If you have already gained counselling skills and theory qualifications with a minimum of 150 guided learning hours (GLH) with another awarding organisation, it may be possible to start at Level 4. However, you’ll need to speak to a CPCAB tutor at the training centre as they select students for their courses and will be able to assess your relevant prior learning through a process called Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
Important considerations beyond qualifications
Each training centre has its own entry requirements and assessment processes, so what’s accepted can vary between providers. Some centres may require you to complete specific modules or demonstrate particular competencies before progressing to Level 4, even if you have prior qualifications.
It’s worth considering more than just the financial aspects, though. When you embark on your counselling training, you are starting on a journey that will change your life. Taking time to choose a training centre that meets your individual preferences and learning needs is just as important as finding the right entry point for your existing qualifications.
Our recommendation
We encourage prospective students to have an informal chat with us about their background and aspirations. This helps us understand not only your existing qualifications but also your learning style, career goals, and whether our approach to training aligns with what you’re looking for in your counselling education.
Remember, the counselling training journey is highly personal, and finding the right fit between your experience, learning preferences, and a training centre’s philosophy can make all the difference to your development as a counsellor.