Counsellors provide support, guidance, and a safe space for people facing emotional, psychological, or life challenges. They work with individuals, couples, or groups to help them explore their feelings, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes. Counsellors listen carefully without judging, and help clients find their own solutions rather than giving direct advice. Common issues include stress, anxiety, grief, relationship problems, and trauma. In the UK, counsellors may work in schools, the NHS, private practice, charities, or workplaces. Becoming a counsellor usually involves completing a relevant qualification, such as a diploma or degree in counselling, and gaining experience through supervised practice.
Counsellors in the UK typically earn between £23,000 and £40,000 per year, depending on experience and location.
There are over 30,000 practicing counsellors in the UK, with demand increasing each year due to a greater awareness of mental health.
Most counsellors work 37 to 40 hours a week, though part-time and flexible opportunities are common.
Works within schools to support students with academic, social, and emotional issues, helping them to overcome challenges and achieve their potential.
Supports individuals struggling with substance misuse or addictive behaviours, providing guidance and strategies for recovery.
Helps people cope with grief and loss, offering a safe space to discuss feelings and develop coping mechanisms.
Complete your GCSEs, including English and a science, and consider A Levels in psychology, sociology, or health and social care.
Most counselling courses and universities require at least five GCSEs at grades 4 or above, including English. Choosing relevant A Level subjects like psychology or health and social care can provide a strong foundation for future study and demonstrate your commitment to the field.
Enrol in a recognised counselling course, such as a Level 3 Certificate or a university degree in counselling or a related subject.
There are various routes to gain counselling qualifications. You can start with a Level 2 or 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills, available at many colleges. Alternatively, you could pursue a degree in counselling, psychology, or a related area. Courses should be accredited by a professional body such as the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Seek volunteer opportunities in support or listening roles to develop interpersonal skills and gain practical experience.
Many organisations, such as helplines, youth centres, or charities, offer volunteer roles where you can support people in need. This experience is highly valued and can provide insight into what counselling involves, helping you build vital communication and empathy skills.
Take part in a supervised counselling placement as part of your training.
Accredited counselling courses typically include a placement, where you work under supervision to support real clients. This practical component allows you to apply your learning, receive feedback, and develop professional competence. Most courses require a minimum number of supervised hours, so it's important to choose a placement that meets these requirements.
Register with a professional organisation such as the BACP, UKCP, or NCS to demonstrate your professionalism and commitment.
Membership with a professional body is highly recommended and often required by employers. Organisations like the BACP provide ethical guidelines, ongoing training, and accreditation. Registration enhances your credibility and helps clients feel confident in your services.
Engage in ongoing professional development to maintain and improve your skills.
Counselling is a field that requires lifelong learning. Attend workshops, seminars, and additional courses to stay up to date with best practices and new approaches. Supervision and reflective practice are also important to ensure you provide safe and effective support to your clients.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Counsellor. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
You can get into this job through:
You could do a diploma, degree or postgraduate course in counselling or psychotherapy.
You might be able to study counselling alongside another subject like psychology, sociology or criminology.
You should look for a course that includes practical skills training and supervised work placements.
You'll usually need:
You could start by doing an introduction to counselling course. This can last up to 3 months and can help you decide if counselling is the right career for you.
After that, you can do further training and complete courses like:
You can find out more about the recommended training to become a counsellor from the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP).
Entry requirements for these courses vary.
You'll find it useful to have paid or unpaid work experience in counselling. You can find counselling volunteering opportunities through Do IT and the National Council for Voluntary Organisations (NCVO).
You can volunteer and do training courses with counselling organisations, such as Relate, Samaritans and Cruse.
This can be useful experience before you take up professional counselling training.
There's a lot of competition for paid work. Many counsellors do a mix of part time, voluntary and private work.
Counselling is often a second or additional career, and life experience is highly valued.
You may be expected to undergo counselling yourself as part of your training and reflect on it with your course supervisor. This might be needed to become accredited.
You could become a member of an organisation listed on the Professional Standards Authority's counselling register. This may be helpful when looking for work, and for many jobs it is essential.
You can find out more about careers in counselling from:
You can also explore other careers in the psychological professions.
Explore other careers or use our AI to discover personalised paths based on your interests.
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