If you’re considering enrolling in a Level 2 counselling course, understanding the time commitment involved is essential for planning your studies around existing responsibilities. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what to expect in terms of course duration, weekly commitment, and how to manage your time effectively throughout your studies.
Typical Duration of Level 2 Counselling Courses
Level 2 counselling courses are designed to be accessible to people with various commitments and schedules. While the exact duration can vary between training providers, most follow a similar pattern:
Standard Course Length
Most Level 2 counselling courses run for:
- 20-30 sessions in total
- Spanning 4-9 months depending on frequency of sessions
- 90-180 guided learning hours (a combination of teaching time and supervised practice)
At Mindspace, our CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills consists of 24 sessions, providing a comprehensive introduction to counselling skills while maintaining a manageable time commitment.
Session Frequency Options
Training providers typically offer different scheduling options to accommodate various needs:
- Weekly sessions (most common): One session per week, usually in the evening
- Fortnightly sessions: Sessions every two weeks, extending the overall duration
- Block learning: Intensive periods of study (less common at Level 2)
- Weekend options: Some providers offer weekend-only courses
Mindspace’s Level 2 course runs in evening sessions from 5:45pm to 9:30pm, making it ideal for those working standard daytime hours or with daytime family commitments.
Weekly Time Commitment
Understanding the weekly commitment helps you realistically assess whether you can fit the course into your schedule:
In-Class Hours
The formal teaching time typically involves:
- 3-4 hours per session of classroom time
- 1 session per week for most standard courses
Additional Study Time
Beyond the classroom hours, you should expect to spend:
- 2-4 hours per week on self-directed study
- 1-2 hours per week on reflective journaling and assignments
- Occasional additional time for reading and preparation
This means a total weekly commitment of approximately 6-10 hours including both class time and independent study.
Course Structure Timeline
Level 2 counselling courses generally follow a progressive structure:
Beginning Phase (First Third of the Course)
- Introduction to basic counselling concepts
- Building foundational listening skills
- Understanding ethical frameworks
- Initial self-awareness exercises
Middle Phase (Second Third)
- Development of core counselling skills
- More in-depth theoretical understanding
- Peer practice sessions with feedback
- Continuing personal development work
Final Phase (Last Third)
- Integration of skills and theory
- More complex skill practice
- Completion of assessment requirements
- Preparation for progression to Level 3 (if desired)
Assessment Timelines
Understanding assessment deadlines helps you plan your time effectively:
Ongoing Assessments
- Weekly reflective journals throughout the course
- Regular skills practice observation by tutors and peers
- Formative feedback at regular intervals
Final Assessments
- Skills demonstrations (typically in the final third of the course)
- Written assignments (often due toward the end of the course)
- Portfolio completion (compiled throughout but finalised at the end)
At Mindspace, assessment consists of short written assignment tasks and tutor and peer observed active listening skills practice, spread throughout the 24 sessions to make the workload manageable.
Balancing the Course with Other Commitments
Level 2 counselling courses are designed to be accessible to people with other responsibilities:
Working Professionals
- Evening sessions (like Mindspace’s 5:45pm-9:30pm schedule) allow you to attend after work
- Weekly format means you can plan regular study time around work commitments
- Most assignments are designed to be completed in manageable chunks
Parents and Carers
- Evening classes may coincide with parenting responsibilities
- Consider childcare arrangements for class times
- Plan study time when children are at school or asleep
Other Study Commitments
- Level 2 counselling can often complement other courses in helping professions
- Be realistic about the total study load across all commitments
- Communicate with tutors early if you anticipate busy periods
Online vs. In-Person Time Commitment
Both formats require the same number of learning hours, but there are some differences in how your time is structured:
Online Courses
- No travel time required
- More flexible study time around class sessions
- Additional technology setup time occasionally needed
In-Person Courses
- Additional travel time to and from the venue
- Natural boundaries between study and home life
- Immediate face-to-face practice without technical considerations
Mindspace offers both online and Basingstoke-based in-person options for their Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills, allowing you to choose the format that best fits your lifestyle and learning preferences.
Progression Timeline: Beyond Level 2
If you’re planning your longer-term counselling training journey:
Typical Gap Between Levels
- Many students take a 1-3 month break between Level 2 and Level 3
- This allows time to consolidate learning and prepare for the next stage
- Some students prefer to continue immediately to maintain momentum
Planning Your Counselling Education Journey
- Level 2 Certificate: 24 sessions (approximately 6-9 months)
- Level 3 Certificate: Typically similar duration to Level 2
- Level 4 Diploma: Usually 2 years part-time
- Total journey to qualified counsellor status: Approximately 3-4 years part-time
Upon completing Mindspace’s Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills, you’ll be eligible to apply for their CPCAB Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies, allowing for a smooth progression in your counselling education.
Is the Time Commitment Right for You?
Consider these questions when deciding if you can commit to a Level 2 counselling course:
- Can you reliably attend weekly evening sessions for 24 weeks?
- Can you set aside 2-4 hours each week for additional study?
- Do you have support from family/employers to undertake the course?
- Are there any major life events coming up that might impact your studies?
- Do you have a suitable space for quiet study and reflection?
Getting Started with Mindspace's Level 2 Certificate
Mindspace’s CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills offers a structured, accessible introduction to counselling skills with sessions designed to fit around work and family commitments:
- 24 sessions in total, providing comprehensive skill development
- Evening sessions from 5:45pm to 9:30pm accommodating daytime commitments
- Choice of online or Basingstoke-based in-person learning
- Regular start dates in September and January
- Clear progression route to Level 3 upon completion
The time commitment is significant but manageable for most adults, and the skills gained through dedicated study will serve you well in many aspects of your personal and professional life.
Ready to begin your counselling journey? Apply now for Mindspace’s Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and take the first step toward developing valuable skills that can transform both your professional capabilities and personal relationships.
