Counsellor

This occupation is found in various sectors including mental health, healthcare, education, and social services. Counsellors work in a wide range of settings including GP surgeries, hospitals, universities, community centres, rehabilitation facilities, prison services, business, and non-profit organisations. In the mental health sector, employers can range from small community clinics to large hospitals or counselling centres. Counsellors who meet professional association membership requirements require practitioner training at Level 4 minimum, which includes practical experience through supervised clinical work.

The broad purpose of the occupation is to provide a supportive therapeutic relationship to individuals experiencing emotional, mental, or psychological challenges. Counsellors aim to improve the overall wellbeing of their clients. They do this by helping them navigate through difficult emotions, develop coping strategies, and make positive changes in their lives. Counsellors employ a wide range of therapeutic approaches and techniques to help clients address issues. Issues can be common mental health problems, relationship difficulties, trauma, addiction, grief, stress management, and personal development. They provide a safe and confidential space for clients to express their concerns, explore their emotions, and find ways to make a positive change. Counselling sessions may be conducted one-on-one, in groups, or with families, depending on the specific needs of the client. Key duties of a counsellor involve conducting assessments, working therapeutically with clients and maintain accurate records. The work environment may involve responding to risk factors, such as dealing with clients in crisis or situations involving trauma. Counsellors may deal with issues relating to the duty of care regarding safeguarding children, young people, and vulnerable adults. Online and phone counselling also require specific considerations, including the need for secure communication platforms and the ability to establish rapport without face-to-face interaction. Counsellors may need to travel to various locations for meetings or sessions.

In their daily work, an employee in this occupation interacts with colleagues within their own organisation. Externally, they may establish professional relationships with referral sources. An agency counsellor will report to a line manager who oversees their work, provides guidance, and evaluates their performance. Counsellors also engage in regular clinical supervision which is a professional service designed to support their ethical and safe practice.

An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the safety and wellbeing of themselves and their clients. They do this by effectively managing caseloads and adhering to relevant regulations, ethical guidelines, and professional standards. They usually work autonomously and receive supervision or consultation from more senior professionals. They may be responsible for providing additional therapeutic materials.

This standard is derived from the Scope of Practice and Education (ScOPEd) framework for column A therapists.

The SCoPEd framework is a ground-breaking shared standards framework, developed by six Professional Standards Authority accredited bodies, including BACP, which represent approximately 75,000 counsellors and psychotherapists.