CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CST-L3)
Take Your Next Step in Becoming a Qualified Counsellor
CPCAB Level 2 (CST-L3)
About This Course
The CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CST-L3) is the second key stage on the counselling training pathway. Building directly on the skills developed at Level 2, this qualification deepens your understanding of counselling theory, self-awareness and the ethical practice of counselling — preparing you for the rigours of diploma-level professional training.
Delivered entirely online the Level 3 brings together reflective practice, theoretical study, observed skills work, and group learning in a supportive and challenging environment led by experienced practitioners.
Whether you completed your Level 2 with us or elsewhere, this course will significantly strengthen your knowledge base and personal development as a practitioner-in-training. This is where real depth begins.
Who Is This Course For?
Entry requirement: a Level 2 counselling skills qualification (or equivalent). This course is designed for:
Those who have completed Level 2 and want to continue their counselling training journey
Practitioners in helping roles who want to deepen their understanding of counselling theory
Anyone who completed Level 2 elsewhere and wants to continue with a trusted provider
People committed to becoming a counsellor and want the theoretical foundation for diploma training and practical skills
Those who want a more sophisticated understanding of how people change through the counselling relationship
People seeking NCPS-recognised training as part of a credible pathway to practice
✅ NCPS Recognised Qualification: The CPCAB CST-L3 has been assessed by the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society and meets their standards for counselling studies training.
What You’ll Learn →
What You Will Learn
The Level 3 goes deeper into every dimension of counselling, building the knowledge and self-awareness that will underpin everything you do as a practitioner:
🎧 Core Counselling Skills
Develop and refine your skills through structured observation, practice, peer feedback and tutor supervision of recorded sessions.
🔍 Advanced Self-Awareness and Authenticity
Strengthen your therapeutic practice by deepening awareness of your patterns, triggers, strengths, and ways of relating.
⚖️ Professional & Ethical Practice
Deepen your understanding of ethical frameworks, professional boundaries, safeguarding and what it means to practise responsibly.
📚 Counselling Theory Integrated with Self
Discover counselling theory not as abstract ideas, but as practical frameworks for understanding yourself and others more deeply.
👥 Supervision Skills
Develop your skills in using group supervision as a reflective tool to support your professional growth as a counsellor.
📝 Extended Client Work
Move beyond single-session practice and work with the same “client” over multiple weeks, deepening both the therapeutic relationship and the depth of exploration.
Course Details →
Course Details
Mode of Study: 100% Online (virtual classroom)
Provider: Chambers Counselling Institute
Awarding Body: CPCAB (Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body)
Qualification Number: 500/7938/4
Guided Learning Hours: 90 guided learning hours
Total Qualification Time: 190+ total qualification hours |No placement hours required
Entry Requirements: Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (or equivalent)
Start Date: Sept 2026 (TBC)
Assessment: Coursework: Written assignments, reflective learning reviews, case study presentation, observed and recorded skills practice.
Attendance: Students need to maintain a 90% minimum attendance rate throughout the course.
Progression: Successful completion provides entry to the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Admission: All applicants are invited to a short, informal interview before enrolment is confirmed.
Course Formats →
Course Formats
Current Study Format - 18 Week Intensive
£1,895
/ Full Course
A focused, journey through level 3. Ideal for those ready to progress quickly and fully commit.
✓ Starts Sept 2026 (Day TBC) 1 day
✓ Weekly online sessions
✓ Tutor Support
✓ CPCAB registration included
Course Formats
Current Study Format - 30 Week Standard
£1,695
/ Full Course
A steady paced journey. Ideal if you're ready to commit and want more time to absorb learning
✓ Starts Sept 2026 (Day TBC) 1 day
✓ Weekly online sessions
✓ Tutor Support
✓ CPCAB registration included
Frequently Asked Questions
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No. The Level 2 is designed as an introductory qualification; no prior counselling training or experience is required. All you need is an open mind, a genuine interest in helping others, and a willingness to reflect on yourself.
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That’s absolutely fine, you’re very welcome here. For Level 2, there is no formal academic entry requirement. What matters most is your motivation, your life experience, and your genuine desire to learn and remain curious. Many excellent counsellors join the profession through non-academic pathways. This is a skills-based course, and your tutor/facilitator will provide guidance and support with written work. Above all, we are interested in who you are, not just what you know on paper.
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Yes, all places are subject to a short, informal online interview. It's a friendly conversation to make sure the course is the right fit for you, and gives you the chance to ask us anything before you commit. We look forward to meeting you.
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We’'ll confirm session times closer to the course start date, based on student preferences. Once enrolled, we'll survey all students in the cohort to find the best day and time for the group. We want the schedule to work for your life as much as possible.
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There is no mandatory requirement for personal therapy at Level 2, but we warmly encourage it. Counsellor training calls for deep self-reflection and personal exploration, and having your own therapeutic support can enrich your learning while safeguarding your wellbeing throughout. Many students find it genuinely valuable, and the profession regards it as increasingly important at higher levels of training.
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You don’t need to be technically confident. If you can join a video call, you already have what you need.
Here’s what will help you get the most from the course:
- A reliable internet connection
- A laptop, desktop, or tablet (a smartphone can work, but a larger screen is more comfortable)
- A webcam and microphone (built-in or external)
- A private, quiet space for sessions
We use familiar, user-friendly video conferencing software (Zoom). If you have any tech worries at all, just let us know we’ll try to help you get everything sorted.
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All sessions are delivered live via video conferencing (Zoom). You'll join group sessions with your tutor/facilitator and fellow students, take part in skills practice and role plays, and complete reflective assignments in your own time. Full guidance is provided on enrolment.
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The Level 2 qualification is a foundational course and does not, on its own, qualify you to practice as a counsellor. However, it is an important, nationally recognised first step, and successful completion leads directly to the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CST-L3).
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Yes. The CPCAB CSK-L2 is a regulated qualification with NCPS Recognised Qualification status from the National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society. Ofqual register number: 500/7938/4.
Apply for the CPCAB Level 3 Course
Complete the contact form, and we'll send you an interview invitation within 48 hours.
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If you need any further information, we will review your message and respond within 48 hours.