CPCAB Level 2 vs TQUK Level 2

Helping counselling students understand the differences in training courses

Whilst enquiries and applications come in on a daily basis for our Level 2 courses, we are also sending out regular emails to Level 3 applicants explaining that their TQUK Level 2 does not meet the entry requirements for the CPCAB Level 3, which is of course a disappointment for them.  In our replies, we try to let them down gently by highlighting the essential need to study a Level 2 course that focuses heavily on the development of robust listening skills, which are practiced weekly with peers. 

The other equally important component of the Level 2 training is the focus on Self-Awareness.  Every Level 2 student I’ve ever taught has reflected on their training and stated something along the lines of “I came on this course to learn how to be a good listener, but I’ve ended up learning so much about myself, which I didn’t expect”. 

Self-awareness is essential in counselling work; if we do not know ourselves intimately, this can impact the work with clients and we can be caught off guard by our own emotions when something comes up out of the blue in the work.  If we have already looked closely at ourselves, we reduce the element of surprise in the counselling room, but part of the training also prepares you for accepting that self-awareness development is an ongoing process; no one reaches the end of the line and stops.

So the question you’re likely asking is “How do I know which course is right for me?”

If you're thinking about a career in counselling, you've probably come across both the CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills and The Skills Network Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills.

At first glance they appear very similar—they're both Level 2 qualifications and both introduce counselling skills. However, they are designed for quite different purposes.

The best course depends entirely on what you hope to achieve.

A Side-by-Side Comparison

CPCAB Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills	The Skills Network Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
Specialist counselling qualification	General vocational qualification
Awarded by CPCAB, the UK's specialist counselling awarding body	Awarded by TQUK
Usually taught face-to-face or live online with a tutor	Self-paced online learning
Extensive counselling skills practice with peers	Primarily knowledge-based learning
Strong focus on self-awareness and personal development	Focus on understanding counselling skills and theory
Regular tutor feedback and group discussion	Online assessments with tutor support
Builds confidence through experiential learning	Flexible study around work and family commitments
Designed as the first stage towards professional counsellor training	Ideal for developing helping skills in a range of settings
Widely recognised by counselling training providers as progression to Level 3	Some counselling training providers may not accept it as direct progression to Level 3—it's important to check before enrolling.

What Makes CPCAB Different?

CPCAB (Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body) is the UK's specialist awarding organisation for counselling qualifications.

Its courses are designed specifically for people who wish to develop counselling skills and, for many learners, continue on the professional training pathway through Levels 3 and 4.

One of the biggest differences is the emphasis on experiential learning.

Rather than simply reading about counselling, students spend time:

• practising counselling skills

• giving and receiving feedback

• developing self-awareness

• reflecting on their own experiences

• learning within a supportive group

These experiences are difficult to replicate through independent online study.

The Benefits of The Skills Network Course

That doesn't mean The Skills Network course isn't valuable.

For many learners it offers:

• flexibility

• free funding (for eligible learners)

• the opportunity to study from home in your own time

• a good introduction to counselling concepts

  
  

If your goal is simply to understand counselling skills for your current role or your own personal interest, it may be an excellent option.

However, if you think you may eventually want to train as a professional counsellor, it's worth checking carefully whether your chosen Level 3 provider accepts it as an entry qualification.

The Skills Network itself advises that "the course is not accredited and some further education providers may not accept it as a precursor to Level 3 counselling training."

Which Course Should You Choose?

Choose The Skills Network Level 2 if you:

• want a flexible online course

• need to study around work or family

• want to improve communication skills

• aren't yet sure about becoming a counsellor

Choose CPCAB Level 2 if you:

• want to become a qualified counsellor

• enjoy learning with others

• value tutor feedback and skills practice

• want a recognised progression route into Levels 3 and 4

• are looking for a more immersive learning experience

Final Thoughts

There isn't a single "best" qualification—only the one that best fits your goals.

If you're curious about counselling and simply want to learn more, an online qualification may suit your needs.

If you're considering a future career as a counsellor, a CPCAB Level 2 course offers not only knowledge but the opportunity to develop the practical skills, self-awareness and professional foundations that counselling training is known for.

If you're still unsure which route is right for you, we'd be happy to talk through your options and help you choose the course that best supports your ambitions. You can book a call here, or you might like to check out the CPCAB’s Free Taster Course, or have a read of our Blog post ‘Is counselling training right for me?’

Wishing you all the best on your training journey 😊