The next step after Level 3 - training to become a practising, agency-based counsellor
Nationally recognised CPCAB Level 4 Diploma; builds directly on the Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies, prepares learners to become a counsellor in an agency setting, using a person-centred approach.
Why Choose Our Level 4 Diploma?
Face-to-Face Learning
Practitioner-Level Training - in-person sessions with experienced tutors; portfolio-based, no written exams
Nationally Recognised Qualification
CPCAB Level 4, a Higher Technical Qualification (HTQ).
Person-Centred Approach
Our core theoretical modality throughout the diploma
Real Client Work
Supervised placement experience in a genuine agency setting from Year 1 onward.
A Route to Professional Practice
Progression toward BACP/NCPS routes and further Level 5/6 training.
Who Is This Course For?
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Learners who have completed the CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (or recognised equivalent) and want to progress into professional practice.
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People ready to commit to a two-year, practitioner-level training journey involving real client work, supervision and personal therapy.
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Those seeking a recognised route toward working as a counsellor within an agency, and in time, independent practice.
Location
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The Luminary Compass, 14 Crown Gate, Poundbury, Dorchester, Dorset, DT1 3EJ
Delivery
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Weekly in-person sessions, with interactive practice, group work, tutor support and supervised placement
Duration
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Two years, part-time
Assessment
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Portfolio of evidence, practical skills assessment, case studies, agency/supervisor reports, and an externally assessed recorded practice session in Year 2
Accreditation
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CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
Core theoretical modality
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Person-Centred Approach
Minimum supervised client hours
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100+ hours
Minimum personal therapy
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40+ hours
What to expect:
Year 1 - Foundations for Practice
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Orientation, group contracting and course expectations
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Working ethically, safely and professionally as a counsellor
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Deepening the person-centred core conditions in practice
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Working within a counselling relationship
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Self-awareness and personal development work
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Preparing for placement: contracting, boundaries, agency working
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Beginning personal therapy and supervision arrangements
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Skills practice, case presentations, portfolio building
Year 2 - Practitioner Development
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Working with client diversity in counselling work
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Working within a coherent framework of counselling theory and skills
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Working self-reflectively as a counsellor
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Case study writing and client work review
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Group supervision, peer feedback and observed practice
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Preparing for external assessment (recorded practice session + written review)
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Portfolio completion and sign-off; progression planning (Level 5/6)
Our Core Theoretical Approach: Person-Centred Counselling
The CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is grounded in the Person-Centred Approach, placing the therapeutic relationship at the heart of effective counselling practice.
Throughout the course, you'll develop the core conditions of empathy, congruence and unconditional positive regard, learning how to build safe, ethical and trusting relationships that support clients' growth and wellbeing.
By gaining depth in one recognised therapeutic approach, you'll build the confidence, practical skills and professional foundation needed for supervised client work and future development as a counsellor.
"We believe meaningful change begins with genuine human connection – and that relationship is at the heart of everything we teach."
Is This Course BACP Approved?
Our CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling is a nationally recognised, CPCAB-accredited qualification. While it is not currently delivered as the BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification variant, it follows the established and widely recognised route into professional counselling practice.
On successful completion, graduates achieve a qualification that aligns with SCoPEd Column A and provides a recognised pathway towards professional registration with organisations such as BACP, NCPS and ACC, subject to each organisation's individual membership requirements.
For many practising counsellors across the UK, this remains the standard route into agency work and ongoing professional development. The emphasis is on developing the knowledge, skills, ethical awareness and supervised client experience needed to begin a professional counselling career with confidence.
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling CPCAB (Level 4)
3,365.60£Full payment option ☆☆ EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT ☆☆ £3200 less £300 EB discount [plus CPCAB Fees £465.60]Valid for 12 months- First 1 yr of the 2 Year Diploma starting 9th January 2027
- Course fee £3200
- Early Bird Discount of £300 Time Limited
- CPCAB registration fee £388 + VAT = £465.60
- 110 Face-to-Face Tutoring.
- Become a Qualified Professional UK Counsellor
- Year 2 price fixed at the same as Year 1.
- CPCAB recognised awarding body
- The next step after your level 3 counselling training
- Small cohorts with tutors who know you well
- Client-facing tutors who do what they teach.
- Help with Placement hours
- Additional workshop and CPD learning
- Person-Centred training, taught in real depth
- Support that's there when client work gets hard
FAQ's
What is the CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling?
It's a nationally recognised, two-year, practitioner-level counselling qualification that prepares learners to work as a counsellor in an agency setting.
How many client hours do I need?
A minimum of 100 hours of formally contracted, supervised client work in an agency placement.
How much personal therapy do I need?
A minimum of 40 hours, with at least 50% undertaken while actively working with clients.
Is this course BACP Approved?
It is a CPCAB-accredited Level 4 Diploma; it is not currently run as the BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification variant, but provides a recognised route to BACP/NCPS registration.
What theoretical approach is used?
The course is grounded in the Person-Centred Approach.
Do I need Level 3 first?
Yes - the CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (or recognised equivalent) is the entry requirement.
How long does it take?
Two years, part-time.