Welcome to Sweet Track's core counselling training, where psycho-spiritual education thrives. Our aim is to create a dynamic learning environment that draws wisdom from diverse traditions and our core ethos is to respect and encompass each other’s differences

We do not offer learner funding, however, we do provide the option to spread out the cost of courses through a monthly instalment plan. 

We understand that students come with diverse backgrounds and experiences. We evaluate each student individually, considering life experiences, previous training, and relevant work or skills experience. This assessment helps us determine if a student can enter directly into a Level 3 course based on their qualifications. For those aspiring to pursue a Level 4 Diploma, having completed a Level 3 training is strongly recommended. We prioritise a comprehensive understanding of foundational concepts before advancing to higher levels of training.

The CPCAB is our awarding body that has accredited our core counselling training. They are the only awarding body across Europe that specialises in counselling and psychotherapy. 

Absolutely, we welcome students from other training providers. As part of the enrolment process, you will have an interview with one of our core tutors. Additionally, we will ask for evidence of your prior learning to evaluate your suitability for our courses.

We value every individual seeking to join our centre, and the deposit plays a crucial role in securing your place on our courses. We commit to maintaining a smaller number of places to facilitate personalised learning experiences, and securing a spot often means turning away other potential students. Therefore, the deposit stands as a commitment from both sides and while we understand unexpected circumstances can arise, the non-refundable nature of the deposit is due to the commitments and preparations made on our end to deliver a high-quality learning experience. 

However, rest assured, in the rare event where circumstances beyond our control lead to course cancellation or changes, we would promptly address refund matters, as per our policies.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise in life, prompting difficult decisions. If you find yourself in a position where joining or continuing with a course becomes challenging or impossible due to unforeseen circumstances, please let us know as soon as you can. Course deposits are non-refundable, as are course payments. In these situations, we encourage open communication and we will do our best to guide and assist you with the process, ensuring that you have the necessary information and support during this time. 

Becoming a qualified counsellor involves a dedicated journey of learning, growth, and practical experience. For those embarking on their training from Level 2, it can typically span up to four years before qualifying. Upon completion of the Level 4 Diploma, you are equipped with the expertise and competence to begin a professional journey as practicing counsellors.

At Sweet Track, we promote diversity and choice. It is for this reason that we have made a conscious decision not to align ourselves to a specific membership body. This does not mean you cannot become a member of the BACP when in training or qualified, as our core counselling courses meets the basic requirements for membership with the BACP and other bodies, such as the NCPS.

Completing a counselling diploma can open up several career paths within the field of counselling and mental health. Some potential career options include:

1. Counsellor: You could work as a counsellor in various settings such as private practice, counselling agencies, schools, colleges, NHS or charitable organisations.

2. Addiction Counsellor: Specialise in supporting individuals dealing with substance abuse or addiction issues, working in rehabilitation centers, community organisations, or private practice.

3. Counselling in Specific Contexts: You might choose to specialise in areas such as relationship, couples and family therapy, grief counselling, trauma counselling, or working with specific demographics like children, adolescents, or the elderly. 

4. Community Outreach and Advocacy: Engage in community-based work, promoting mental health awareness, providing counselling services, and advocating for mental health support within communities or non-profit organisations. It is important to add that continual personal development and further training is recommended to specialise in specific areas of support.

5. Research and Academia: Pursue opportunities in research or academia, conducting studies in the field of counselling, teaching future counsellors, or contributing to the development of counselling theories and practices. 

A psychology degree generally concentrates on the academic understanding of human behaviour, cognition, and the scientific study of the mind.

How counselling training differs is on the practical techniques and interpersonal skills used to help individuals navigate emotional, mental, or behavioural challenges, as well as the learning of different theories to support your understanding of self and another. These vital aspects typically fall outside the scope of conventional psychology degrees and training, and will require nurturing within a different educational context.

With this in mind, we would recommend commencing your counselling training at Level 2, unless you have other experience, skills and training that demonstrates a knowledge and understanding of listening skills and how to hold the space for another.