COSCA Certificate in Counselling Skills Online, Evening & In-Person Study Routes Available in Scotland

Deepening practice within a structure of beginnings, middles and endings. Focus on change processes, boundaries, motivation and ethical practice

Course Overview

Module 1 – Beginnings: Advanced Communication Skills

Introduction to counselling approaches, attending and responding skills, ethical foundations and self-awareness development

Module 2 – Exploration and Expansion

Deepening practice within a structure of beginnings, middles and endings. Focus on change processes, boundaries, motivation and ethical practice

Module 3 – Review and Reflection

Introduction to core theoretical perspectives including Humanistic, Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioural, Integrative and Pluralistic approaches. Emphasis on reflective practice and professional self-awareness

Module 4 – Integration

Integration of skills, ethical responsibility, supervision awareness, stress management, inclusion and professional development. Culminates in assessed integrated practice

How You Will Learn

Assessment throughout the course is primarily formative (ongoing) rather than exam-based, supporting personal growth and skills development

Assessment methods include:

• Observed skills practice

• Written reflections

• Oral discussion

• Video-recorded integrated practice

Students are supported continuously to develop competence and reflective awareness.

What This Qualification Gives You

On successful completion, you will:

• Hold a COSCA certificated qualification at SCQF Level 8 (40 credits)

• Demonstrate competence in structured counselling skills practice

• Understand ethical frameworks and professional boundaries

• Develop enhanced communication skills for workplace settings

• Be well-prepared for further counselling training

The COSCA Certificate provides an excellent foundation for progression to Diploma-level training in counselling or CBT

We understand that many students are balancing work, family, and personal commitments. That’s why we offer several flexible learning pathways. All routes lead to the same COSCA qualification.

Accelerated Route (Online)
Starts: 19th August 2026
Two evenings per week + two Sundays per module

Full-Day In Person (Glasgow)
Starts: 21st August 2026
9:30am – 4:30pm

Online Evening
Starts: 21st September 2026
Mondays | 6:00pm – 9:00pm

Online Morning
Starts: 25th September 2026
Fridays | 9:30am – 12:30pm

Full-Day Online
Starts: 1st February 2027
9:30am – 4:30pm

Course Updates & Availability

We regularly update our website with new course dates and study routes throughout the year.

If the current options do not suit your availability, please continue to check back for future intakes and newly released courses.

You are also welcome to contact our team for information on upcoming programmes and alternative options. We are always happy to help you find a route that fits your life.

Course Enrolment

All courses are subject to minimum enrolment numbers.

Each course requires a minimum of 9 students to be delivered.

If minimum numbers are not met, we will contact you as soon as possible to discuss alternative start dates, study routes, or available options.

Our aim is always to support you in continuing your training.

If you have already completed part of the COSCA Certificate, we can support you to finish your qualification.

We regularly offer Modules 2, 3, and 4.

Please contact us to discuss current availability.

This course is suitable for:

• Beginners with no previous counselling qualifications
• Professionals working in health, education, or support roles
• Volunteers and charity workers
• Individuals exploring a career change
• Anyone interested in personal development

No formal academic qualifications are required.

This qualification is recognised by counselling training organisations across Scotland.

Depending on individual provider entry criteria, it may provide progression to:

• Diploma-level counselling training

• Postgraduate study

• Professional registration routes

• CPD and supervision pathways

At GCTC, it is the benchmark qualification for progression to our Postgraduate Diploma in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (PgDipCBT).

We also support students with placements, guidance, and career planning.

At GCTC, you are supported as a whole person — not just as a learner.

Our learning spaces are:

• Safe and respectful
• Inclusive and welcoming 
• Non-judgemental
• Ethically grounded
• Reflective and supportive
• We value diversity, lived experience, and different learning styles.

You will benefit from our :

• Personal guidance from experienced trainers
• Academic and skills development support
• Emotional and wellbeing awareness
• Regular feedback and encouragement
• Access to student-rate therapy 
• Flexible learning routes
• High-quality ethical training
• Personalised student support
• Inclusive learning environment
• Clear progression pathways
• Ongoing professional guidance

From first enquiry to professional practice — we’re with you every step of the way.

Counselling training is a personal journey. We walk alongside you throughout.