CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies

This qualification is intended for candidates who have already acquired a recognised qualification in counselling skills and want to:

• take the next step in training to become a counsellor
• learn more about counselling theory, ethics and mental health
• be prepared for work as a professional counsellor in an agency setting

This qualification does not lead to employment. It is designed as a pre-practitioner training for professional counselling qualifications but it could also lead to employment in a related field.

For more information about this course call 01492 546 666 ext. 1729 or email counsellingapplications@gllm.ac.uk

Frequently Asked Questions - Counselling Level 3

How many weeks are the courses?
The on-site and online courses are 30 academic weeks.

How much is the Level 3?
Prices are subject to change each September but to give you an indication the prices in September 2024 were:

• Level 3 Agored Certificate in Counselling Skills & Theory - £679
• Level 3 CPCAB Certificate in Counselling Studies - £829.

Can I do my classes on-line?
Agored courses are delivered on site and are not accessible on-line. CPCAB courses are delivered fully on-line.

When does the course start, ie September and or January?
Start dates vary for our different courses depending on demand.

However, we usually offer the Agored Level 3 starting in both September and January and the CPCAB Level 3 is usually only offered in September.

What day/time is the course on?
The day varies for each course but the evening courses are usually run between 6pm and 9pm.

Can I pay in instalments?
Yes, you pay a minimum 20% deposit and then instalments are agreed with our Finance Department which are usually:

• 8 instalments for tuition fees over £500.

You will be asked to set up a standing order with your bank if you pay in instalments.

At what stage would I be able to work as a Counsellor?
On completion of the Level 4 Certificate of Higher Education in Counselling or BSc in Counselling

What is the best route to become a qualified Counsellor?
Complete Level 2, Level 3 & Level 4 HE Certificate in Counselling or complete the FSc/BSc in Counselling.

Do I have to do Level 2?
You can choose to start with the FSc in Counselling but if you opt to study via the Agored or CPCAB route, we ask everyone to complete Level 2 as it forms the base learning and a route for progression. The only exception would be if you have at least 30 hours of counselling experience which can be evidenced.

Can you give me more information about the placement?You
will be required to do a placement for 2 hours per week for level 3. In the placement you need to be able to practise the skills you are learning e.g. active listening, paraphrasing, summarising. The emphasis is on helping and communication skills not counselling so the settings that are suitable for placements are very varied.

Do you provide guidance on finding a suitable placement for the Level 3 hours?
We can provide some suggestions.

Students are expected to contact and confirm their own settings.

Can I do CPCAB Level 3 if I do Agored Level 2?
Not usually although it may be possible based on prior training and experience. CPCAB requires 75 hours of counselling training in order to start at Level 3 or 30 hours of counselling experience which can be evidenced.

Are either the CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies or the Agored Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Skills and Theory courses accredited by BACP?No, at level 3 it is not a requirement. Both courses meet the BACP standards regarding training hours that the BACP require when applying to be a member.

I am 18 but will be 19 halfway through the course.
You need to be 19 when the course begins for the on-site Agored classes. You can start the CPCAB Level 3 at 18 if you have the required guided learning hours/experience.

I am interested in attending the course with my friend/partner/relative/spouse, can we both attend?
Some of the content can be somewhat personal. Therefore, we would recommend that you select a different course session in order to attend separately, as you may get more from the course by attending different sessions.

Can I go straight to Level 3?
We ask learners to do Level 2 first unless they have completed a level 2 course in counselling with a minimum 45 hours training or have 30 hours of counselling experience which can be evidenced for the Agored Level 3 or a minimum of 75 hours training in counselling skills and theory or have 30 hours of counselling experience which can be evidenced for the CPCAB Level 3.