The CPCAB Level 4 course deepens your understanding of counselling theory and practice, preparing you to work with clients in a structured, ethical, and empathetic way. You’ll explore: Advanced counselling skills and interventions In-depth understanding of major therapeutic approaches Mental health awareness and working with risk Working within ethical frameworks and professional boundaries Developing a counselling identity and theoretical model Diversity, equality, and anti-oppressive practice Supervision and reflective practice Case studies, assessments, and client work Most importantly, you’ll complete at least 100 hours of supervised counselling practice with real clients, usually through an approved placement.
One of the core components of CPCAB Level 4 is your placement. You’ll work with real clients under supervision in an agency or organisation. This is where your learning comes alive—putting your skills into practice, dealing with ethical issues in real time, and gaining confidence as a developing practitioner. Most training centres, like Aspire Counselling Academy, help you find and secure placement opportunities and support you throughout the process.
CPCAB Level 4 is a demanding course, both emotionally and academically. It requires: Commitment to regular attendance, study, and placement work Openness to personal development and emotional processing Reflective journaling and in-depth written assignments Working with supervision and receiving constructive feedback Developing a professional mindset and therapeutic boundaries But with that comes growth. Many students describe Level 4 as life-changing—not just for the skills gained, but for the insight, resilience, and purpose it brings.
After completing the Level 4 Diploma, you’ll be eligible to apply for professional registration with organisations such as: BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy) NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society) UKCP (if progressing to postgraduate level) You can then begin working as a qualified counsellor in private practice, in agencies, schools, health services, or charities.