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Level 3 Diploma in Counselling Skills
Take your communication skills to an advanced level and build a deep, theoretical foundation in counselling and therapeutic support.
What does this qualification cover?
This official NCFE CACHE Level 3 qualification expands on the core foundations of counselling. You will study major theoretical models—such as humanistic and psychodynamic approaches—and learn how to apply these frameworks in everyday helping relationships. The course dives deeply into the ethics of counselling, managing diversity and boundaries, and the vital role of personal development and reflective practice.
Study format: Online and self-paced, supported by a dedicated personal tutor and monthly check-ins to keep you on track.
Work placement: No work placement or hands-on workplace experience is required to complete this qualification. All practical skill demonstrations are designed to be completed in simulated environments or via guided activities.
Duration: 6 months
Entry requirements: No rigid qualifications are required, but having a Level 2 in Counselling Skills or relevant experience in a supporting role is highly recommended. A good standard of written English is necessary to complete the Level 3 assignments.
It's ideal if you:
Want to progress your studies toward becoming a fully qualified, practicing counsellor
Work in a sector where high-level listening and support skills are essential, such as health, social care, teaching, or HR
Want to develop a profound level of self-awareness and understanding of human psychology
What you'll gain:
A professionally respected, nationally recognised Level 3 Diploma from NCFE CACHE (fully approved by Ofqual)
Valuable UCAS points to support applications for university-level study
Advanced, practical communication techniques that will immediately enhance your effectiveness in your current role
The essential prerequisite needed to progress onto Level 4 therapeutic counselling qualifications
Begin at your own pace — your tutor is with you every step of the way.
Take your communication skills to an advanced level and build a deep, theoretical foundation in counselling and therapeutic support.
What does this qualification cover?
This official NCFE CACHE Level 3 qualification expands on the core foundations of counselling. You will study major theoretical models—such as humanistic and psychodynamic approaches—and learn how to apply these frameworks in everyday helping relationships. The course dives deeply into the ethics of counselling, managing diversity and boundaries, and the vital role of personal development and reflective practice.
Study format: Online and self-paced, supported by a dedicated personal tutor and monthly check-ins to keep you on track.
Work placement: No work placement or hands-on workplace experience is required to complete this qualification. All practical skill demonstrations are designed to be completed in simulated environments or via guided activities.
Duration: 6 months
Entry requirements: No rigid qualifications are required, but having a Level 2 in Counselling Skills or relevant experience in a supporting role is highly recommended. A good standard of written English is necessary to complete the Level 3 assignments.
It's ideal if you:
Want to progress your studies toward becoming a fully qualified, practicing counsellor
Work in a sector where high-level listening and support skills are essential, such as health, social care, teaching, or HR
Want to develop a profound level of self-awareness and understanding of human psychology
What you'll gain:
A professionally respected, nationally recognised Level 3 Diploma from NCFE CACHE (fully approved by Ofqual)
Valuable UCAS points to support applications for university-level study
Advanced, practical communication techniques that will immediately enhance your effectiveness in your current role
The essential prerequisite needed to progress onto Level 4 therapeutic counselling qualifications
Begin at your own pace — your tutor is with you every step of the way.

