Free Counseling Course

Discover the web’s most flexible and enjoyable free counseling course, right here at Oxford Home Study Centre. Our exclusive free counselling course online are now open for enrolment, with no prior knowledge or experience necessary. Our free online counselling courses (with certificate available for a small fee) are based on the same high-quality materials as our paid courses. Study the qualities, capabilities and characteristics of the counsellor, explore a series of essential counselling concepts and learn how to distinguish between counselling and guidance. Build the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue a successful career in the field of counselling. All course materials are included as standard, and no additional resources are needed to complete your counseling online free course. Learn more about our counselling short course online, or contact a member of our admissions team anytime to learn more.

Why Study Counselling?

Everyone faces challenges and issues that must be overcome, in order to live a happy and fulfilled life. The job of the counsellor is to provide invaluable assistance for those looking to make positive progress in their lives, who may be being held back by emotional issues. Counselling is about helping people improve their self-awareness and build towards a more positive way of life. As the reasons why a person seeks counselling are always unique, it is a concept that means different things to different people. A qualified counsellor can help people from all walks of life overcome relationship problems, emotional difficulties, behavioural issues and social obstacles. A fascinating and rewarding profession, dedicated to the betterment of others. Take this introduction to counselling course online for free and discover how rewarding a career in counselling can be.

By the end of this course the learner will be able to:

Differentiate between counselling and guidance
Understand the qualities and characteristics of a good counsellor
Describe the primary goals of counselling
Describe the various stages of the counselling process
Build good relationships of trust and respect with clients

Free Study and Optional Certification

You can enrol on our Counselling (Short Course), access all online learning materials and complete your studies without paying a course fee.

After successfully completing the course, you can choose to purchase optional certification:

QLS-endorsed Certificate of Achievement
CPD-accredited certificate issued by the CPD Standards Office as a record of continuing professional development

You may order either certificate individually or purchase both for the same completed course. Choosing one does not require you to purchase the other.

Each certificate option has its own price. The total payable varies according to the certificates selected, course level, format and delivery option. You can view the latest options and prices on our certificate pricing page.

Certification is entirely optional and is not required to access or complete the course.

Course Content

Topics Covered in the Course

Key topics and knowledge areas covered in this free online counselling course (with optional certificate available) are as follows:

Counselling as a Profession

A detailed exploration of the counselling sector and profession, outlining the primary roles and responsibilities of the professional counsellor. The cornerstones of effective counselling are also discussed.

The Primary Goals of Counselling

Outlines the main goals and objectives of counselling, while looking at the main reasons an individual may seek counselling and the limitations of counselling. The importance of establishing defined objectives is also examined.

What’s the Difference between Counselling and Guidance?

A fascinating look at the difference between counselling and guidance – two closely connected concepts which nonetheless serve entirely different purposes. Candidates learn how to determine when and where counselling or guidance is the most suitable option.

Counselling Concepts

Examines a series of essential historical and contemporary counselling concepts, which form the core of effective counselling. Candidates also consider the importance of establishing good relationships with clients as a counsellor.

The Qualities, Capabilities and Characteristics of the Counsellor

Details and discusses the soft skills and character traits that are essential for building a successful career in counselling. Course content also covers several potential challenges associated with working as a counsellor.

The Counselling Process – How Does it Work?

Candidates are provided with a detailed breakdown of the counselling process, with a step-by-step overview of how a typical counselling session works and the journey towards achieving the objectives of the client.

Common Counselling Myths and Untruths

A presentation of several long-standing myths and misconceptions about counselling, primarily concerning the reasons why people would choose to see a counsellor and what can be expected during a course of counselling.

When Should an Individual Seek Counselling?

A general overview of the most common reasons why clients seek counselling, including the potential signs and symptoms that a person could benefit from speaking to a counsellor. Instances where counselling would not be recommended are also discussed.

How It Works

Build your knowledge through clear and accessible online learning.

Complete the assignments and achieve the required marks.

Choose an optional certificate after completing the course.

Why Choose a Certificate?

An optional certificate provides a clear record of successful course completion. Add it to your learning portfolio and share it where relevant.

Completing the course and its assessments shows your commitment to developing subject knowledge through focused, independent learning.

Use your new knowledge to support further study, workplace development or personal goals. A certificate records completion but does not guarantee employment or professional status.