Foundation Counselling Skills (Distance Learning)

Counselling and Wellbeing

Develop core counselling skills you can use in a range of interpersonal and consultative roles.

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Counselling and Wellbeing

Develop core counselling skills you can use in a range of interpersonal and consultative roles.

START DATE

January 2026

ATTENDANCE

Part-time

LEARNING MODE

Distance Learning

Course summary

The Distance Learning Foundation Counselling Skills course trains you in core counselling skills which can be applied in a range of interpersonal 'helping' and consultative roles.

You will:

  • Build a critical understanding of counselling theory and research
  • Learn what works in effective counselling practice

You will practise your skills weekly in online experiential sessions with your classmates. These sessions can be recorded, and you will receive feedback from lecturers and peers during sessions or by email.

This course is designed for working professionals, with flexible scheduling and distance learning options.

For the schedule for January 2026, please contact Dr Lucia Berdondini, Course Leader.

Apply now (credit bearing)
Apply now (non credit bearing)

PG Cert Counselling Skills for a Multicultural World

The PG Cert will be a combination of the short course Foundation Counselling Skills (credit-bearing) and Intercultural Counselling Practice and Processes (credit-bearing). 

If you complete both courses with credits, you will receive the PG Cert Counselling Skills for a Multicultural World.

What you'll learn

This is an accredited Level seven (postgraduate) short course worth 30 credits. 

You can study this course:

  • As a stand-alone short course without credit
  • As a credit-bearing course
  • As part of a Postgraduate Certificate 

Please note: this course is not a preparation route for UEL’s MA or PG Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy.

The course will cover the following topics:

 

  1. Range of counselling theories and integration
  2. Research evidence - effectiveness in therapy and the ‘common factors’ research
  3. Helping relationships

          a. Developing a collaborative alliance

          b. Relationship qualities - empathy, acceptance and genuineness

4. Core counselling skills

          a. Attending

          b. Listening

          c. Empathy

          d. Probing and challenging

5. Moving Forward - Developing goals and plans

 

You will develop your self-awareness, self-reflection and counselling skills through practical sessions, where you will give and receive constructive feedback.

How you'll learn

Each week, you will take part in: 

  • Pre-recorded lectures (one and a half hours)
  • Live online skills practice sessions (one and a half hours) 

The course runs over 12 weeks and is delivered fully online through distance learning. You will be taught by experienced lecturers with professional qualifications in psychotherapy or counselling psychology. Throughout the course, you will receive personalised feedback on your progress. 

Learning and assessment 

You will take part in experiential activities and practise your counselling skills with peers. 

At the end of the course, you will submit: 

  • One 15-minute video of a skills practice session in the role of listener
  • One 15-minute video reflecting critically on your development

Entry requirements

Academic requirements

Accepted qualifications

To apply, you will need one of the following: 

  • A minimum 2:2 honours degree in any subject
  • A professional qualification as a: Social worker, Registered nurse, Medical doctor, Chartered psychologist
  • You will also need to submit a personal statement explaining your background and reasons for applying.

International qualifications

We accept a wide range of international and European qualifications, as well as A-levels, the International Baccalaureate, and BTEC qualifications. Please visit our International page for full details.

English Language requirements

You will need: 

  • An overall Academic IELTS score of 6.5
  • At least 6.0 in Writing and Speaking
  • At least 6.0 in Reading and Listening 

We also accept recognised equivalent qualifications. 

If you do not meet the academic English language requirements for your course, you may be eligible to enrol on a pre-sessional English course. 

Course length depends on your current level of English and your degree requirements. 

We offer: 

  • A five-week course
  • A ten-week course

Mature applicants and those without formal qualifications

As an inclusive university, we recognise that those who have been out of education for some time may not have the formal qualifications usually required. We welcome applications from those who can demonstrate their enthusiasm and commitment to study and have the relevant life/work experience that equips them to succeed on the counselling short course. We will assess this from the information provided in your application, or we may request additional information, such as a CV or attendance at an interview. Please note that some courses require applicants to meet the entry requirements outlined.

Admissions policy / Terms of Admittance

We are committed to fair admissions and access by recruiting students regardless of their social, cultural or economic background. Our admissions policy sets out the principles and procedures we use to admit new students for all courses offered by the university and its partners.

Further advice and guidance

You can speak to a member of our Applicant Engagement team on +44 (0)20 8223 3333, Monday to Friday from 9am to 5pm. Alternatively, you can visit our Information, Advice and Guidance centre.

Fees and Funding

  • Non credited: £697
  • Credited:  £1900

Your future career

This course helps you apply counselling skills in your current role, improving your communication and relationships with others. 

You will gain a strong foundation in counselling theory and practice, supporting further study in this field. 

Career opportunities 

You can use this course to progress into roles in: 

  • Healthcare
  • Social services
  • Humanitarian and psychosocial support

Graduates often go on to develop their careers in these sectors.

Course FAQs

Is this course suitable if I want to become a qualified counsellor?

No. This course provides an introduction to counselling skills and theory, but it is not a qualification route into professional counselling. It is designed to support personal development and enhance skills for use in professional roles.

How much time should I commit each week?

You will typically spend around three hours per week in structured learning, including pre-recorded lectures and live online skills sessions. You should also allow additional time for independent study and practice.

Will I get practical experience or is it all theory?

This course includes weekly practical skills sessions where you will practise counselling techniques with peers. You will give and receive feedback to support your development, alongside learning the theory behind effective counselling.

Can I study this course alongside full-time work?

The course is designed for working professionals, with flexible distance learning and scheduled online sessions that allow you to study alongside your job.

What can I do after completing this course?

You can use this course to enhance your communication and interpersonal skills in roles such as healthcare, social services, education, or humanitarian work. It can also support progression to further study in related areas, such as a Postgraduate Certificate.