I want to become a counsellor

[LISAHA]

I am starting college part time in September, I would like some advice on where I can work voluntary to give me experience while I study.

[Jenny]

Hi Lisa and welcome to the forum :)

Good to hear you're going to college in September.. are you doing the Level 1 Certificate in Counselling Skills or something different? I am only asking because I guess it depends on what level study you are at.. I think to do some proper counselling placements you would need to be at at least Level 3..

However I'm sure there are things out there that you could do to gain experience in listening and supporting, for example the Samaritans? Although hours done with the Samaritans often doesn't count as counselling hours for courses.. it may be worth asking your course tutor in September.

Either that or even volunteering to do admin or similar in a counselling/mental health environment. Although you may not be doing the actual counselling you could get a feel for it, work with people and network.

There may be mentoring opportunities too.. have you tried looking on the Do-It volunteer website and seeing what is available in your area?

http://www.do-it.org.uk/

Good luck :)
Jenny x

[carlos64]

I am starting college part time in September, I would like some advice on where I can work voluntary to give me experience while I study.

Hi
Jenny is right mentoring can give you good experience and is an excellent confidence builder.
Samaritans are great for listening experience and the training is second to none
as is their support for their voulenteers.

good luck on your journey!