Most placement providers will ask you to have professional indemnity insurance and, depending on the client group, an enhanced DBS check before you begin seeing clients. Here is where to find both.
Professional indemnity insurance for student counsellors
Annual student premiums are typically £30–£80. The following providers offer cover suitable for trainee counsellors:
Holistic Insurance Services — Specialist in counselling and psychotherapy student cover. Recognised by BACP, UKCP, NCPS and other major awarding bodies.
Howden (formerly Towergate) — Long-standing provider of counsellor professional indemnity cover. Student rates available.
Balens — Holistic and complementary practitioner specialist; widely used by therapists in training.
Oxygen Insurance — Bespoke quotes for counsellors and psychotherapists at all stages of training.
DBS checks for counselling placements
An Enhanced DBS check is required for any placement involving children, young people, or vulnerable adults. You can apply via:
Your placement provider — if they are DBS-registered, they can submit your application directly.
uCheck — Online umbrella body offering Enhanced DBS for individuals. Widely used by therapists in private practice.
Personnel Checks — Another reputable umbrella body for individuals needing an Enhanced DBS check.
DBS Update Service (GOV.UK) — £16 per year. Keeps your certificate live and portable between placements. Subscribe as soon as you receive your certificate.