and the ethical use of counselling skills in practice.

🧠 Self-Awareness & Reflection

Develop a deeper understanding of yourself, your values and how your personal history influences how you relate to others.

⚖️ Ethics & Safe Practice

Understand professional boundaries, confidentiality, safeguarding principles and how to use counselling skills responsibly.

🤝 Helping Relationships

Learn how to build trust and rapport, manage the helping relationship, and understand the psychological basis of effective support.

📝 Reflective Practice

Keep learning journals, write reflective reviews and develop the habit of thoughtful self-evaluation central to all counselling work.

👥 Group Learning

Participate in group exercises, role plays, and peer feedback are core parts of how counsellors learn in a safe, supportive setting.

Current Study Format

CPCAB CSK-L2 qualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Application Form

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