CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Theraputic Counselling

Course Description

This level 4 Diploma in therapeutic Counselling is underpinned by a Humanistic core model.

The course runs over two years, one day per week in college. Class time is structured into sessions which consist of studying:

• Counselling theory
• Counselling practice
• Self development
• Group training supervision
• Professional framework issues
• As an agency Counsellor

The course is certificated by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB) in line with the Qualifications and Credit Framework.

Course Structure

The course facilitates learners to achieve the seven following units. These are based on the processes in the CPCAB model:

• Work ethically and safely as an agency counsellor
• Work within a counselling relationship
• Work with client diversity
• Work within a user centred agency approach
• Work with self awareness in the counselling process
• Work within a framework of counselling theory, skills and techniques
• Work self reflectively

Each unit has a learning outcome and assessment criteria which need to be met in order for candidates to successfully complete the course.

Over the two years, the weekly sessions will cover professional and ethical awareness and application to clinical practice; further development of clinical skills; deeper exploration of the course’s core theoretical counselling model; development of personal awareness, application to client work and acknowledgement of when personal theory needs to take place; participation in a group of a part supervision and PPD.

As regards work which students are expected to produce, there is a requirement of a weekly journal; at least 2 Self-Reviews; 2 Case Study presentations and written evaluations; at least 2 written assignments per year; production of an audio tape and a DVD with written evaluations and the completion of a 2 part External Assessment.

In addition to class attendance, there will be a formal requirement for the following:

• Gaining a placement on which a minimum of 100 hours of formally contracted counselling within an agency setting, to be arranged by students in conjunction with the course leader.
• Clinical supervision of placement, which is to be arranged and fees paid for by the student Counsellor.
• There is a formal requirement for student Counsellors to be responsible for engaging in and arranging a minimum of 10 hours external personal counselling, of which, the cost will not be included in the course fees.
• Students will need to spend a minimum of eight hours per week, outside of class based hours, preparing for sessions, reading, writing journals and essays, etc.

Although it is expected the students will continue form year one into year two, there may be reasons why the college/tutors and/ or a students feel that a year out may well be useful for an individual before completion of the course in total.

To be regarded as proficient and to be awarded a Diploma in Counselling students will need to have met all criteria required, passed the External Assessments and to have received reports of proficient clinical practice form placements, supervisors etc

Entry Requirements

Applicants will also be required to complete a 1500 word essay self statement and provide a reference from their most recent Counselling Course tutor (if possible).

Candidates must have acquired both the Certificate in Counselling Skills and the Certificate in Counselling Studies/Theory, or equivalent qualifications

Course Progression Routes

Progression to Degree Level or Masters if students already have a degree.

Course Career Prospects

This is a nationally recognised qualification for people who want to work as a counsellor in a variety of settings including agencies, private practice, and doctors’ surgeries. Some employers do ask for qualified counsellors to be an accredited member of the BACP. Further details on this can be found on the website below.

Useful websites:

• www.bacp.co.uk
• www.ento.co.uk

If you are unsure about your career progression please contact the Careers Team.

Specific Course Information Contact

Academy of Wellbeing Academic Administration, 01302 553951 or 01302 553584