Course Overview

Build the Practice You’ve Dreamed of

This qualification is designed to provide learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to work as self-employed counsellors in independent practice. It also prepares learners to step into senior counselling roles within organisational settings, where responsibilities may include client assessment, referral, and routine evaluation. Successful candidates will be well-equipped for a range of job and career opportunities, including but not limited to: Working autonomously in private practice or agency settings Taking on a senior counsellor position within a counselling agency Progressing into teaching counselling within an FE or HE context (with suitable teaching qualifications or experience) Course Facilitator The course will be delivered by Shirley Marais, a qualified CPCAB tutor with many years of experience delivering high-quality counselling training. Through her extensive work supporting learners on their journey towards the Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, Shirley recognised a common challenge: many newly qualified and even experienced counsellors felt uncertain about how to take their next professional step. Whether transitioning into private practice or agency work, the amount of information available can be overwhelming and often lacks practical, real-world application. In response, Shirley developed this course to bridge that gap. Designed specifically for both qualified and newly qualified counsellors, student counsellors, and coaches, it offers clear, practical guidance on the do’s and don’ts of establishing a private practice or stepping into a senior counselling role. Why This Course Matters Even when moving into agency work, practitioners are still expected to manage their own tax, admin, and business logistics. This course is ideal for anyone who wants the confidence, clarity, and structure to do this well from the start — without having to piece it all together from scattered sources. To support your learning beyond the training itself, you’ll also gain access to a private Facebook group. This will serve as a supportive space to ask questions, share experiences, and stay connected with others on a similar path as you transition into self-employment or advanced agency roles. Delivery Format The course runs over three days, with the option to attend online via Zoom or in person. We recognise that not everything can be covered in live sessions alone, so your learning will also be supported by PowerPoint presentations, handouts, and suggested reading materials for further exploration in your own time.

WHAT YOU WILL LEARN ON THIS COURSE

3 Day Course Structure

Niche, structure, legal setup, Money mindset, fees, business basics. Setting up your space and boundaries. Client onboarding and first session essentials. Ethical Marketing and Tools for Success, Marketing without the ‘ick’, Building trust through online presence, Practical tech tools to stay organised, What you do (and don’t) need on your website. Assessment strategies and modality fit, Self-awareness, use of self, and power dynamics, Integrating research and supervision, Maintaining professional effectiveness

Face to Face Training

Sunday 14th, 21st & 28th September 2025

The face to face training will be in the St Neots area venue to be confirmed. Training will commence at 10am and finish at 4pm. Over the 3 consqutive Sundays.

Course Curriculum

    1. Building Your Base and Finding Your First Clients

    1. Promoting Yourself Authentically and Staying Organised

    1. Self-Awareness, Assessment & Supervision in Practice

About this course

  • £200.00

Course Tutor

SHIRLEY MARAIS

Shirley Marais

Seasoned CPCAB Tutor

Shirley is a passionate educator and seasoned CPCAB tutor, dedicated to shaping the next generation of counsellors through her work at Aloe Counselling Training Centre for Counselling Studies. She teaches accredited courses at Levels 2, 3, and 4, ensuring aspiring professionals gain the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Shirley is deeply committed to providing a rich, comprehensive education that fosters growth and confidence in emerging therapists. Beyond her formal teaching, Shirley is passionate about designing and delivering CPD courses that equip and support counsellors and coaches in practice. She develops engaging and practical learning experiences, empowering professionals to continually refine their skills, expand their therapeutic approaches, and stay at the forefront of the evolving field. In addition to her work in education, Shirley is a dedicated psychotherapist, clinical supervisor, and lecturer, specialising in relationship therapy. She integrates Person-Centred theory as her foundation while incorporating various therapeutic modalities, including Psychodynamic, Transactional Analysis (TA), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Emotion-Focused Therapy, to provide tailored care for individuals and couples. As a Registered Member of both the NCPS and BACP, Shirley upholds the highest standards in her practice. She runs her own private practice, offering a safe and compassionate space for clients to explore and overcome life’s challenges. Combining expertise with empathy, she supports people in navigating their unique personal journeys while empowering future and current therapists to do the same.