• Access Duration: 12 Months
• Awarded by: NCFE CACHE
• Guided Learning Hours (GLH): 120
• Total Qualifications Time (TQT): 160
• Qualification Level: 2
• Qualification Number: 600/0728/X

• Gain a complete understanding of the principles, concepts, and theories in counselling.
• Learn to demonstrate active listening skills and build a rapport with your clients.
• Understand and apply professional standards in counselling practice.
• Learn to establish goals and develop an action plan in collaboration with your clients.
• Learn how to engage in reflective practice to improve counselling skills.

• Counsellors
• Support workers
• Healthcare Assistants
• Mental Health Workers
• Individuals working in education, social care, nursing, children’s care, or youth work
• Individuals in voluntary and community work

• This course can be completed through two flexible study options to suit your lifestyle:
  • Standard Course Plan (4 months) – ideal for learners balancing other commitments.
  • Fast Track Option (2 months) – perfect for those who can dedicate intensive study time.
• Most learners complete within their chosen timeframe, though some may finish earlier depending on personal circumstances and available study time. We accommodate your pace with unlimited support for 12 months. This Level 2 Certificate requires approximately 120 guided learning hours.

T&C apply

Knowledge & Understanding: Show your grasp of key counselling concepts, communication techniques, and the principles of ethical and effective practice.

Practical Application: Demonstrate how you would apply counselling skills in real-life scenarios to build trust, listen actively, and support individuals with empathy and professionalism. 

Reflection & Personal Growth: Reflect on your learning journey, exploring how developing your counselling skills can enhance your personal and professional relationships. 

Assessment & Grading:  You’ll receive comprehensive self-study materials, including an assessment designed to help you demonstrate your understanding of all learning outcomes. To successfully achieve this qualification, you must complete the assessment. 

Tutor Support:  Our experienced and supportive tutors will be with you every step of the way—available via email, WhatsApp, online chat, or video discussions to offer guidance, feedback, and encouragement throughout your studies. 

Ready to begin your journey?
Click ‘Enquire Now’ to connect with our team and start building the confidence and skills to make a real difference through counselling today.

Develop the essential knowledge, understanding, and confidence to begin a meaningful career in counselling and emotional support with the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills. This nationally recognised qualification equips you with practical communication and listening skills used by professional counsellors, preparing you for roles in health and social care, education, and community support. It’s the perfect first step for those aspiring to work in counselling, mental health, or any career focused on helping others.

Here are some careers you could pursue, along with typical UK salaries (Source: Glassdoor):

• Support Worker – £27,000
• Mental Health Worker – £29,000
• Assistant Counsellor – £45,000
• Healthcare Assistant – £45,000
• Helpline Operator – £45,000
• Counsellor – £50,000

With this award, you can also progress to higher-level CACHE Certificates or Diplomas, taking on more specialised roles or leadership positions and boosting your earning potential over time.

Completing the NCFE CACHE Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills gives you the foundational knowledge, communication techniques, and emotional understanding to support others effectively and empathetically. This nationally recognised qualification helps you build confidence in active listening, self-awareness, and ethical practice skills that are invaluable in both professional and personal settings.

Potential Academic Progression Pathways

• Step 01: NCFE CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills
• Step 02: Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
• Step 03: Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling, Psychology

Alternative Pathways

• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Understanding Mental Health
• NCFE CACHE Level 3 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care

The Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation (Ofqual) is a non-ministerial government department responsible for regulating qualifications, exams, and assessments in England. Ofqual ensures that all qualifications offered by recognised awarding organisations meet rigorous national standards, giving you confidence that any Ofqual-regulated certificate is high-quality and widely accepted by employers and universities.

RQF

The Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) is the system used in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland to standardise qualifications by level and size. Overseen by regulatory bodies such as Ofqual, the RQF ensures qualifications are consistent, transparent, and easily understood by learners, employers, and higher education institutions. All qualifications listed on the RQF are approved and awarded by recognised awarding organisations.