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Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4)

An in-depth integrative course that provides a robust clinical platform from which newly qualified counsellors can flourish.

The level 4 diploma course runs part time over two years and includes a required 100-hour clinical placement. This is the qualifying course in the CPCAB progression route, where, upon successful completion, students gain qualified counsellor status and can begin counselling practice.

Venue:

The Willows Centre, Willows Counselling & Training, Swindon SN1 3LQ

Delivery format:

Face to Face

Course fees:

TBC

Course Information

The Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is a nationally regulated qualification awarded by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Awarding Body (CPCAB).

This 2 year part-time course provides students with the knowledge, skills and competencies to work as a therapeutic counsellor in an agency or organisational context in both health care and non-medical settings. Successful completion of the course means that you will be able to provide a therapeutic counselling service - initially within the context of an agency's service framework, but later, with experience and/or further training, in private practice. The course is taught with 3 central areas of focus; the knowledge and integration of counselling theory, the mastering of practical counselling skills, and the active enhancement of one's self-awareness and personal development in a deep and profound way.

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What the course involves

  • Attending the training session each week: minimum 80% attendance
  • Producing weekly reflective learning reviews of progress, self-awareness, and integration of theoretical knowledge
  • Attending tutorials with a personal tutor
  • Reading books from the required & recommended reading lists
  • Completion of a substantial portfolio of written work including written assignments and clinical case studies
  • Triad skills practice sessions and group training supervision
  • Group work, presentations, and reflective exercises
  • Completion of 100 hours of supervised clinical practice
  • A minimum of 20 hours of personal therapy during the course
  • Being assessed as proficient internally, and in the CPCAB external examination

The course will also require an additional time commitment for study, reading, research and written work in addition to attending the training session each week.

 

Clinical Placement

Students are required to complete 100 hours of Supervised Clinical Practice with a minimum of 5 clients during the 2 years of the Diploma course. It is the responsibility of the student to research and secure a placement to meet this aspect of the course. Students can begin clinical practice once assessed as 'fit to practice' by the course tutors - typically in the spring of Year 1. Students must secure and commence a suitable placement during Year 1 or they will be unable to proceed onto Year 2 of the course.

Student placement work must be supported by a minimum of 1.5 hours of clinical supervision per month. The cost of supervision will be covered by the student if not is not provided by the placement agency.

Entry Requirements

This qualification is intended for candidates who have gained counselling training qualifications up to Level 3, with a minimum of 180 Guided Learning Hours.

  • Minimum age is 19 years
  • Proven ability to meet the academic requirements
  • Strong emotional resources and emotional resilience
  • Willingness to proactively embrace and engage in a deep level of self-awareness and personal development
  • Full completion of the course application form including pre-course essay
  • Shortlisted applicants will be invited to interview

 

The intensity of Level 4 training means that it is not advisable for those dealing with ongoing emotional issues or enduring mental health difficulties.

Dates

Dates – September 2026 – July 2028

Day & Time - Thursdays, 9.30am – 3.45pm

Additions – 1x tutor led Saturday training session, plus 3x Saturday workshop of the students’ choosing* each year.

 

*(Saturday workshops are charged at an additional student rate cost)

Application Pack

The course leaflet can be viewed and downloaded using the links below. Applications should be returned via email to training-enquiries@willowscounselling.org.uk

Course leaflet

Hear from past students

The Level 4 Diploma course at Willows has allowed me to continue my counselling journey with confidence and a strong belief that I have gained firm foundations with which to work with a variety of clients.

Level 4 Student

I experienced the content of the course as wide ranging and thorough. My learning was supported my confident and competent tutors, and I have formed relationship with my peers which I believe will last a lifetime.

Level 4 Student

The support I have received has been incredible, and I could not imagine having done these courses anywhere else.

Level 4 Student

This course has honestly been life-changing! I can’t thank the tutors enough for creating such a stimulating and safe environment to learn. I am so grateful for how invested everyone is in trainees.

Level 4 Student

I have enjoyed my time at Willows, and feel well equipped to enter into the counselling profession with everything I need – knowing that the door is always open if I need any guidance. Thank you!

Level 4 Student

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