Accredited Counselling Courses in Ireland Online: Choosing a Certificate
Written by the ICPS College Academic Team · Reviewed by ICPS College faculty · Last reviewed: September 2026
Many people come to counselling training from careers in education, healthcare, social care, ministry, business or community work, or simply from a wish to understand people more deeply. A certificate in counselling and psychotherapy is often the first step. With so many online options available in Ireland, it helps to know what to look for.
What does accredited mean?
Accreditation can mean different things, so it is worth asking exactly who accredits a course and for what purpose. Some accreditations confirm that a course meets continuing professional development (CPD) standards. Others relate to professional membership, and some courses are placed on the National Framework of Qualifications. Reputable providers state clearly what their accreditation covers and what it does not.
It is also important to distinguish a foundation certificate from a full professional training. Statutory regulation of counsellors and psychotherapists by CORU is being introduced in Ireland, and anyone planning a career as a practitioner should check CORU's current requirements and those of the professional bodies they intend to join.
What a good counselling certificate should include
Core theory: the main approaches, including person-centred, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioural and integrative perspectives.
Counselling skills: active listening, empathy, reflection, open questions, summarising and appropriate challenge.
Ethics and boundaries: confidentiality and its limits, consent, contracting and professional conduct.
Self-awareness: reflective practice and understanding how personal history shapes the helping relationship.
Safeguarding and risk awareness.
Structured assessment with clear criteria and feedback.
Why live-online teaching matters
Counselling is learned in relationship. Live, lecturer-led online classes allow learners to ask questions, discuss case material, practise skills in breakout groups and receive feedback in real time, while studying from anywhere in Ireland or abroad. When comparing online counselling courses, check whether teaching is live or pre-recorded, what attendance is expected and how skills are assessed.
Questions to ask before enrolling
Who accredits the course, and what exactly does that accreditation recognise?
How many CPD credits does it carry, and what is the expected workload?
Is teaching live, and what are the attendance requirements?
How are skills practised and assessed?
What progression routes are available after completion?
Further training
The Accredited Certificate in Counselling & Psychotherapy is a live-online, lecturer-led programme carrying 200 CPD credits. It introduces the core theories, skills and ethics of counselling and psychotherapy and provides a foundation for further specialist study. Current fees, dates and accreditation details are set out on the course page.
Frequently asked questions
What is a professional diploma?
At ICPS College, a professional diploma is a live-online, lecturer-led continuing professional development (CPD) programme focused on a specialist area of counselling and psychotherapy practice. Learners should check how any award fits the requirements of the professional body they plan to join.
Is the Accredited Certificate in Counselling & Psychotherapy delivered online?
Yes. It is taught live online with lecturer-led classes and carries 200 CPD credits. Current dates, fees and accreditation details are shown on the course page.
Does a counselling certificate qualify me to practise as a counsellor?
A certificate provides a foundation in theory, skills and ethics. Practising as a counsellor or psychotherapist generally requires further professional training, supervised practice and, as statutory regulation is introduced by CORU, meeting the relevant registration requirements.
Related ICPS College courses
References
McLeod, J. (2019) An Introduction to Counselling and Psychotherapy: Theory, Research and Practice. 6th edn. London: Open University Press.
Important information
This article is educational content for practitioners and learners. It is not a substitute for professional advice, counselling or therapy.
If you are struggling or in distress in Ireland, you can call Samaritans free on 116 123 or text HELLO to 50808 at any time. In an emergency, call 112 or 999.
Comments