So, you want to become a counsellor ? It's a great career choice that can be deeply rewarding. But where do you start? How do you become a counsellor? In this blog post, we'll look at the steps you need to take to qualify as a counsellor. We'll discuss the different routes into training, what qualifications you'll need, and how to find work once qualified. So if you're interested in becoming a counsellor, read on!
Choose the Right Degree
The first step to becoming a counsellor is choosing the right degree. It is essential to choose between a degree in counselling or psychology – both of which offer distinct and crucial components. A degree in counselling provides the practical skills needed to provide moral, empathetic and legal support. In contrast, a major in psychology gives an understanding of people's underlying needs and motivations, allowing for better insights into problem-solving. Both degrees have strengths and weaknesses, so it is essential to research what is best suited based on your passions and career goals. Ultimately, pursuing a course that best suits your expectations and provides you with sage advice and opportunities for further growth is necessary.
Complete your Training
Becoming a qualified counsellor is a rewarding experience that requires focus, dedication, and hard work. The first step to success is to complete your training. This will usually involve a practical placement with an organisation based in your local community. On these placements, you can develop your knowledge, sharpen your counselling skills, and gain invaluable insight into the nature of the job - all aspects fundamental to success. It can also be an excellent opportunity to meet potential employers and make an impression on them. Ultimately, completing training is one of the most important steps you will take towards becoming a fully-fledged counsellor in the UK.
Get Registered
Becoming a counsellor in the UK is an exciting challenge, and the first step is to get registered with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP). This professional membership organisation provides rigorous training and assessment criteria to ensure high standards of practice, with ongoing development and support for Counsellors across the UK. Becoming a BACP Registered Member or Accredited Practitioner will give you access to the latest ethical policies, resources, education and advocacy opportunities that enable you to provide excellent counselling services. It also allows potential clients to identify you as having reached their required standards of qualifications, experience and skills. With this in place (alongside all other requirements), your journey towards becoming a successful Counsellor can finally begin.
Start Privately or for an Organisation
Becoming a counsellor in the UK starts with deciding how you want to start working – privately or for an organisation. Options such as creating a private practice, obtaining a professional job as part of a talking therapy team within an organisation, or perhaps doing online counselling are all possible options. Most organisations choose to employ professionals with qualifications and proper counselling certification. This means that it would likely be beneficial to gain formal training through one of the many courses available across the UK before proceeding with your decision to work as a private or organisation-based counsellor. With these certifications and relevant experience acquired along the way, start working on building clientele or securing your position in an organisational role. You will be well on your way to becoming a successful counsellor!
Keep Up with Changes in the Field of Counseling
Becoming a qualified counsellor requires dedication and commitment, completing the required qualifications and striving to continue learning once you're UK-qualified. Attending conferences and workshops is an invaluable way to stay up-to-date with new theories, models and developments in counselling.
It's also critical to ensure that you completely understand your field, as this will provide you with the necessary foundation upon which to build and will allow you to tap into the collective knowledge shared at events like these. Attending conferences and workshops allows you to not only advance your professional development but also to network with colleagues and peers. To become a great counsellor, you must commit to constantly broadening your knowledge and skill base - so attending these events should be made a priority!
Conclusion
To become a counsellor, you must choose the right degree, complete your training, and register with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy. You can then start working as a counsellor privately or for an organisation. It is essential to keep up to date with developments in counselling by attending conferences and workshops. So, hope this step will give you a perfect roadmap to being a counsellor. Best of luck!
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