Counselling Studies CPCAB Level 3 Certificate

The CPCAB Level 3 Counselling Studies course leads to the CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Applied Counselling Studies (CAST-L3) a nationally regulated qualification awarded by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body (CPCAB) - the only Ofqual approved awarding body to specialise in the field of counselling and supervision.

This qualification is intended for candidates who have undertaken the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling skills, or equivalent. (As a guide, an equivalent counselling skills qualification should be a minimum of 75 GLH, or a combined skills and theory course of 150 GLH. Distance learning courses are not equivalent).

It is suitable for those who want to take the next step in training to become a counsellor, learn more about counselling theory, ethics and mental health, or are looking towards working as a professional counsellor in an agency setting.

See what some of our former students say about the course:

• "Interesting theory and practical case studies aimed for people that want to progress in a career as a counsellor." - Juliette (fast-track L3)

• "This course helps you grow as an individual and gives you insight to why people are as they are." – Carla (fast-track L3)

• "A step-up from L2 that will require you to think a lot more about what therapy is, where it comes from and where you are going with it." – Mark (fast-track L3)

• "A fantastic course that provides you with a great foundation in counselling theories. The course allows for the further development in counselling skills whilst also promoting self-awareness in oneself. Both an educational and enlightening experience." – Shannon (fast-track L3)

• "Intense. Don't fall behind as it is difficult and challenging to catch up." – Amanda (fast-track L3)

• "You need to commit to it. There is a lot of written work (that is needed to back up your learning) so attend sessions, stay organised and up to date and you’ll be fine." – Rachel (fast-track L3)

• "Would highly recommend it, just wish it didn't take so many years to become qualified." – Claire (evening L3)

• "Absorbing and challenging. It could change your life." – Liz (evening L3)

• "A good mix of theory and practical work where you are able to explore yourself and put into practice counselling skills." – Rosie (evening L3)

• "Life-changing." – Lucy (evening L3)

• "Fantastic! Do it." – Neil (evening L3)

• Other comments included: 'They genuinely care about the students' and 'Though my work is based around psychology I have learned so much about myself and also how to really listen to my service users, it has been an incredible journey'.

Assessment methods

Assessment will be based on completion of a portfolio. To successfully complete the course you will need to be proficient in both components.

Entry requirements

Candidates must be 19 years of age or over. Successful completion of the CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills or equivalent qualification (RPL) approved by the tutor and a successful interview. Please note, many online level 2 courses are not accepted as RPL. The level 2 course must contain skills work with other students and taught lessons by their tutor. Self-study courses are not equivalent.

Please be aware that course delivery includes experiential exercises and candidates will be required to draw on their own previous life experiences, expected to have achieved a degree of self-awareness in order to enhance their own learning and that of others and will be required to engage without harm to themselves or others with confidential issues in a group setting.

Entry process

Priority is given to our progressing level 2 students

The maximum number of spaces available for this course is 18 (governed by CPCAB)

Not all previous level 2 courses meet the entry requirements for level 3. For online courses you will need to have taken part in synchronous learning (i.e. via zoom) with a minimum of 75 GLH (counselling skills) and 150 GLH (combined counselling skills and theory).

The level 2 Free Courses in England course is not an equivalent level 2 course for the purposes of direct entry to level 3.

GCSE English at grade C/grade 4 is recommended.

The application process will be to apply, to return the pre-interview questionnaire when completed, supportive tutor reference and interview

Career progression

Completion of the level 3 course will allow you to progress onto the Foundation Degree in Counselling or level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.