Counselling Industry Flashcards
(34 cards)
What does CPCAB stand for?
CPCAB stands for Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body.
What is a “student member” of BACP?
Available to those who have been accepted on or who are currently attending a CPCAB L4 course.
What is an “individual member” of BACP?
Available to those who have completed their CPCAB L4 course BUT NOT taken the CoP exam.
Students on our course don’t get this membership as they automatically qualify for a “registered membership” of BACP.
What is an “registered member” of BACP?
Students on our course will get this after finishing CPCAB L4 and taking their CoP exam (included as part of our course)
How many guided learning hours are needed to become a BACP member?
You need 450 hours guided learning to become a BACP member
When would someone be looking to complete the Level 6 qualification?
Someone would typically be looking to complete level 6 when they are qualified and experienced counsellors aiming to become clinical supervisors, having completed a level 5 diploma and at least one year of post-qualifying experience
Is counselling a regulated profession in the UK?
No, it’s not legally regulated, but most counsellors join a professional body to demonstrate ethical practice and standards.
What are the main professional bodies for counsellors in the UK?
BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy), NCPS (National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society), and UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy).
Why do counsellors join a professional body?
To gain accreditation, follow an ethical framework and show clients and employers that you meet professional standards.
What does it mean to be on the BACP Register?
This means that the counsellor has met BACP’s standards for training, supervision, and ethics and is on a PSA-accredited register.
What’s the typical training route to become a counsellor in the UK?
Level 2 → Level 3 → Level 4 Diploma (with placement) → Optional further study at Level 5 or 6.
How many client hours are needed during Level 4 training?
A minimum of 100 hours of supervised client work.
Can someone legally call themselves a counsellor without qualifications?
Yes, legally they can, but most employers and clients expect accredited training and membership with a recognised body.
What is CPCAB and what’s its role?
CPCAB is a UK awarding body specialising in counselling qualifications. It provides regulated, structured training routes recognised by employers.
Where do counsellors typically work in the UK?
Private practice, the NHS, charities (like Mind or Relate), schools, universities, and EAPs (Employee Assistance Programmes).
Are most counsellors employed or self-employed?
Many are self-employed, especially after qualifying, though some work part-time in organisations.
Is there high demand for counselling in the UK?
Yes, demand is growing, especially around mental health, trauma, and post-COVID support needs.
What skills are most valued in the counselling profession?
Empathy, active listening, ethical awareness, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust.
How has the demand for counselling changed in the UK in recent years?
Demand has increased significantly due to rising awareness of mental health, COVID-19 impacts, and waiting lists for NHS support.
What is IAPT and how does it relate to counselling?
IAPT (Improving Access to Psychological Therapies) is an NHS programme offering therapy including CBT; counsellors can work within it if suitably trained.
Which client issues are most common in counselling services?
Anxiety, depression, trauma, bereavement, relationship issues, and self-esteem are among the most commonly addressed issues.
Can you work in the NHS with a CPCAB qualification?
Yes – especially after completing Level 4, you can apply for NHS counselling roles or work with NHS-linked services.
What level of CPCAB qualification do you need to be considered a qualified counsellor?
Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
What NHS roles are open to someone with a Level 4 CPCAB qualification?
Entry-level counsellor roles, often in community mental health, GP surgeries, or via NHS-charity partnerships.
