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Introduction to Counselling

  • STRODE'S COLLEGE
  • ENTRY

Course Overview

Counselling is becoming increasingly popular and whether you want to take the first steps to training to becoming a professional counsellor; or to improve your listening skills for friends, family and in the workplace, this course is for you! What you will study is outlined below in more detail but this course will give you a lively and interesting introduction to the subject covering both counselling skills and basic theory. The course provides many opportunities to practice the skills with your colleagues on the course.

This course is taught at the Strodes College campus in Egham, Surrey, where you will learn from experienced teaching staff in a supportive learning environment.

Course Code

XEZZHEA1S0

Course Fee
£160.00
Start Time

19:00

End Time

21:00

End Date

Sat, 21 Nov 2026

Entry Requirements

No prior knowledge of counselling or life coaching, but a concern for & interest in people and a willingness to learn as much about yourself as abo...

Course Code

XEZZHEA1S0

Course Fee
£160.00
Start Time

19:00

End Time

21:00

End Date

Sat, 13 Feb 2027

Entry Requirements

No prior knowledge of counselling or life coaching, but a concern for & interest in people and a willingness to learn as much about yourself as abo...

Course Code

XEZZHEA1S0

Course Fee
£160.00
Start Time

19:00

End Time

21:00

End Date

Sat, 24 Apr 2027

Entry Requirements

No prior knowledge of counselling or life coaching, but a concern for & interest in people and a willingness to learn as much about yourself as abo...

Course information

The difference between counselling and other forms of communication.
Counselling Skills – i.e. paraphrasing, reflecting, summarising, etc and how to use them..
The importance of Body Language.
Active Listening.
The use of Questions. Open vs Closed Questions.
Boundaries.
Basic Counselling theory.
Diversity, Ethics & Confidentiality.
The Core Conditions: Empathy, being genuine and non-judgmental.
Skills practice.

2 x 7 hour workshops. 9-4pm over two Saturdays.

The course consists of eight weekly two hour sessions, with a short break in the middle, which will include a range of activities, including presentation and discussion of theory; self- awareness & development; acquisition of basic listening and counselling skills.
To maximise the benefit of the course you will be encouraged to keep a reflective journal.

8 weeks

You may wish to develop your knowledge and skills further or to acquire a professional qualification to enable you to practise as a counsellor; or a life coach. In order to be considered a qualified counsellor, you must have achieved at least the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling. The various progression options will be discussed on the course. Strode’s offer the Level 2 Award & Level 2 & 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills and the Level 4 Diploma.

A career in Counselling or Life Coaching

There is no formal assessment but the tutor and your peers will give you feedback during skills practice.

Certificate of Attendance

Level 2 in Counselling Skills.