Special Edition: CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling

In this special edition of the Counselling Tutor Podcast, Rory Lees-Oakes is joined by Dr. Liz Nicholl, Qualifications Development Manager at CPCAB, for an in-depth discussion on the newly relaunched Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling. They explore how the qualification aligns with the SCoPEd framework (specifically Column B), what it offers learners beyond Level 4, and how it supports safe, ethical, and inclusive practice in increasingly complex counselling environments. Key Takeaways: The Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling has been revised to meet SCoPEd Column B competencies, ensuring alignment with professional accreditation routes such as BACP and NCPS. The course supports a smooth transition from Level 4 to independent or senior agency practice, with a strong emphasis on ethical decision-making and professional accountability. Key learning outcomes include skills in managing complexity, recognising risk (e.g. suicide, self-harm), and developing policies and contracts for private practice. Cultural humility and awareness of social, cultural, and biological diversity are embedded through critically reflective assessment tasks and resources like the RACE Toolkit and the Churchill Framework. Outcome measures such as CORE-10 and PHQ-9 are introduced as relational tools for client assessment, with practical classroom training on how to use them ethically and effectively across modalities. Research literacy is a central theme, with learners encouraged to critically engage with peer-reviewed articles, integrate findings into practice, and consider conducting their own research to inform future client work. If you’d like to find out more about the CPCAB Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (PC-L5), here are a few helpful links to explore: Level 5 Diploma in Psychotherapeutic Counselling (PC-L5) - CPCAB Download PC-L5 mapped to SCoPEd Column B - CPCAB Download PC-L5 Specification - CPCAB Download PC-L5 Tutor Guide - CPCAB Links and Resources Counselling Skills Academy Advanced Certificate in Counselling Supervision Basic Counselling Skills: A Student Guide Counsellor CPD Counselling Study Resource Counselling Theory in Practice: A Student Guide Counselling Tutor Training and CPD Facebook group Website Online and Telephone Counselling: A Practitioner’s Guide Online and Telephone Counselling Course