Certificate courses range from approximately £999 to £1,200 per year. Diploma courses currently range from £2,200 to £3,000 a year, though some providers charge significantly more. Foundation degrees can be up to £6,000 a year and master’s degrees between £12,000 and £15,000, depending upon the course provider. See BACP for more info: Training to become a counsellor or psychotherapist.
You’ll also need to allow for all the other related expenses:
- Supervision – when you start seeing clients (at diploma level), you’ll need regular and ongoing supervision. Individual supervision costs vary from around £55 to £75 an hour, while group supervision ranges from £25 to £80 per person per session. Many supervisors offer reduced rates for students, so it’s worth enquiring about student discounts when seeking supervision.
- Personal therapy – on diploma courses, students are required to undergo therapy themselves. Personal therapy can cost between £40 and £80 per session, with London prices typically starting from £50 per session upwards. Many therapists offer concessionary rates for students, so be sure to ask about reduced fees when contacting potential therapists.
- Insurance – if you’re seeing clients, you should be covered by professional indemnity insurance. Some placement providers will cover you under their insurance, but you should always check. Insurance can cost around £80-100 a year – some insurers offer discounts for professional body members.
- Professional membership – At diploma level, Adept Central recommends that students join the BACP, UKCP, or a similar organisation. Student membership is subsidised and currently costs approximately £50-78 per year.
- Books and stationery
- Conferences and events
- Travel and parking
- Childcare – as counselling or psychotherapy is often a second career, you may have a family to look after whilst you train.
Quality assurance through CPCAB accreditation
At Adept Central, we deliver CPCAB-accredited courses, ensuring our training meets nationally recognised standards. CPCAB is a well-established awarding organisation whose qualifications are respected by employers and all major professional bodies (BACP, NCPS), providing you with a solid foundation for your counselling career whilst maintaining flexibility in your professional development options.