Counsellor

Counsellors help people to identify problems in their lives, allowing them to reflect, grow and consider alternative ways of doing things.

You will listen to people, offering them time, empathy, and respect to talk about issues and problems, with an aim of reducing confusion and helping them cope with challenges or make positive changes to their lives.
You will be impartial and non-judgmental, providing a safe and confidential environment for people to share their problems and receive guidance.

Counsellor is also known as Therapist.

Role Characteristics

Perform individual and group therapy
Build relationships, trust and respect with people
Encourage people to talk about their problems
Actively listen to people’s concerns and empathise with their situation
Support people to make positive decisions and choices
Work with other health and care professionals

Skills

Active listening
Empathy
Observation
Resilience
Problem-solving
Communication

Day in the life

Watch this video to find out more about work as a Counsellor.

Routes into this role

Here are some example routes that can lead into this role.

GCSEs

BTEC

T-Level

A-Levels

Undergraduate degree

Postgraduate degree

How to become

There are many routes into Counselling; these include university or college courses.

You will normally need 5 GCSEs including English, maths and sciences, or equivalent. You will normally need either A-Levels, BTEC or T-Levels depending on your preference in learning. However, volunteering and work experience is valued by employers.

Most employers will expect you to have undertaken an Undergraduate Degree in counselling or psychotherapy.

It is important to check your preferred course provider's entry requirements for guidance.

Where can this role lead

No matter what role you start in or where you are in your career path, there are always opportunities to develop and progress in health and care.

Once you are qualified as a Counsellor, you could specialise in an area like bereavement, relationships or addiction support.

You could develop into a team leader or management role. These usually involve less time spent supporting people with counselling, and more on supervising staff and working on strategy and policy implementation.