Introduction to Counselling

Start

28 Jan 2026

End

12 Jun 2026

Are you considering a career in counselling or looking to enhance your communication skills in your current role. This Introduction to Counselling course is the perfect starting point for those interested in progressing to the HNC in Counselling, or for individuals working in sectors such as Care, Education, or Uniformed Services. Whether professionally or voluntarily where counselling skills can make a meaningful difference.

Apply online
Enquire online

Back to course results

Qualifications

1 National Unit credit at SCQF level 6: Successful completion of this course guarantees an interview for HNC Counselling.

Delivery

Delivered over 18 weeks in a hybrid format, this course combines online learning with practical, inperson sessions. You will attend one evening class per week, held online on Wednesdays for 3 hours from 6pm to 9pm.



Face to face sessions will take place at our Scottish Borders Campus on the following dates

  • 25 February 2026
  • 18 March 2026
  • 22 April 2026
  • 6 May 2026

Location

Online and Borders College, Scottish Borders Campus, Nether Road, Galashiels, TD1 3HE

Visit campus information

Entry requirements

This course is designed for 18 year olds and older who are in engaged in roles such as care work, education or uniformed services both professionally and voluntary where counselling skills will compliment performance.

Progression opportunities

This course is designed for those engaged in people facing roles professional and voluntary. It would be an ideal starter for anyone considering progression in their role or to a HNC Counselling course.

Assessments

This is a certificated course and includes formal assessment. All necessary materials will be provided by the tutor, with optional references to further reading for those who wish to deepen their understanding.Please note: Completion of this course does not qualify participants to practice as professional counsellors. However, it does equip learners with valuable active listening and interpersonal skills that can be applied in everyday and workplace settings.

Career Prospects

Ideal starter for anyone considering progression to COSCA certificate in Counselling Skills or the opportunity to progress to HNC Counselling.

Cost

£200.00 GBP

Course Content

Unit Covered



Counselling: Counselling Skills: An Introduction H8JJ 46


  • SCQF Level: 6
  • Topics Include:
    • What counselling is and its aims
    • Building effective counselling relationships
    • Understanding the counselling process
    • Overview of counselling models
    • The importance of selfawareness and personal development
    • Core counselling skills such as active listening, questioning, and reflection


Course Structure



The course is divided into two key components:

  • Theory: Explore foundational concepts and frameworks
  • Practical Skills: Apply counselling techniques in realworld scenarios


    • Assessment and Certification



    This is a certificated course and includes formal assessment. All necessary materials will be provided by the tutor, with optional references to further reading for those who wish to deepen their understanding.



    Please note: Completion of this course does not qualify participants to practice as professional counsellors. However, it does equip learners with valuable active listening and interpersonal skills that can be applied in everyday and workplace settings.

Questions?

Get in touch for further information, we’re here to help.

01896 66 26 00