Introduction to Counselling Course

Basingstoke Counselling Service, based in North Hampshire, offers a Level 1 Introduction to Counselling Course twice per year. These take place each spring and autumn.

What does the course cover?

This course has multiple aspects to it, including:

• to provide an understanding of what counselling is and its origins
• to provide a safe environment for self-exploration and reflection
• to develop listening and communication skills
• to establish some basic counselling skills
• to demonstrate how counselling skills can be usefully applied to personal and professional relationships.

Is this course for me?

People’s motivations for undertaking this course vary, such as:

• thinking about a career in counselling and psychotherapy but wanting to know more before committing to a full training
• wanting to gain greater self-awareness and understanding of themselves
• looking to develop their helping skills in a professional or voluntary role
• interested in knowing more about the origins and types of counselling
• wanting to develop skills for self-reflection
• hoping to gain more understanding of their professional and personal relationships
• wishing to take the first step recommended by the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) in a progressive training journey as a counsellor
• wishing to support those close to them

If any of these reasons resonate with you, please see below to find out more and how to apply.

Completion of an Introduction to Counselling course prior to applying for the Certificate in Counselling Skills and Theory is recommended but not essential.

Entry Criteria

The course is open to everybody and no formal qualifications are required.

Course Structure

This is a 10-week course comprising one three-hour session per week.

All sessions in the autumn term take place online on a Monday evening from 6.30-9.30pm.

All sessions in the spring term are held in-person in our offices in Basingstoke on a Monday evening from 6.00-9.00pm.

Course Leader and Teaching Methods

The course is led by an experienced Counsellor and Trainer who adheres to the BACP Ethical Framework for the Counselling Professions. Teaching is through presentations, group exercises, role-play, and group discussions.

Catherine Butler MBACP
Certificate and Introduction Course Manager

Catherine is the Certificate and Introduction Course Manager and is responsible for all aspects of these courses, she is an experienced Psychodynamic Counsellor and in addition to working at BCS she has a thriving private practice. Catherine has a background in training, this experience combined with extensive subject knowledge, a good sense of humour and excellent communication skills gives her the ability to enthuse, encourage, motivate, and nurture others. Catherine teaches the 1^st term of the Certificate, is a course tutor and delivers a number of workshops.

Course Fee

£350.00

Course Dates

Autumn Term

3rd October – 12^th December 2022 (inclusive)
Reading week: 24^th October 2022 – no sessions

If you would like to receive further information, or have any questions about the course, please contact us on 01256 843125 or training@basingstokecounselling.org.uk

Cancellation Policy

In the unlikely event that unforeseen circumstances arise and Basingstoke Counselling Service has to cancel this course a full refund will be given. In the event of cancellation by the participant, Basingstoke Counselling Service reserves the right to charge a cancellation fee as indicated by the table below. All requests for cancellations must be received in writing, with changes becoming effective on the date written confirmation is received.