Getting into counselling

Study in psychology could be useful, especially if you are considering a postgraduate degree in counselling psychology. To become a counselling psychologist you need to complete a degree that gives you the graduate basis for registration (GBR) by the British Psychological Society (BPS). The OU degree, BA or BSc (Hons) Psychology meets this requirement.

However entry to counselling does not always require a psychology background and there are other courses that you can do. The OU course D171 Introduction to Counselling introduces you to the basics of counselling theory and practice.

There is more information on how to get into counselling on the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) website. The BACP also has a jobs page.

For entry onto many courses, particularly those at postgraduate level, you need to demonstrate an interest and some prior experience in counselling. This is usually gained as a volunteer. Check the national volunteering database for opportunities in your area.