CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills

Starting counselling training can feel exciting, uncertain and sometimes a little daunting.

Whether you’re considering counselling as a future career, hoping to strengthen your communication skills or simply curious about people and relationships, Level 2 offers a supportive place to begin.

At DATS, we believe learning counselling skills is about more than gaining knowledge. It’s about developing the confidence to listen, reflect, question and understand ourselves alongside others.

No previous counselling experience is needed—just a willingness to learn and engage with the process.

Is this course for me?

You might be wondering whether counselling is the right path for you.

You might be returning to learning after many years.

You might already work in a helping profession and want to deepen your communication and relational skills.

Or perhaps you’re simply curious about people and relationships.

Wherever you’re starting from, we’ll meet you there.

We don’t expect you to arrive with all the answers. We simply ask that you’re open to learning, reflection and participating in the journey.

What learning feels like

Counselling training is different from many other courses. Alongside developing practical counselling skills, you’ll spend time reflecting on yourself, your relationships and the way you connect with others.

Some sessions will leave you feeling confident. Others may challenge familiar ways of thinking. Some conversations may stay with you long after the session has finished. That’s all part of the learning process.

Learning happens through tutor input, discussion, skills practice, reflection and shared experience.

What you’ll gain

• Active listening and responding skills
• Communication and helping relationship skills
• Greater self-awareness
• Reflective practice
• Ethical awareness and professional boundaries
• Understanding of diversity and difference
• Confidence in relating to others

Alongside these skills, you’ll develop curiosity, empathy, presence and reflection.

Course at a glance

• Level 2 counselling skills start date 9th January 2027
• Qualification: CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
• Delivery: Live online sessions via Zoom
• Duration: 23 weekly sessions
• Learning: Tutor-led, experiential and reflective
• Assessment: Portfolio-based (no final written exam)
• The total fee for the CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills is £960. This inclusive fee covers:
  – All course tuition and tutor support
  – CPCAB registration fee (£185)
  – Access to course learning materials and resources
  – VAT
• Payment options may be available. Please get in touch if you’d like to discuss these.
• Progression: Successful completion can lead to CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies. DATS is currently developing its Level 3 course.

Payment options

Option 1 – Upfront Payment

• £200 non-refundable deposit to secure your place
• Remaining balance of £760 payable before the course begins

Option 2 – Monthly Payment Plan

• £200 non-refundable deposit to secure your place
• Followed by five monthly payments of £152

The deposit is non-refundable once a place has been confirmed. Payment plans must remain up to date throughout the course. If DATS is unable to run the course due to insufficient enrolments, all fees paid up to that point will be refunded in full. Further information regarding terms and conditions will be provided during enrolment.

The total course fee of £960 includes all applicable VAT and CPCAB registration costs, with no additional charges.

What happens after Level 2?

For many learners, Level 2 is the beginning rather than the destination. Some continue to CPCAB Levels 3 and 4, while others apply their skills in education, healthcare, social care, coaching, management and other people-focused professions.