Is a psychology degree an acceptable entry qualification for the Level 4 diploma?

A psychology degree is a knowledge based qualification which requires a high level of academic ability. Counselling is a relational activity which depends on personal qualities, self-awareness and soft skills such as the ability to build a trusting relationship, work with difference and diversity and to convey empathic understanding.

These aspects are not included or assessed in most psychology degree programmes and have to be learned and developed in a very different learning context. Unless psychology degree students have other relevant experience it is advisable to start with the Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CSK-L2).