England’s counsellor training service provider is accepting applications for its counselling skills course and diploma in therapeutic counselling, continuing a counselling education programme dating back to 1986.
Southend-on-Sea, England, August 24, 2026 — Victoria Counselling & Training Service (VCTS), an established Southend-on-Sea provider of counselling and psychotherapy training, is accepting applications for its Counselling Skills Course and Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling, offering structured study for learners developing counselling skills or progressing toward professional therapeutic practice.
The course combines weekly in-person classes, private study and written assignments. Students develop practical and theoretical understanding of active listening, communication, ethical practice, self-awareness, emotional responses and counselling theories. Skills practice is central to the sessions, with learners working in small groups and receiving feedback from tutors and peers.
The course is designed for people new to counselling as well as those with previous training who want to refresh or extend their knowledge. It can support people working in health, education and support services while also preparing them for further counselling training.
Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling Course
This diploma course builds on existing counselling skills and covers counselling theory, cognitive behavioural therapeutic skills, psychotherapeutic counselling, and counselling within a diverse society. Students complete written assignments, skills practice, external assessment and regular clinical supervision. A supervised counselling placement gives learners experience working with clients in an approved agency setting.
The diploma has accredited training recognition from the National Counselling and Psychotherapy Society and, subject to the provider’s terms and conditions, provides a route onto a national register of counsellors accredited by the Professional Standards Authority.
“Good counselling training is not simply about learning theories. It is about understanding relationships, developing self-awareness and learning how to use skills appropriately,” said Pauline Shepherd, co-founder of Victoria Counselling & Training Service.
Pauline has been involved with the service since joining founding professional David Shepherd in 1993. Both are Chartered Counselling Psychologists and have counselled clients, provided clinical supervision and delivered counselling courses to thousands of students.
Ky Harkins, a VCTS teacher who has been with the school for five years and was trained through the same programme, brings first-hand experience of the school’s approach to counselling education. “Training here gave me a strong understanding of the approach we continue to use with students today,” said Harkins. “Being able to return as a teacher has allowed me to build on that experience while supporting learners through their own training.”
VCTS currently has seven classes, including first- and second-year Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling classes, Practitioner Diploma in CBT classes and a Certificate in Counselling Skills class. The service has maintained professional relationships with organisations including Mind, women’s refuge projects, carer support projects and local schools.
Applications are open for upcoming courses. Prospective students can visit www.victoriacounsellingandtraining.co.uk to learn about the programmes, tutors and application process, or call +44 7746 055816 for further information.
About Victoria Counselling & Training Service (VCTS):
Victoria Counselling & Training Service was established in 1986 by founding professional David Shepherd and provides counselling and psychotherapy training from Southend-on-Sea. Its programmes have been developed around established professional expectations and client needs, with CBT and Transactional Analysis (TA) forming prominent elements of its training approach. Since 2015, the service has delivered courses under its own name, tailoring them to counselling employers’ requirements and clients’ needs.
Media Contact:
Organisation: Victoria Counselling & Training Service
Contact Person: Pauline Shepherd
Phone Number: +44 7746 055816
Email: [email protected]
Address: Admirals House, 18 Nelson Street, Southend-on-Sea, SS1 1EF