Introduction to counselling

You will compare person-centred approach to counselling with psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural models, exploring some of the key elements of the theoretical backgrounds. There will be opportunities for you to engage in the reflective learning process, both as an individual and as a member of the group.

The face-to-face route will focus on theoretical and reflective exploration as well as providing opportunities to begin to put some of the listening skills you will learn into practice. These practice sessions will take place in small groups with your fellow students.

Similarly, The online route will focus on theoretical and reflective exploration and skills practice. The practice sessions will take place online in small groups with your fellow students. The final week of the online course (week 10) will meet face-to-face on campus.

There are no entry requirements for this course.

Summer term 2026

The autumn term will start in the week commencing 27 April 2026.

This course is both theoretical and practical. The face to face course and the online course both offer an opportunity to understand something about different theoretical approaches to counselling as well as an opportunity to reflect on self-experience in relation to theory and to engage in listening exercises in small groups. Weekly preparation and reading material for both courses will be available online on the university's virtual learning site.

Please contact us at cll at warwick dot ac dot uk for any inquiries regarding this course.

The course will be helpful if you wish to proceed to the BA (Hons) Counselling and the Psychotherapeutic Relationship. Successful completion of the course will guarantee an interview for the BA degree.

At the end of the academic year, you will receive a level 4 Certificate (10 Credits) from the university.

Students are expected to keep a weekly journal and to complete a 2000 word essay. As this course includes listening skills practice and group discussions as a core part of the learning, a minimum attendance of 70% is required in order to pass.

You can register for the courses via our online booking form

Applications will close on 20th April at noon, on a first-come, first-served basis.

£315. View potential additional University costsLink opens in a new window -- for example, you may wish to consider travelling and printing costs.