Starting to navigate the minefield of training

Harris, M ORCID: 0000-0003-3124-4158 and Anacleto, L (2026) 'Starting to navigate the minefield of training.' In: Harris, M, ed. How to become a counsellor: a practical guide. Palgrave Macmillan, Cham, pp. 39-71. ISBN 9783032351401

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the training considerations involved in becoming a counsellor, beginning with the importance of clarifying one’s personal motivation, or “why”, for entering the profession. It presents counselling as a meaningful and flexible career with growing demand, while also acknowledging challenges, including emotional labour, burnout risk, financial costs, and the need for resilience, self-awareness, and continuing professional development. The chapter outlines major counselling specialisms and core theoretical orientations—such as humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioural, integrative, systemic, and third-wave approaches—emphasising that aspiring practitioners should select training and modalities that align with their values, strengths, and intended client groups. It also examines the increasing relevance of digital counselling and artificial intelligence, noting both the practical benefits of technology and the ethical limits of AI in therapeutic work, especially in relation to empathy, risk, confidentiality, and professional responsibility. A substantial focus is placed on the UK training route, including Level 2 to Level 4 progression, “qualifying” course placement requirements, clinical supervision, guided learning hours for courses, governing body registration, and the distinction between qualification and ‘accreditation’. Finally, the chapter encourages reflective practice and careful research into client populations, specialist pathways, and governing bodies, arguing that a well-informed and values-led approach is essential for building a safe, ethical, and sustainable career in counselling.

Item Type:	Book Chapter or Section
Divisions:	School of Sciences
Related URLs:	https://link.springer.com/book/978303235...
Date Deposited:	02 Nov 2026 12:45
Last Modified:	02 Nov 2026 12:45
URN:	https://researchspace.bathspa.ac.uk/id/eprint/18034

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