Update
Update
New Level 3 Certificate in Applied Counselling Studies (CAST-L3)

We’re delighted to announce that funding for the highly anticipated Level 3 Certificate in Applied Counselling Studies (CAST-L3) has been secured! This opens the doors to a new era of regulated and funded extended level 3 qualifications, with availability starting January 2024.

Mapped to the BACP skills competency framework, this qualification offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. It goes beyond traditional counselling training by also preparing candidates for non-counselling positions through understanding professional frameworks and approaches to helping.

Watch the launch webinar

Catch up with our qualification launch webinar in this video.

Apply to offer the qualification

Take the next step in shaping the future of counselling education by applying to deliver the new CAST-L3.

Full details about the CAST-L3 qualification and supporting documentation can be found on our CAST-L3 qualification page.

Podcast
Podcast
Special Edition: How to Become a Counsellor: CPCAB's Free Counselling Training Taster

In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Derek Cunningham from the CPCAB on our new Training Taster and what it offers prospective learners.

Some of the topics that Rory and Derek discuss in this episode include:

  • Why it's important that you receive training through legitimate routes in order to achieve recognised qualifications.
  • How the CPCAB's free counselling training taster is designed to help you make an informed decision, choosing the route that is right for you.
  • A week-long course that is purely online is unlikely to gain you a legitimate qualification.
  • Why it's essential that you're training in a community with feedback, camaraderie, peers and tutors that can help you during your journey.
  • The idea that you should be able to receive feedback that is open, constructive, and fair, to allow you to improve.
  • How crucial face-to-face time is for counselling training.
  • The importance of learning how to give and receive feedback.
Listen to the podcast and view resources
Counselling Research Award
Counselling Research Award
Counselling Research Award 2023

Elaine Moore was selected as the 2023 CPCAB Counselling Research Award Winner for her paper,''Talk with me outside' Therapists' experiences of the therapeutic relationship in natural outdoor settings: A qualitative Study''.  Elaine's research is about the psychotherapeutic relationship and the possibilities that arise from it when therapy is taken outdoors.

Find out more and watch videos of previous winners
Event
Event
The Race Series: The Difficult Topic of Race

CPCAB is excited to welcome Sarah Henry to deliver 'The Difficult Topic of Race' webinar, which is part of her training package ‘The Race Series’.

The webinar will take place Friday 2nd February at 10am.

We're pleased to offer the CPCAB community tickets at a discounted price, please check your email for details. We anticipate high demand for this event, so please book now to avoid disappointment.


Read More
Update
Update
CPCAB's Free Counselling Training Taster Now Live

We're very excited to announce 'How to Become a Counsellor: CPCAB's Free Counselling Training Taster' is now live!

The Taster aims to give prospective learners an understanding of the journey to becoming a counsellor, including the skills and knowledge they are likely to acquire on the way. It also offers insights into the counselling landscape and emphasises the benefits of in-person and synchronous online remote learning, providing clarity as individuals start their path toward becoming a counsellor.

The Training Taster is completely free and can be accessed here.

Centre Update
Centre Update
September 2023 Newsletter

Updates to support and inform you as you settle back in to the new academic year.

Featuring:

  • Regulatory Update: Funding Rollover
  • Alternative Level 3 Qualification
  • Level 5 Award in Online & Phone Counselling Practice
  • Annual Declarations
  • 23/24 CPCAB Document Review
  • Centre Finder Preferences
  • EV Visits
  • How to Become a Counsellor: CPCAB Free Counselling Training Taster
  • Standardisation
  • External Assessment Update

and more...

To read the September edition of our newsletter please click the link below

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
July 2023 Newsletter

Get ready for the new academic year, with our July 2023 newsletter.

For the newest regulatory updates, a brand new CPCAB Level 5 award in online and phone counselling practice and more.

To read the July edition of our newsletter please click the link below

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB's April Newsletter

Check out our April 2023 newsletter for info on regulatory updates, Standardisation Training, External Verification visits and more.

To read the April edition of our newsletter please click the link below

Read more
Learner Update
Learner Update
SCoPEd Framework Announcement: You will be pleased to know that CPCAB qualifications are fully represented and valued within this framework.

Today, on the 8th February 2023, the chair of the SCoPEd Oversight Committee has announced that all partners in the SCoPEd partnership have collectively adopted the SCoPEd framework. 

The SCoPEd partner organisations are:

·       Association of Christians in Counselling and Linked Professions (ACC)

·      British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP)

·       British Psychoanalytic Council (BPC)

·       Human Givens Institute (HGI)

·       National Counselling Society (NCS)

·       UK Council for Psychotherapy (UKCP)

We at CPCAB recognise the united adoption of the framework and thank the partners for their years of work on this challenging project.  The framework collates research into the existing practical elements and competencies that are taught throughout the current landscape of counselling and psychotherapy training and puts together a coherent map that aims to represent the value and scope of counselling education in this country.

You will be pleased to know that CPCAB qualifications are fully represented and valued within this framework.  The implementation of the framework should only increase the level of understanding, recognition and respect for the level of training you have gained with CPCAB when moving into your counselling career. 

For example, the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, long acknowledged as an excellent vocational training option to become a ‘qualified counsellor’, and an important entry point to the profession is clearly shown in the framework in column A.  The knowledge, skills and behaviours you would expect (as a minimum) to achieve competence in through your Level 4 Diploma are reflected throughout the overarching themes.  The SCoPEd framework recognises and does not alter the fact that the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling from CPCAB does still qualify graduates as a counsellor, as it has always done.

CPCAB’s post-qualifying qualifications are also represented through the enhanced competencies within the framework. These are accrued through experience or through further training.

During the development process CPCAB have been consulted by the partners and we have given feedback on the framework throughout its evolution.  We continue to work with centres, candidates, employers, and the professional associations to champion the value of vocational training and ensure that our candidates have parity of esteem, excellent career prospects, and meaningful opportunities for progression within the counselling and psychotherapy profession.

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Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB's January Newsletter

Check out our January 2023 newsletter for info on Upcoming External Verification Visits,
Qualification Updates, Standardisation Training, Upcoming Focus Groups and more

 To read the January edition of our newsletter please click the link below

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB's October Newsletter

Check out our October 2022 newsletter for info on EA handbooks, qualification updates, standardisation training, CPD and more

To read the October edition of our newsletter please click the link below

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
Facebook Tutor Community heading into triple figures

The CPCAB Facebook Tutor Community Group is now active and has almost reached 100 members. This is a collective group with a wealth of experience and knowledge, a great place to network and share ideas. As we plan for the new academic year in September, some of us will be teaching qualifications for the first time. Some of us will be looking for new ideas and exercises to share in our classes to make learning fun and exciting as well as meaningful and valuable. If you’re not already a member, pop along to the Facebook Group page and join us.

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB's July Newsletter

Our July newsletter featured updates on COVID-19, External Assessment handbooks, regulation, tutor diversity sangha, the BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification and much more.

To read July's update click the link below.

Read more
Podcast
Podcast
Special Edition: CPCAB Progression Route

In this special episode of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes speaks with Derek Cunningham from the CPCAB on choosing the right courses to become a fully qualified counsellor.

There is more than one way to study counselling, and throughout this episode, Rory and Derek will take us through some of the options available, and the key things to consider when choosing the best progression route for you:

  • Make sure that at the end of whatever course you take, you will be qualified to join a professional membership organisation.
  • Take courses that are Ofqual approved in order to be able to join a professional body.
  • Be sure to join an ethical body that is accredited with professional standards authority.
  • Not all level 2 and 3 qualifications are equivalent – you will need classroom and practical hours in order to progress further.
  • It’s incredibly important that you have been amongst peers and received feedback through discussion.

Listen to the podcast and view resources
Update
Update
TC-L4 Newly Revised Qualification Content

We would like to let centres know that CPCAB’s Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) will fully incorporate BACP’s Online and Phone Therapy Competence Framework for all new registrations in 2022-23.

Therefore, supporting learners to be fully prepared for the working landscape of the future with the ability to work effectively either in-person or through online or telephone mediums.

Centres should look out for new TC-L4 documentation and support resources coming soon to help them integrate these new areas into their delivery.

If you have any questions about these changes please contact supportlevel4@cpcab.co.uk.

Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB stands in solidarity with the people of UkraineCPCAB are shocked and deeply saddened at the unspeakable violence being inflicted on Ukraine. We stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine as they encounter such anguish and injustice. CPCAB are supporting the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal by making a monthly donation while the conflict continues.

“At least 3 million people have fled their homes to escape the conflict in Ukraine.

Heavy fighting, shelling and air strikes across the country have had devastating consequences for civilians. Homes have been destroyed. Families have been separated. Lives have been lost.

At Ukraine’s borders with Poland, Romania, Hungary, Slovakia and Moldova, huge numbers of people are arriving with only what they can carry.

DEC charities and their local partners are in Ukraine and in neighbouring countries are providing food, water, shelter and medical assistance.”

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB pays tribute to Pete Sanders

We have learned with great sadness of Pete Sanders’ sudden death in early February. He was the founder, with his wife Maggie Taylor-Sanders, of PCCS books, a publishing house with a commitment to getting a better deal for people experiencing mental distress. He was also a prolific author and editor, making important contributions to the worlds of person-centred counselling and counselling education. 

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
CPCAB's January Newsletter

We hope you had a restful festive break and have settled into 2022. We understand it's not been the smoothest start to the year with the rise of the Omicron variant, however, after two very difficult and testing years we remain hopeful about the year that lies ahead. As always, we are here to support you wherever we can. 

Read more
Podcast
Podcast
Special Edition Podcast - CPCAB Level 5 Qualification: Counselling Children and Young People

In this special edition podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes from Counselling Tutor speaks with CPCAB's Heather Price about the exciting introduction of a new level 5 qualification - Counselling Children and Young People (11-18).

The details of this new specialised CPCAB qualification that are discussed include:

  • This specific training is necessary to work with young people, especially due to tricky areas such as confidentiality and consent.
  • Before being able to take this course, a good grounding is needed beforehand. As it is a level 5 qualification, you will already be a qualified counsellor before choosing to specialise - it requires knowledge, skills and training.
  • It includes 20 hours of personal therapy as working with other people’s childhoods may trigger something from your own.
  • It is a regulated qualification.
  • It is in partnership with the Open University.
  • It includes 120 flexible guided learning hours which will take one year to complete.
Listen to the podcast and view resources
Update
Update
FAB Awards

In November, Gill Baker (CPCAB Regulation and Complaints Manager), Heather Price (CPCAB Senior Counselling Qualifications Professional) and Molly Ayre (CPCAB Qualification Development Lead) attended the 2-day Federation of Awarding Bodies (FAB) conference and Awards. 

The FAB Awards recognises the contributions made by awarding organisations and their employees to education and skills in the UK over the past year.  

This year, the event focused on delivering for the learner and society in challenging times. Over the past 18 months, awarding and assessment organisations have proven to be resilient and adaptive to the many challenges as a result of the pandemic as well as innovators in qualification development and assessment. 

We were delighted to be shortlisted for 2 prestigious awards for the awarding industry: 

Qualification of the Year (Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People CYP-L5) 

Collaboration of the Year (BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification TC-L4) 

The event was a great opportunity to talk to exhibitors, listen to key speeches, panel discussions and attend a variety of workshops. 

CPCAB certainly have a key role to play as we emerge from the pandemic and are committed to ensuring that we continue to offer services that are fit for the future by growing as a progressive and inclusive Awarding Organisation. 

Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - October 2021

Welcome back to the start of a new academic year!  We hope you have had a restful and enjoyable summer.  The weather is beginning to feel autumnal again but it is also harvest time and the landscape is looking particularly beautiful in our rather rural part of the country. 

Whilst we are still adjusting to these unusual times, there is much to celebrate.  With the continuation of the adapted external assessments being confirmed beyond the end of the pandemic, and significant work completed to develop the quality framework for online delivery to support centres to offer their courses online in the future, it’s clear that we have come on a significant journey together since the start of the pandemic...

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre & Tutor Update - October 2021

Welcome back to the start of a new academic year!  We hope you have had a restful and enjoyable summer break.  The weather is beginning to feel autumnal again but it is also harvest time and the landscape is looking particularly beautiful in our rather rural part of the country.

Whilst we are still adjusting to these unusual times, there is much to celebrate.  With the continuation of the adapted external assessments being confirmed beyond the end of the pandemic, and significant work completed to develop the quality framework for online delivery...

Read more
Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - July 2021

Welcome to this summer’s edition of Update, which includes lots of important information and, of course, the final ‘humour’ spot that we know is appreciated!

One of the less well-advertised impacts of the whole pandemic situation is the difficulty your Update Editor is finding in writing an opening paragraph for your newsletter that is fresh and encouraging whilst acknowledging the strangeness that is still very much part of our lives. I turned to the July 2020 edition for inspiration and our opening section included this...

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre & Tutor Update - July 2021

Welcome to this summer’s edition of Update, which includes lots of important information and, of course, the final ‘humour’ spot that we know is appreciated!

One of the less well-advertised impacts of the whole pandemic situation is the difficulty your Update Editor is finding in writing an opening paragraph for your newsletter that is fresh and encouraging whilst acknowledging the strangeness that is still very much part of our lives. I turned to the July 2020 edition for inspiration and our opening section included this...

Read more
Update
Update
New qualification alert!

Do you have learners who want to work with children and young people? Then this might be just what you are looking for.

Introducing the new CPCAB Level 5 – Diploma in Counselling Children and Young People (aged 11-18), the ONLY regulated qualification for this age range on the Ofqual register.

Why choose to deliver this qualification?

  • A recognised qualification specifically designed for qualified counsellors wishing to work with children and young people in the community e.g. schools, colleges and specialist agencies.
  • Enables candidates to meet professional association membership requirements/competences for working with this age range.
  • Offers an alternative Level 5 qualification to PC-L5 and CBT-L5

More information is available here

AVAILABLE NOW!

To register your interest and to find out more contact heather@cpcab.co.uk

Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome Walk Tall to the CPCAB family.

This centre has been approved to deliver the following qualifications:

Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome Neuro Harmony Limited to the CPCAB family.

This centre has been approved to deliver the following qualifications:

Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome LKC Training and Support Services to the CPCAB family!

This centre has been approved to deliver our Level 2 Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills (ICSK-L2).

Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - April 2021

Welcome to the April edition of ‘Update’ newsletter.  We hope you’re enjoying the longer days and the promise of summer on its way. 

We’re all hearing from the media that it’s been a hard winter for many of us and this is coming through in some of the approaches we are receiving from both tutors and learners. 

If things do reach the point where you need to consider making a complaint, please read the article later in this newsletter, with guidance that we hope you’ll find useful.  But our main message is please, be kind to each other and remember, it won’t always be like this.  Sending you all our best wishes for a good … and healthy … summer and beyond.

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre & Tutor Update - April 2021

Welcome to the April edition of ‘Update’ newsletter.  We hope you’re enjoying the longer days and the promise of summer on its way.

Sending you all our best wishes for a good … and healthy … summer and beyond

Read more
Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome Positive Routes to Wellbeing to the CPCAB family.

This centre has been approved to deliver our Level 2 Award in Introduction to Counselling Skills (ICSK-L2).

Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome STARS Dorset to the CPCAB family.

This centre has been approved to deliver the following Continuing Professional Development Workshops

• Working with Complex Trauma – Listener Induction Training

• Working with Complex Trauma – Counsellor Induction Training 

Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
National Counselling Society Article

The Professional Standards Authority (PSA) initiated a comprehensive strategic review of the Accredited Registers programme in 2020, and recently the National Counselling Society (NCS) made public their response.

This article represents the NCS’s evidence-informed response to the PSA review and includes some fascinating research and collation of information from their members, which CPCAB felt may be of interest to our network. 

We share this as part of our commitment to engaging our learners and centres with developments across the field of counselling and psychotherapy.

Download
Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome Birmingham Christian College to the CPCAB family!

This centre has been approved to deliver our Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills (CSK-L2) and Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies (CST-L3)

Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome Foundation Counselling to the CPCAB family!

This centre has been approved to deliver our Level 2 Award in Understanding Substance Misuse (USM-L2).

Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - January 2021

Best wishes to all of our learners at the start of a new year. After the ups and downs of 2020 we’re looking forward to what 2021 will bring with mixed feelings, particularly as we are facing restrictions in our daily lives again and the news is grim, but we hope that you feel refreshed anyway after the festive break and ready to take on new challenges.  As always, we are here to support you wherever we can and we send you all best wishes for the year ahead. Please stay safe.

Read more
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre Update - January 2021

Best wishes to all of our centres at the start of a new year. After the ups and downs of 2020 we’re looking forward to what 2021 will bring with mixed feelings, particularly as we are facing restrictions in our daily lives again and the news is grim, but we hope that you feel refreshed anyway after the festive break and ready to take on new challenges. As always, we are here to support you wherever we can and we send you all best wishes for the year ahead. Please stay safe. 

Read more
Update
Update
E-Portfolio Survey

Teaching and learning has dramatically changed as a result of Covid-19. In response to this and feedback received, the team at CPCAB are researching what digital resources can further support our centres and learners to enhance the services and support provided by CPCAB. Your feedback would be greatly appreciated to understand the current level of demand for e-services and we would like to ask you to spare 5 minutes to complete this survey which specifically looks at e-portfolios.

An e-portfolio is a system that allows candidates to build and store a portfolio of work in the cloud. Candidates can store documents, pictures, audio or video clips and attach criteria to them for their tutor to see. Tutors can provide feedback to candidates on their work, sign it off and use the system to monitor progress of candidates. Furthermore, assessors, verifiers and moderators can be given remote access to portfolios.

Update
Update
Latest Update from CPCAB 05/01/2021

We hope you were able to enjoy the festivities despite them being very different to previous years and we wish you a very happy new year.

After the recent government announcement CPCAB would like to reassure you all that our qualification delivery and assessments will continue to be supported throughout this year, despite the changing Covid-19 restrictions. The guidance document available here continues to be relevant and offers advice on course delivery, internal assessment, external assessment and placement work throughout the academic year.

All CPCAB External Assessments are due to go ahead as planned using the adapted formats outlined in the guidance document above.

CPCAB will shortly be releasing updated support information to centres on quality remote delivery and how to ensure candidates gain the most from their online studies.

Video
Video
Learning Outcomes and Assessment Criteria

Our latest video explains the difference between learning outcomes and assessment criteria for CPCAB learners. 

Watch the video here
Update
Update
New Centre Alert

We are delighted to welcome ClearPath Counselling Training to the CPCAB family!

This centre has been approved to deliver our Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (PC-L5)

Podcast
Podcast
Supporting Students to Gain Counselling Placements

At CPCAB we want to do all we can to support our students during these challenging times.

In the latest Counselling Tutor podcast Kelly Budd, Head of Qualifications at CPCAB, talks about student placements during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kelly explains the letter to placement providers that has been written by CPCAB and may be used by CPCAB centres and candidates when approaching agencies to offer reassurance and outline our commitment to good practice.

Listen to the podcast and view resources
Video
Video
Guide to Remote External Verification 2020/2021

Due to Covid-19 and for the safety of all our tutors and CPCAB staff, our External Verification process is currently being carried out remotely. We have put together a video in which John Coupe, one of CPCAB's External Verifiers (EV), explains how remote EV visits are conducted and what to expect from them. He also offers some tips on how to make the process easier for your team.

Watch the video here
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
New Vision for Mental Health – an Ecological Paradigm

Established by CPCAB, the New Vision project explores the question: What might a very different approach to mental healthcare look like, knowing what we know today?

This article describes the New Vision for Mental Health project and its underpinning ecological paradigm. It gives some examples of the many new and interesting approaches that have arisen across the field of mental health and well-being. It also looks at some of the challenging and stressful conditions faced by those working within the current system, and addresses two of its key ‘philosophical’ problems.

Download
Update
Update
New Centre Alerts

Going forward we will be bringing you updates on centres who have been newly approved to start running CPCAB courses. You can find our full list of established centres on our Centre Finder.

To kick things off, we are delighted to welcome Malachite School of Counselling to the CPCAB family. This centre has been approved to deliver our BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification – CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.

Video
Video
Blended Learning Video Series

Tutors and centre colleagues...

We have created a short video series examining the benefits and challenges of using popular blended learning models. The models include Individual Rotation, Inside-Out/Outside-In, Flipped Classroom and Project Based.

You can find the link to the introduction video below. Watch the whole series on the CPCAB YouTube channel.

Watch the video here
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre Update - September 2020

Welcome back to all of our lovely tutors and centre staff after what has been a very peculiar summer!  We hope you have managed to have some sort of break and feel ready to face the new academic year.  This year will, of course, be even more challenging than usual as schools and colleges try to get to grips with balancing the safety of their learners with providing a rich and meaningful education. At CPCAB we have been surfing the wave of COVID updates and trying to keep you informed as far as we possibly can.  It hasn’t been easy and at times we have been searching for a reliable supplier of crystal balls, but we are here to work together with you to deliver our qualifications in the best way possible. Do keep checking the CPCAB websites for the latest news.

Stay safe, everyone!

Read more
Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - September 2020
Welcome back to all of our lovely learners, new ones and old friends, after what has been a very peculiar summer! We hope you have managed to have some sort of break and feel ready to face the new academic year.  This year will, of course, be even more challenging than usual as schools and colleges try to get to grips with balancing the safety of their learners with providing a rich and meaningful education. At CPCAB we have been surfing the wave of COVID updates and trying to keep you informed as far as we possibly can. It hasn’t been easy and at times we have been searching for a reliable supplier of crystal balls, but we are here to work together with you to ensure that our qualifications are delivered in the best way possible. Do keep checking the CPCAB websites for the latest news.

Stay safe, everyone! 
Read more
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
An Introduction to Online and Telephone Counselling - A free course by Counselling Tutor

Our friends at Counselling Tutor have created a free CPD course for candidates studying the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling (TC-L4) and higher levels. The course could benefit CPCAB student counsellors who need to move their face-to-face placement online temporarily, due to social distancing. It provides some basic training to support their development in working safely and ethically while using online technology and/or the telephone during this challenging time.

Please use the link below to download further information.

Download
Centre Update
Centre Update
New BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification

Read the latest press release about our exciting new qualification partnership with the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy.

Read more
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
Mitigated Results

CPCAB wish to give our heartfelt thanks to you all for working through this challenging period with us.  We are pleased to let you know that all mitigated results for Level 2 and 3 qualifications have now been released.  These will be followed by the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling Adapted External Assessment results on the 24th August and the results for the Level 5 and 6 qualifications on the 7th September.

We are fortunate in that we did not have to adjust any calculated results and were able to depend upon the professional judgement of our tutors in generating accurate outcomes for your candidates.

We have updated our CPCAB Coronavirus Statement and the associated Frequently Asked Questions.  We hope that these provide useful guidance to your centre on the next steps.  These will continue to be updated on a regular basis.

Download
Video
Video
Planning for New Courses in 2020/21

As the 2020/21 teaching year approaches we take a look at the options available to CPCAB centres for running qualifications whilst adhering to social distancing guidelines.

Watch the video here
Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre Update - July 2020

We send our thoughts and greetings to our CPCAB friends and colleagues at what continues to be a difficult time.  

In qualifications terms, we have been doing our utmost to send out clear guidance that fits in with our central government’s drive to enable as many of our UK learners as possible to achieve their qualifications at the expected time, whilst making sure that standards are being maintained. It hasn’t been easy and we are conscious that we have made more work for you at a time when you are already coping with very difficult challenges.  But as always, you have risen to the occasion and we thank you for it. As we’ve said before, please continue to check the CPCAB website for more updates as they come through.

We send you our very warmest of wishes for good health in both mind and body, and hope that you are able to take some pleasure from this very unusual summer. Stay safe. Stay well.

Read more
Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - July 2020

We send our thoughts and greetings to our CPCAB learners at what continues to be a difficult time.  

In qualifications terms, we have been doing our utmost to send out clear guidance that fits in with our central government’s drive to enable as many of our UK learners as possible to achieve their qualifications at the expected time, whilst making sure that standards are being maintained. Our aim is that nobody in the future will be able to claim that a 2020 graduate was allowed to qualify at a lower level.

We send you our very warmest of wishes for good health in both mind and body, and hope that you are able to take some pleasure from this very unusual summer. Stay safe. Stay well.

Read more
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
Research Paper

CPCAB are proud to share a research paper that has recently been published by our Counselling Qualifications Professional, Cath Altson alongside her co-authors.

"A glimpse of love – the therapist’s experience of love in the therapeutic relationship" 

Thanks go to AHPb and the Self & Society journal for their kind permission to share the article and we hope you enjoy reading it!

Download
Podcast
Podcast
#156 - The new BACP Approved Practitioner QualificationIn our last episode of the academic year Ray van der Poel reflects on the way in which our podcasts, in association with Counselling Tutor, have enabled CPCAB to engage with learners and tutors in a new way. He also discusses the new BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification available from September 2020.
Listen to the podcast and view resources
Podcast
Podcast
#155 - Planning New Counselling Training Courses 2020/21

As you start to plan for your next courses, it is possible that not all students or tutors will be able to return to the classroom. In this podcast, Molly Ayre discusses options for a blended approach to teaching and learning.

Listen to the podcast and view resources
Centre Update
Centre Update
New BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification

CPCAB are pleased to offer a new BACP Approved Practitioner Qualification - CPCAB Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling to CPCAB centres who wish to take part in this exciting pilot from September 2020.

This pilot is available to centres currently approved to run our TC-L4 qualification.

Read more
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
Curated Conversations

We want to get people talking by sharing a series of ‘Curated Conversations’ on important topics. The first topic focuses on diversity and the Black Lives Matter movement. It includes a podcast by George the Poet, followed by a series of thought-provoking questions and resources.

Download the information below and join in the conversation on our Facebook and Twitter pages!

Download
Podcast
Podcast
#154 - Deliberate Practice

In this podcast Kelly Budd discusses the use of a Deliberate Practice approach and how it could be beneficial to a student’s educational journey.

Listen to the podcast and view resources
Downloadable Resource
Downloadable Resource
Black Lives Matter

CPCAB recognises the richness and diversity within our society and places diversity as one of the essential core 7 processes to practice. We are increasingly mindful of the need to recognise and meet the existential lived experience of each individual and the challenges this can bring for both the counsellor and the client. 

British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy (BACP) have brought together a selection of resources for working with race and diversity to support members and their clients. They include a keynote speech by Dr Dwight Turner who opened CPCAB and BACP’s joint diversity symposium in May 2019.

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Podcast
Podcast
#153 - COVID-19 - New Assessment Protocols
In light of exams being cancelled this summer, Heather Price discusses the new assessment protocols that have been agreed by Ofqual, the regulator in England. These alternative methods of assessment are to enable students to gain a result this summer so they can progress to the next level or graduate as a professional counsellor.  Heather explains the three categories of mitigation – calculation, adaption, or delay and the process and structure of the new adapted Level 4 case review.
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Video
Video
Key Dates for Centre Staff and Tutors

We've put together a quick reminder of the key dates highlighted in our 'Approach to Mitigation for Regulated Qualifications' guidance that was sent to all centre staff and tutors last week.

These dates include 19th June for mitigation forms although if we could receive these as soon as possible it would be appreciated. 29th June for adapted TC L4 External Assessment submissions.

If you are a candidate reading this post, please note we can ONLY accept forms and EA submissions from your centre who will be in touch.

Watch the video here
Podcast
Podcast
#152 – Adding CBT Skills to your Practice

In this podcast Ray van der Poel discusses how counsellors may wish to enhance their employability by completing the CPCAB Level 5 qualification in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). The qualification is intended for candidates who want to develop CBT skills and theory as an integral part of their professional counselling work.

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Podcast
Podcast
#151 - Why top up to Level 5?

When you have finished your Level 4 Diploma and completed a year of client work you might want to specialise in a particular client group, learn more about independent practice, or work towards the Open University Foundation Degree. In this podcast, Heather Price discusses Level 5 qualifications.

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Video
Video
A Message from all at CPCAB

On behalf of everyone at CPCAB we send our best wishes at this unprecedented time.

Our Video Production Team have produced a short video to explain the work going on behind the scenes to offer continued support to our learners and centres.

To receive our latest COVID-19 updates to your inbox sign up to our student mailing list.

Watch the video here
Counselling Research Award
Counselling Research Award
Counselling Research Award 2020

The CPCAB Counselling Research award recognises research that has important implications for counselling training practise.

This year, the judges have chosen Kirstin Bicknell as the winner of this prestigious award. Kirstin’s research is titled 'Transforming Laughter: An exploration of therapists' responses to client laughter'.

A video about the research will be made later in the year.

Find out more and watch videos of previous winners
Podcast
Podcast
#150 - Preparing for Exams

Please note: This podcast was recorded prior to the coronavirus crisis.

We understand how nerve-wracking many people find exams, it often brings back the fear and anxiety of sitting in a school exam hall. So when you have signed up for a course that has an examination in it, what are our best suggestions for getting through it and demonstrating what you have learnt? In this podcast we share our top tips on overcoming exam anxiety.

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Podcast
Podcast
#149 - Support Networks

In this week’s podcast Heather Price discusses the personal and professional support networks that are available once you have completed your course.

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Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update – April 2020

Best wishes to all of our wonderful students at this very strange time.

Your newsletter Editor has been doing this job for more years than she would care to admit but is finding this particular introduction to be quite unlike anything she has written before. It goes without saying that we wish you all well and to keep safe during a time that is wholly exceptional. Our meeting notes from just one month ago recorded that we were aware that the virus was coming … we are certainly in the thick of it now! What we hope is that you will feel that we’re in it together.

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Podcast
Podcast
#148 - Assessment Methods

It is CPCAB’s belief that the holistic nature of counselling work is best assessed through a variety of methods to ensure that learners are not only able to explain their theoretical understanding, but also demonstrate their ability to carry out practical skills. It is also important that the student’s ability to self-reflect is included, alongside the ability to give personal feedback to others at similar levels of training, therefore peer-assessment is also a key factor. This podcast discusses the various types of evidence that can be used to meet criteria.

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Podcast
Podcast
#147 - Issuing Results

You have finished your course, completed your portfolio, and passed the external assessment – what happens next? Heather discusses how results and certificates are issued.

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Podcast
Podcast
#146 - Dealing with Complaints

In this week’s podcast Kelly Budd - Head of Qualifications at CPCAB explains the complaints process if an issue were to arise with your learning experience.

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Video
Video
About CPCAB

To accompany the launch of our new website, CPCAB's video production team filmed this short video at our offices in Somerset. It will give you some insight into the team and ethos behind CPCAB qualifications.

(In case you are wondering, we finished filming just before Coronavirus-related restrictions on movement were introduced in the UK!)

Watch the video here
Podcast
Podcast
Accommodating Students and Centres during the Coronavirus Outbreak

* Information in this podcast was correct at the time of recording [28/03/2020], however more recent updates can be found here *

In this week's podcast Kelly Budd - Head of Qualifications at CPCAB talks about the guidance CPCAB is providing to centres and candidates during this unprecedented COVID-19 situation. CPCAB are committed to supporting the continuation of counselling training and enabling candidates to complete their studies.

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Podcast
Podcast
#145 – External Verifier Visit

What is an External Verifier (EV) and why might they visit your training group? In this podcast Heather discusses the role of EV’s within CPCAB and what they are looking for in a centre.

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Podcast
Podcast
#144 - What Do Tutors Learn from their Students?

Have you ever considered how much tutors learn from their students during the counselling teaching journey? In this podcast Kelly Budd, Head of Qualifications at CPCAB, reflects on the positive impact that students had on her growth and teaching practice.

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Podcast
Podcast
#143 - Minimum Assessment Levels

In this podcast Heather discusses CPCAB’s minimum assessment requirements and why they might be different to other awarding bodies.

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Podcast
Podcast
#142 - What else does CPCAB do?

In this podcast Ray shares information about CPCAB’s associated project - New Vision for Mental Health. The NVMH website looks at new and interesting things happening in mental healthcare and Ray points to the importance of understanding the wider landscape in which counselling sits.

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Podcast
Podcast
#141 - Standardising Assessment Levels

In this podcast Heather discusses the importance of standardisation training which CPCAB provides to its tutors to ensure that all courses are delivered and assessed at the same standard.

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Podcast
Podcast
#140 - Dual relationships with Tutors

In this podcast Heather discusses how dual relationships with tutors might cause a conflict of interest. This covers commonly asked questions including “Why can’t my tutor be my personal therapist?” and “I want my tutor to be my supervisor” which are two examples of dual relationships which may raise this issue.

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Podcast
Podcast
#139 - Working with long term clients

In this Podcast Ray van der Poel discusses some of the nuances encountered in the counsellor - client relationship when working with clients long term.

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Learner Update
Learner Update
Learner Update - January 2020

A warm welcome back to all of our learners. We hope you have enjoyed the holiday period and possibly had a much-deserved rest! As we write, the news is full of stories of harrowing events around the globe and it’s natural to feel anxious and helpless at times. We hope you are taking comfort from friends and remaining positive in the face of uncertainty. One thing that is certain, though, is that the winter has turned the corner and we are moving back towards the light and the promise of longer days. We send best wishes for a happy and healthy 2020 to you all.

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Podcast
Podcast
#138 - Progression routes in counselling

Having started on a foundation counselling skills course you may now feel that you want to take the training to the next level. This podcast discusses ways to do this and the benefits of following a defined progression route.

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Podcast
Podcast
#137 - Taking a year off between Diploma Years 1 and 2

When embarking on a two-year CPCAB Diploma course it would be expected that you make that commitment for the full two years. However sometimes life gets in the way, this discussion centres around what you can do if you need to take time out.

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Podcast
Podcast
#136 - Student support networks during the course

While studying counselling your peer student network can be an incredible support. There are clear benefits from connecting with those going through the same challenging journey as you, however sometimes when difficult emotions are triggered your peers can bear the brunt of this emotional ‘fallout’.

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Centre Update
Centre Update
Centre Update - January 2020

A warm welcome back to all of our wonderful centre staff. We hope you have enjoyed the holiday period and possibly had a much-deserved rest! As we write, the news is full of stories of harrowing events around the globe and it’s natural to feel anxious and helpless at times. We hope you are taking comfort from friends and remaining positive in the face of uncertainty. One thing that is certain, though, is that the winter has turned the corner and we are moving back towards the light and the promise of longer days. We send best wishes for a happy and healthy 2020 to you all.

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The heart of our work is the hurt in our hearts