Counsellors

Description

Jobholders in this unit group provide counselling services to clients with a wide variety of problems by means of assisting them to reach their own resolutions to the difficulties they face. Counsellors may specialise in a particular area or client group or address a wide range of issues.

Tasks

• meets clients face-to-face, working either one-to-one or with couples or families, or by telephone or internet
• encourages clients to discuss their feelings in relation to their problems, aiming to ensure that an understanding of the issues is achieved
• presents different perspectives to the problem areas identified
• refers to other appropriate sources of help
• keeps accurate and confidential records.

Educational Requirements

There are no formal qualifications to entry but relevant experience is necessary. Many employers will expect entrants to have achieved or be working towards accreditation with a professional body via certification or a diploma in counselling. Background checks including a CRB check are likely to be required for counsellors working with vulnerable adults and/or families.