Published 2026-05-12 • Category: Placement Guide • Author: CounsellingPlacements.co.uk
Finding a counselling placement is one of the most important stages of counsellor training in the UK. BACP-accredited diplomas require a supervised placement of at least 100 client hours. CPCAB Level 4 Diploma learners must complete a minimum of 100 hours of formally contracted one-to-one counselling with at least five different clients within an agency setting.
Types of counselling placements: community counselling services, bereavement support services, domestic abuse services, university counselling services, NHS-related services, and online counselling placements.
Where to find placements: specialist placement directories (like CounsellingPlacements.co.uk), training centres and colleges, charity websites, professional events and networks, and direct approaches to local organisations.
Common requirements: evidence of counselling training, tutor support or approval, professional membership, professional indemnity insurance, clinical supervision arrangements, safeguarding training, references, and enhanced DBS checks where appropriate.
What placement providers look for: self-awareness, reflective ability, professional communication, reliability, understanding of confidentiality, ethical awareness, willingness to learn, and openness to supervision.
Starting early — ideally 3–6 months before you need to begin client hours — significantly improves your chances of securing the right placement.