Become a Professional Counsellor
Begin with CPCAB Level 2 and progress with one supportive training school through Level 3 and the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
Study through live online teaching or join selected face-to-face courses in Dorset. Develop your counselling skills, confidence and professional identity within a supportive learning environment.
✓ CPCAB Levels 2, 3 and 4
✓ Standard and Fast Track courses
✓ Small, supportive learning groups
✓ Experienced practising tutors
✓ Flexible monthly payment plans
✓ Online and Dorset-based training
Your CPCAB Counselling Training Pathway
Whether you're taking your very first step into counselling or progressing towards professional practice, we're here to support you at every stage of your journey.
CPCAB Level 2
Build your confidence, self-awareness and essential counselling skills.
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CPCAB Level 3
Develop your theoretical knowledge and prepare for professional training.
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CPCAB Level 4
Train as a therapeutic counsellor through supervised practice and advanced counselling skills.
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Your Future
Progress towards professional membership and employment within counselling settings.
Why Learners Choose SW-SC
👥 Small Supportive Groups
Small groups of approximately 10–12 learners, giving everyone the opportunity to participate, practise counselling skills and receive individual tutor support.
🎓 Train from Level 2 to Professional Practice
Progress from
Level 2 → Level 3 → Level 4 Diploma
with one supportive training provider.
💻 Live Interactive Learning
Learn live each week through practical skills practice, tutor demonstrations, group discussion and supportive feedback.
❤️ Grow Personally and Professionally
Develop not only counselling knowledge but also greater self-awareness, confidence and reflective practice.
👩🏫 Experienced Practising Tutors
Learn from qualified counselling professionals who bring current practice and real-world experience into every session.
💷 Flexible Payment Plans
Spread the cost of your training with manageable monthly payments.
📍 Study Your Way
Choose between live online learning and selected face-to-face courses in Dorset.
⭐ Trusted by Learners
Join the many learners who have started or continued their counselling journey with SW-SC.
Not Sure Which Course Is Right For You?
Whether you're changing career, returning to education or beginning your counselling journey, we're happy to help.
Why Choose a CPCAB Qualification?
When choosing a counselling course, it's important to understand the qualification you're working towards. CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) is one of the UK's leading specialist awarding organisations for counselling and is recognised by employers, training providers and many professional membership bodies.
Our CPCAB qualifications provide a structured progression route from introductory counselling skills through to professional counsellor training.
🎓 Nationally Recognised
CPCAB qualifications are respected throughout the UK and are widely recognised within counselling education.
📈 Clear Progression
Progress naturally from Level 2 to Level 3 and onto our approved CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.
🧠 Skills & Personal Development
Develop practical counselling skills alongside greater self-awareness, reflective practice and professional confidence.
🤝 Prepare for Professional Practice
Gain the knowledge, skills and ethical understanding needed before progressing towards supervised counselling practice.
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"If anyone is looking to start or continue their counselling training, I can genuinely recommend South West School of Counselling. I know the people behind it both personally and professionally, and I know how much care and work they put into what they do. Definitely worth a look if you’re considering counselling training.."
What Our Clients Say
At South West School of Counselling, we take pride in the positive impact we have on our students. Here’s what some of them have to say about their experiences at our training centre.
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It inspired me
"Marissa was such an amazing tutor. She made things clear and easy to follow. She engaged with us and was able to work at everyone’s different levels. The classes on-line were always filled with energy and I really enjoyed them. I did the Level 2 with her and it inspired me to go and do Level 3." - Oriane, Trainee Counsellor
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A brilliant introduction
"This course was a brilliant introduction to counselling and personal development. It boosted my self-awareness, sharpened my active listening, and deepened my understanding of working with difference while staying grounded in who I am. These skills have genuinely improved my practice in education.
I’d definitely recommend it to anyone starting out in counselling or looking to enhance how they work with others—whether in schools, care settings, or any role that involves meaningful human connection." - Matt, Level 2 Learner
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I didn’t know what to expect
"Embarking on the Level 2 Counselling Course online was daunting for me having not been in education for some time. I didn’t know what to expect but I need not have worried with Marissa as a tutor. With the courses offered by Marissa I may get the chance to be taught by her again which I would very much look forward to as the first experience was amazing. Marissa is incredibly knowledgeable and encouraging and I never felt like I was going to fail under her tutelage. " - Charlotte, Level 2 Learner
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I would 100% recommend
"I've recently completed my Level 2 counselling course with South West School of Counselling and am now looking forward to progressing onto Level 3. I genuinely couldn't recommend them enough!
A special mention has to go to Marissa, who is an absolutely wonderful tutor! She is incredibly knowledgeable, approachable, patient and genuinely cares about every student's learning and development. She creates such a welcoming, supportive environment where everyone feels comfortable contributing, asking questions and sharing their experiences. Her passion for teaching really shines through, and she has a brilliant way of making the sessions both educational and enjoyable.
The course itself has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Not only have I developed my counselling skills and knowledge but I've also learnt so much about myself along the way. It's encouraged me to reflect, challenge my own perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of others
The online sessions are engaging and interactive, with a lovely balance of learning, group discussions and practical activities. I've also met some wonderful people throughout the course, which has made the experience even more enjoyable.
I'm genuinely grateful to Marissa for all her encouragement, kindness and support throughout Level 2. She's made the experience so positive, and I'm really looking forward to continuing my journey with her in Level 3.
I would 100% recommend South West School of Counselling to anyone considering counselling training." - Samantha, Combined FT Level 2&3 Learner
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The online sessions are well paced
"I have been really enjoying the course so far. The online sessions are well paced with interesting and relevant content to progress my learning. The teaching is excellent and student focused. I have learnt throughout the course to develop my counselling skills and have built confidence with support from my tutor. I have enjoyed the interactions and shared learning with the other like minded students. There is a mix of teaching and group work which ensures the sessions cover the content needed to complete our portfolio of work. I would recommend this school of counselling." - Sarah, Combined FT Level 2&3 Learner
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Approachable, passionate, and deeply committed
"I had the privilege of studying at South West School of Counselling, and it was one of the best decisions I made for both my personal growth and professional development. The training was knowledgeable, supportive, and genuinely person-centred, creating an environment where I felt challenged, encouraged, and inspired to become a better counsellor. Marissa has always been approachable, passionate, and deeply committed to helping her students succeed. I'm grateful for everything I learned during my time there and would highly recommend South West School of Counselling to anyone considering a career in counselling. " - Paul, Combined FT Level 2 & 3 Learner
Enquire About Our Counselling Courses
Interested in starting or continuing your counselling training? Get in touch with South West School of Counselling and we’ll be happy to help you find the right course and answer any questions about entry requirements, course dates or fees.
