Two women chatting in a counselling session.

COSCA Counselling Skills Course

The COSCA Counselling Skills Course is a part-time, practice-based introduction to counselling, ideal for individuals working or volunteering in helping roles, as well as those exploring a potential career in counselling or psychotherapy.

This course is validated by COSCA (Counselling and Psychotherapy in Scotland) and awarded at SCQF Level 8. It focuses on developing key counselling skills, including self-awareness, active listening and effective communication.

Participants will also gain an understanding of core counselling theories and ethical practice within the field.

The course is structured into four modules. Successful completion of all four leads to the COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills.

To learn more about COSCA, visit the COSCA website.

  • This course is open to everyone and requires no previous experience. It is an ideal first step for anyone interested in a career in counselling or for those simply looking to enhance their communication, empathy and interpersonal skills.

    Delivered in an interactive and supportive environment, the course provides a high-quality foundation in counselling skills, key concepts and self-awareness—skills that are valuable in both personal and professional settings

  • The course is delivered in four modules, each comprising approximately 30 hours of learning.

    • Modules 1 & 2 focus on developing core listening and responding skills, enhancing self-awareness and introducing the core conditions that underpin major counselling approaches.

    • Modules 3 & 4 delve deeper into key counselling theories, explore ethical issues and professional dilemmas and help learners integrate their skills, knowledge and self-awareness in practical and reflective ways.

    To achieve the COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills, all four modules must be completed in full.

  • Teaching begins in September. Two study options are available:

    • Tuesday daytime (September to April)

    • Thursday evening (September to September)

    • £1,120, paid in four instalments of £280

    • 25% deposit (£70.00) required before each module; balance must be paid in full before the end of each module

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NEXT INTAKE:
September 2025

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COMMITMENT:
Tuesday daytime OR Thursday evenings

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LOCATION:
Murray’s Initiative
14 North Claremont St, Glasgow

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FEES:
£1120 per year
(see drop-down for full details)

What our past students say:

I gained everything I expected from the course — and so much more. The quality of delivery was excellent, and the dynamic group made discussions and practice sessions really engaging

A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.
A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.

The course not only deepened my knowledge of counselling theory, but also gave me an unexpected journey of personal growth. That aspect alone has been hugely beneficial

A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.
A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.

This course exceeded all my expectations. It has been one of the most positive experiences of my life, with lessons that will continue to have a long-lasting impact on me and those around me

A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.
A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.

Although the course didn’t qualify me to volunteer as a counsellor, it gave me something even more valuable: a lived experience of the ethos of counselling, the therapeutic process, and the power of reflective practice. It delivered far more than I ever thought possible in such a short time

A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.
A quotation mark made from the Astral blue apostrophe in Murray's logo.
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Book Now

To book your place, please complete our course booking form below. Early enrolment is strongly recommended, as places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.