Level 3 certificate in counselling skills

This course is INNATE Certified.

Our courses are designed to give learners the underpinning knowledge, skills and competencies to use counselling skills ethically and safely in a variety of contexts and roles. This course is mapped to CPCAB and Ofqual.

We offer two study options:

• Evening course: 30 weeks, starting every September. One evening per week, 6pm-9:30pm (term-time only).
• Day course: 20 weeks, starting every February. One day per week, 9:30am-2:30pm (term-time only).

Level 3 fees:

• 30 weeks cohort prices: Deposit of £299 / £112.50 per month for eight months
• 20 weeks cohort prices: Deposit of £299 / £180 per month for five months

Total fees: £1199. Payment can be paid in full if preferred.

Course overview:

This qualification is intended for candidates who have already acquired a recognised or INNATE certified Level 2 qualification in counselling skills and want to:

• Take the next step in training to become a counsellor.
• Learn more about counselling theory, ethics and mental health.
• Be prepared for work as a professional counsellor in an agency setting.

Progression route

This course is widely accepted as one of the entry requirements to Level 4 diploma in therapeutic counselling, with nationally recognised awarding bodies, as well as other courses.

This qualification leads to employment and increases employability for those whose role is to support others in sectors such as health and social care work, teaching and learning, advocacy and mediation, support and project work, and other helping roles. It provides additional skills for those already in employment and is likely to lead to increased opportunities for promotion and advancement towards practitioner-level qualifications.

This qualification will enable successful candidates to work as skilled supporters within a range of job and career opportunities.

This qualification is for:

• Individuals interested in building foundational skills for a career in counselling or mental health support who have undertaken Level 2 or equivalent. 
• People looking to enhance their communication and listening skills to support others in a professional capacity, such as in health, education, or social services.
• Those aiming to progress onto higher-level qualifications, such as Level 4 or Level 5, to eventually qualify as a therapist or counsellor.

Entry requirements: You must have undertaken counselling skills training, e.g. Level 2 counselling skills or equivalent units/qualifications of at least 90 guided learning hours.

• Guided learning hours: 90 hours (minimum)
• Total qualification time: 196 hours
• Venue/location: Online

Level 3 dates for academic year 2026-2027:

Cohort D (30 weeks):

• Start: September 2026
• End: May 2027
• Timing: 6pm-9:30pm

Cohort D2 (20 weeks):

• Start: February 2026
• End: May 2027
• Timing: 9.30am-2.30pm

For more information and to apply, visit innatecounsellingandpsychotherapy.co.uk