Honorary counselling placements

Honorary counselling placements are unpaid, supervised training positions with NHS services, charities, universities and community organisations. They can help trainee counsellors build required client hours while working with real clients under clinical supervision.

How honorary placements work

Within the NHS, an honorary contract gives a trainee or volunteer the governance status needed to work with NHS clients without becoming a paid employee. Requirements commonly include proof of training, student indemnity insurance, an enhanced DBS check, references and occupational health clearance.

How to apply

1. Check your course requirements and the client hours you need.
2. Contact local NHS Talking Therapies services, charities and counselling centres directly.
3. Prepare your placement letter, DBS, insurance and references before applying.

Browse placement providers · Read the NHS placements guide · Use application email templates