The Level 3 Certificate in counselling provides knowledge and understanding of the main core theories and theorists that underpin counselling and addresses the nature of psychological problems and how they may be approached. The specialist skills and knowledge gained in this qualification will be applicable in a range of working contexts. It will enable learners to understand the need for a firm grasp of a coherent theoretical approach to counselling or supporting others.
The qualification has three components:
- Counselling Theory
- Counselling Skills
- Developing Reflective Practice in Counselling
These will be assessed through a written exam, observation of skills practice role plays, and written work completed in the format of journal reflections. You will be expected to complete a minimum of 3-4 hours of independent study outside of the allocated weekly classes to ensure that you have gained knowledge and/or experience to support you on the qualification
The qualification is graded at Pass, Merit or Distinction. Each component is a percentage of your overall mark:
Counselling Skills - role play 25%
This component prepares learners to work with their own clients in a supervised placement. Learners will use strategies and interventions in counselling sessions in the form of role plays, before reflecting on their responses.
Developing Reflective Practice in Counselling - journal 40%
This component will enable learners to work towards becoming a reflective practitioner of counselling by considering self-awareness, supervision and issues of difference and diversity. This component will support them in preparing for work in a supervised placement.
Counselling Theory - exam 35%
This component will provide learners with the knowledge and understanding of the main approaches to counselling and the theorists that underpin most counselling practice. It will enable them to embark on evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of using various approaches to counselling.