CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) is one of the UK’s leading awarding organisations for counselling training. The Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills is an introductory course that teaches the core skills and attitudes needed to begin working effectively and ethically in a helping role. This qualification is not about becoming a counsellor just yet—it’s about laying the foundations through active listening, empathy, reflection, and self-awareness.
Level 2 is often described as a life-changing experience. Many students discover that the skills they learn apply far beyond the classroom. You’ll begin to understand not just how to support others more effectively, but also how your own experiences, values, and emotions shape the way you communicate and relate to others. It's not therapy—but it can be very therapeutic.
This course provides both practical and emotional insight. Key areas of study include: Core counselling skills: active listening, reflecting, summarising, and questioning Understanding the counselling relationship and its boundaries Developing empathy and unconditional positive regard The importance of self-awareness and personal development Introduction to ethical frameworks and safe practice Working with diversity and respecting individual difference Training includes a mix of classroom teaching, group discussions, skills practice, role-play, reflective journaling, and written assignments.
Successfully completing CPCAB Level 2 opens the door to Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies, where you begin to explore counselling theory and deepen your practice. For many, Level 2 confirms that counselling is more than just an interest—it’s a calling.