How to Choose an Accredited Counselling Course & Why Accreditation Matters

Considering a career in counselling? One of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right training. With so many options - from introductory workshops to full diplomas and even online accredited counselling courses - it can feel overwhelming. The key factor that separates a course that supports you and your career from one that may leave you struggling is accreditation.

In this guide, we’ll break down what “accredited” really means, who sets the standards, and the risks of going down a non-accredited route. We’ll also share how to check if a course provider is the real deal -  and we’ll highlight how providers like Key Counselling Training can support you every step of the way.

What Exactly is an Accredited Counselling Course?

An accredited counselling course has been given a stamp of approval by a professional body. It means the course has been rigorously checked to make sure it meets recognised standards for safe and effective practice.

Here in the UK, the main accrediting bodies are:

●      BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)

●      NCPS (National Counselling & Psychotherapy Society)

●     CPCAB (Counselling & Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body)

Completing an accredited course is a bit like having a passport - it opens the door to professional registration, placements, and employment. Without it, your options may be limited.

This is where we come in. At Key Counselling Training, we run a full pathway of accredited qualifications, from Level 2 and Level 3 Certificates right through to Level 4 Diplomas and advanced CBT training. Meaning you can start at the very beginning and keep on building, all with one trusted provider.

Why Accreditation Matters (More Than You Think)

Here is the truth: accreditation is what gives your training credibility. Without it, you may end up with a nice-looking certificate that carries little real weight. So it is important to take this into consideration when you are tempted by quicker or cheaper courses.

Accreditation is at the heart of a successful counselling career. Professional bodies such as the BACP and NCPS require accredited training before you can register, and that registration is your badge of credibility - without it, securing clients or employment can be a real challenge. Accredited qualifications are also a must for most employers and agencies, as they prove you’ve been trained to a recognised professional standard. Beyond employability, accreditation guarantees quality: courses are rigorously assessed for teaching standards, supervised practice hours, and the balance between theory and real-world skills.

At Key Counselling Training, quality is central. Our tutors are experienced practitioners who provide structured supervision and a flexible mix of classroom and online learning. Accreditation also ensures you are equipped with the ethical frameworks and safeguarding responsibilities essential for counselling, helping you to practise safely, confidently, and with integrity.

What is so Risky about Non-Accredited Training?

Here’s the flip side. If you take a non-accredited course, you risk:

●      Being unable to register with professional bodies.

●      Spending money on a qualification that employers won’t recognise.

●      Missing supervised placement opportunities.

●      Being misled into thinking you’re “qualified” when you’re not.

Overall, it may save you money in the short term, but it may close doors to opportunities in the future.

How to know if a Course is accredited?

Here are some simple checks you can do if you are unsure if the course is legitimate or not:

●       Look for the accreditor’s logo (BACP, NCPS, CPCAB)

●      Check the accreditor’s website to see if the provider is listed

●      Ask about progression routes - accredited providers should offer a clear path from certificate to diploma

●      Confirm supervised practice is included

●      Speak to current or former students

At Key Counselling Training, we openly display all our accreditations, offer a full pathway of qualifications and provide ongoing CPD workshops so you are supported beyond any course you take.

What to Look for in Different Types of Training.

When it comes to counselling training, several different routes are available depending on your experience, goals, and area of interest. Each stage of study plays a vital role in shaping your skills and preparing you for practice, so it’s important to understand what to look for in the right course.

For beginners, a Certificate in Counselling is the ideal place to start. Key Counselling Training’s Level 3 Certificate provides a strong foundation, covering core listening skills, ethical principles, and the basics needed to progress with confidence.

If you’re working towards professional practice, a Diploma in Counselling is essential. The best diplomas include supervised placements, giving you practical experience alongside theoretical study. Our Level 4 Diploma combines in-depth learning with structured supervision, ensuring you’re fully prepared for client work.

For more experienced counsellors, supervision training opens the door to supporting others in their professional development. This is a vital role within the profession, and Key Counselling Training offers specialist courses to help you move into supervision with confidence.

Flexibility is also key, which is why online accredited counselling courses have become increasingly popular. High-quality training should still include live sessions and supervised practice hours, even when studied remotely. We deliver online courses nationwide via Zoom and Microsoft Teams, while upholding the same high standards as our classroom-based programmes.

Finally, for those drawn to a specific approach such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, it’s important to choose training that is both accredited and aligned with BABCP expectations. Key Counselling Training’s Advanced Certificate in CBT provides specialist skills that are recognised by employers and valued by clients, making it a strong addition to any professional pathway.

Useful Tips for Choosing the Right Course (and Provider)

●      Clarify your goals: Are you exploring counselling or aiming to become fully qualified?

●      Check the entry requirements: Accredited diplomas often need a certificate first.

●      Think about flexibility: Evening, weekend, or online study can help fit training around your life.

●      Budget realistically: Factor in supervision, personal counselling, and course fees.

●      Ask direct questions: Don’t be shy - At Key Counselling Training, we are happy to explain tutor backgrounds, placements, and support options.

Next Steps on Your Counselling Journey

Choosing an accredited counselling course isn’t just a box-ticking exercise. It’s about protecting your future, your clients, and your career. Accreditation gives you credibility, confidence, and clear pathways to progression.

At Key Counselling Training, we want to make the journey smoother. With accredited certificates, diplomas, CBT therapy training, supervision, and flexible online options, we have built a reputation for guiding students from our very first step right through to professional practice.

So, if you’re ready to start your counselling journey, take the time to research, verify, and choose wisely. And remember: with the right accredited training behind you, you’ll be building not just a career, but also the skills to make a real difference in people’s lives.

Ready to take the next step? Explore accredited courses with us and contact us today for more information and start building your future in counselling with confidence.