Transform your passion for helping others into a rewarding counselling career
Counselling offers opportunities for a rewarding career in many varied fields, whether through private practice or as part of a larger organisation. There are a growing number of specialist fields in counselling, so if you’re thinking about taking the first step towards working as a counsellor, a course with NEC is a great way to get started.
You can choose one of three courses, depending on your prior experience and interests, and you’ll learn about the underlying principles of counselling techniques and practice.
There are no formal entry requirements for NEC’s counselling courses, but if you want to study Counselling Theory it would be beneficial for you to already be a practising or trainee counsellor, or to have a good understanding of counselling practice.
Why study a counselling course?
With NEC’s flexible online distance learning courses in counselling, you study at a time and pace to suit you.
When you become an NEC student, you’ll be supported by one of our expert NEC tutors. As well as being a qualified teacher with experience of assessing and tutoring online learners, your tutor will have experience of working in counselling.
Your tutor will support you as you work through the course, and advise you on completion of the assignments necessary to achieve your award.
You’ll also be able to call on the expertise of our dedicated student support team, by email or on the phone.
YOUR CHOICE
Counselling courses
Choose from the following online courses
A Taste of Counselling
If you’re considering a career in counselling then studying our introductory level A Taste of Counselling course online is the perfect first step.
Join an online learning community
Studying independently doesn’t have to mean studying alone. When you enrol to study counselling online with NEC, as well as having access to your personal tutor and dedicated student support team, you’ll become part of a friendly national and international online learning community.
Courses designed for online distance learning
We’ll provide all the course materials you need, and optional extra study guides are available to help you develop better study skills. The only essentials you need to provide are an internet connection, a sufficient standard of English to be able to understand the subject materials, and a drive to succeed!
Experience you can trust
NEC are innovators in distance learning, and all our courses are designed specifically for independent learners. You’ll access all your high quality course materials on learn@nec, our easy-to-use online learning platform, and your personal tutor will be there to help you succeed, commenting on your course assignments and preparing you for your exams.
All the support you need
At NEC, we’re experts in distance learning. Over the last 60-plus years, thousands of adults and young people across the UK and beyond have gained life-changing qualifications by studying with NEC. What matters most to us is the success of our students, so we offer all the support you need, combined with total flexibility to learn the way you want to.
Talk to one of our course advisors
Still unsure whether online distance learning is right for you?
Our friendly Course Advice Team are here to help answer your questions and take you through your options.
- Book a call and someone will get back to you at a convenient time.
- Or contact us today by phone or email.
We’re waiting to help you get ahead and achieve your goals, your way.
How it works
Discover more about studying with NEC.
Exams & assessment
Many of our online distance learning courses require exams to achieve your qualification.
Whilst our courses are flexible in terms of your study schedule, exam dates are set by the awarding organisation.
As an approved centre, we facilitate both exams and non-exam assessments.
Fee information
As an education charity dedicated to helping independent learners achieve life-changing qualifications we want to keep fees affordable. All of our course fees are clear and transparent to help you play for any additional costs.
Depending on your own circumstances, there are a number of possibilities for getting help with paying for your course.
WHAT OUR STUDENTS SAY
Frequently asked questions
Your common questions and concerns answered. Read more FAQs.
NEC offers flexible, online GCSEs, A levels, and vocational courses that you can study anytime, anywhere. When you enrol, you’ll receive a welcome email with login details for learn@nec, our virtual learning platform.
You’ll be supported by a qualified subject tutor who provides feedback on your assignments and helps guide your progress. Our expertly designed courses include engaging materials, interactive learning activities, and selected online resources — all created by experienced teachers, examiners, and learning designers.
Our courses are designed to let you study at your own pace — all within a clearly defined enrolment period to help keep you on track. Many courses let you study your way, with flexible assignment deadlines to suit your schedule. Others may include set dates — especially for things like exams or NEAs (Non-Exam Assessment) — to help you stay on track.
Yes! You can connect with other learners in your course’s online forum. Many students find discussing topics with peers helps reinforce their learning — and helps them feel part of a wider learning community.
Yes. You can enrol any time and begin studying when it suits you. However, if your course involves an exam, you’ll need to complete all assignments and assessments (also known as coursework or NEA — Non-Exam Assessment) in time for set exam dates — so don’t leave it too late!
Check the individual course pages for guidance, or book a call with an advisor to discuss your timeline and study plans.
Yes — NEC is ideal for international students. Many of our courses are available worldwide, but there are a few things to check before enrolling:
Qualification recognition: Ensure your chosen qualification is recognised in your country.
Our team is happy to help you explore your options.
