CPCAB Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills
CPCAB Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills
Explore foundational helping skills and discover if counselling is right for you
- Introduction to relational skills
- Insight into counselling roles
- Nationally recognised CPCAB award
- A supportive first step toward further counselling study
Format : Part-time, online or face-to-face
Duration: 10–12 weeks
Location: Online / St Ives, PE27
Schedule: Evenings (varies by intake)
About this course
This introductory CPCAB award gives you a supportive first step into counselling training. You will learn foundational helping and listening skills, explore the basics of counselling theory and practice, and build confidence in relational communication. This qualification does not qualify you as a counsellor, but it provides clarity, grounding and an essential foundation for future training.
This course is ideal if you are
- New to counselling and want to explore it safely
- Curious about helping roles and relational skills
- Seeking to enhance listening and communication in personal or professional life
- Considering professional counselling training
- Wanting structured, supportive, reflective learning
Course timings and content
Course format, dates and schedule
The next Introduction to Counselling Skills course is to be confirmed.
• The course is delivered on a part-time basis
• You can study either online or face to face
• The course runs over approximately 10–12 weeks
• In-person sessions take place at our centre in St Ives, PE27
• Teaching is scheduled in the evenings, with exact times varying by intake.
What you will learn
This award introduces you to core helping skills and foundational aspects of counselling:
• Using basic helping skills appropriately
• Establishing a helping interaction
• Communicating understanding of another person’s concerns
• Focusing on another’s agenda
• The role of self-awareness in helping work
• Types of listening and responding skills
• Using review and feedback to improve your learning
How you will learn
You will learn through:
• Interactive sessions (online or in person)
• Skills practice with peers
• Reflective exercises and group discussion
• Observing relational dynamics
• Structured tutor feedback
Entry requirements
• You must be aged 18 or over
• You must be literate in English
• No previous counselling experience or qualifications are required
• A willingness to engage in reflective learning and practice
Attendance and learning expectations
To complete the award and benefit fully from the learning, you are expected to:
• Attend a high percentage of sessions (typically 90%+)
• Practise skills during and between sessions
• Engage in reflective learning outside class
• Participate actively in group activities and discussion
Assessment
Assessment is internal and portfolio-based. You will compile evidence of your learning, participation, reflective work and developing relational skills throughout the course.
Where this award can take you
Completing this introductory award puts you in a strong position to progress into:
• CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
• Personal and professional development roles requiring strong relational skills
Course fees and what else you may need
The course fee is £600 including VAT.
Additional costs may include:
- CPCAB candidate registration fee (currently £182)
- Textbooks
- Optional additional support (therapy as desired)
Ready to begin your journey?
Our next Introduction to Counselling Skills course starts March 2026.
Apply here- word document, opens in new window
