Course overview

Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills City of Bristol College

This qualification teaches in-depth knowledge of the use of counselling skills in everyday life and work, and the approaches that underpin the use of these skills.

The objectives of this qualification are for students to develop counselling skills, understand the different approaches involved in the use of counselling skills and appreciate the importance of self-development.

If you’re aged 19+ and this will be your first Level 3 course, it could be free for you under the government’s National Skills Fund (NSF) scheme. Get in touch to find out more.

Dates and applications

Please hover over the ‘i’ button to find out more about course fees and applications.

Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills College Green Centre
Bristol
Course Code
LGP1257D01-3-24-25
Dates
14/03/2025 - 05/03/2026
Duration
1 years
Days
Date/Day(s) Being Finalised
Hours per week
4.50
Start Time
09:30
Location
College Green Centre
Fee
You may be able to study for free, if you are aged 19+ and do not hold a full Level 3 qualification. Even if you do, you may be eligible to be fully funded for a 2nd depending on your home postcode. If you aren't eligible for a free course - the cost is £2225. You can apply for a loan to cover your fees. Please contact us to discuss your payment options or visit our financial support page.
Enquire Apply
Course Code Dates Duration Days Hours per week Start Time Location Fee
LGP1257D01-3-24-25 14/03/2025 - 05/03/2026 1 years Date/Day(s) Being Finalised 4.50 09:30 College Green Centre
You may be able to study for free, if you are aged 19+ and do not hold a full Level 3 qualification. Even if you do, you may be eligible to be fully funded for a 2nd depending on your home postcode. If you aren't eligible for a free course - the cost is £2225. You can apply for a loan to cover your fees. Please contact us to discuss your payment options or visit our financial support page.
Enquire Apply

Additional information

Who is this course for?

This qualification does not qualify you to practise as a counsellor; it is for students interested in using counselling skills as part of their functional role in a wide range of sector areas, or looking to progress towards accredited counsellor status with one of the counselling professional accrediting bodies.

What you'll learn

Units include:

  • Developing counselling skills
  • Theoretical approaches in the use of counselling skills
  • Working ethically with counselling skills
  • Counselling skills and diversity
  • Counselling skills and personal development

Course entry requirements

To join this course you will need to either have completed a Level 2 qualification in Counselling, or have had some experience of using ‘counselling-type skills’ in a paid or voluntary role. You will also need to have GCSE English at Grade C/4 or above. You will also need to successfully complete an interview.

In this course, you will learn and practice skills and theories which may lead you to reflect upon your own life and experiences. The work can feel personal and revealing so we look for someone who is reasonably emotionally robust.

How is the course delivered and assessed?

The course is delivered in the classroom, over one year, one day per week.

You will be assessed through skills observations (after plenty of practice and reflection) and written work.

Future career and study opportunities

After completing this qualification, you could progress to Level 4 or foundation degree courses in counselling.

This qualification does not qualify you to practice as a counsellor. However, it can support your progression within employment in a number of roles including

  • support worker (supported living)
  • healthcare support service worker
  • clinical healthcare support worker
  • mental health support worker
  • information, advice and guidance worker
  • health education/health promotion worker

Additional costs

As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery. 

If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding Bursary.

  • Career Coach
    For guidance on which career path to take, to explore career options related to our courses, find out which careers are in demand, and then get the training you need.

What next?

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