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The New Futures Project runs professional training courses which are externally validated and accredited by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body, (CPCAB).
We welcomed our first students in November 2023 – an achievement which was 'the culmination of a dream’ for our director, Della Kagure Brown.
We had been planning for several years to take this step, not least to generate income for the project and to help train therapists – some of whom may well end up supporting our existing clients.
A few weeks ago, we asked our current students to write about their experiences of the course, what brought them here and where they think the qualification could take them.
In response, Rose, who is one of our CAPD level three counselling skills students, wrote this piece for us. We began by asking her why she signed up in the first place.
I’ve found counselling to be really beneficial as a client, and I liked the idea of using my experience to help others' she said.
Also, I was feeling stuck in a bit of a rut, I wanted to challenge myself and learn some new skills.
So, why choose to to study with the New Futures Project?
Several reasons. The location was good, and the course is properly accredited.
I like the ethos of the organisation, and when I looked into the course it seemed like a good fit for me.
What swayed it for me was the interview. When I spoke to one of the tutors, I got a sense that this was a warm, supportive learning environment - and I was right.
I’ve really enjoyed the course so far. It’s been challenging in places, but in a good way. I really like our tutor and the learning environment.
We can ask questions, share opinions, and show up authentically. If I don’t understand something I’m not made to feel stupid. Instead our tutor is patient and takes the time to explain.
READ MORE: We're offering a fast-track CPCAB-approved counselling skills course for students in a hurry
I also appreciate that our tutor is flexible, and will adapt the lessons depending on what the class needs on that day.
There’s lots of space for connection, communication and conversation - which I value immensely.
It’s a comfortable space to learn in, and we can show up as we are, which makes it easier to stay motivated whatever else is going on in life.
And, the workload?
So far, so good. For me, it’s pretty manageable, and I would feel comfortable asking for help if I was struggling.
We also asked Rose whether she thinks the training is accessible for a broad range of people and abilities.
I think so. I have a hearing impairment, and I was worried it might be a barrier, but it hasn’t been so far.
During my interview I spoke about it, and the response was supportive and encouraging. My tutor doesn’t mind repeating things for me either.
There’s a diverse range of people on the course and from what I can see, our needs are respected and accommodated.
I really like our group. They’re a diverse bunch who are all kind, supportive, and respectful.
READ MORE: ‘They taught me about strength and perseverance’ – social work student Taylor on the people he met at New Futures
Lessons can be challenging and can touch on some difficult subjects. How does she feel at the end of a class?
I usually feel inspired, even if I’m physically a bit tired. I always learn a lot, and I feel enthusiastic, encouraged and engaged.
I don’t think I’ve ever finished a lesson feeling worse than when I started, I usually feel a lot better.
A lot of people who study counselling say the training benefits both their personal and professional lives. Has she felt that too?
Absolutely. I’m finding it easier to set and maintain boundaries, and I’m learning a lot about myself and other people.
My self-awareness has definitely increased. I am better able to identify unhelpful patterns and make positive changes. It’s also been an opportunity to build resilience and self-compassion.
Part of the course involves giving and receiving feedback, which can be uncomfortable. But because it’s a safe, supportive space, this is getting easier, and I can make mistakes without feeling like a total failure.
Even if I don’t qualify, I won’t regret doing this course, because I’ve learned so much. The skills you gain in counselling studies can be helpful in so many areas of your life, personal, professional, social... you name it.
It's a great way to improve your relationships with others, and yourself.
I’d recommend New Futures, as it’s a supportive learning environment with tutors who really know what they’re talking about.
There is a high quality of teaching, and it’s personalised, practical, and purposeful. They’re not afraid to dig a little deeper, so you can get a true understanding of what it means to be a counsellor.
For more information about our counselling courses and the services we offer, call us on 0116 251 0803 or send a message to training@new-futures.org.uk
Our professional training courses are externally validated and accredited by the Counselling and Psychotherapy Central Awarding Body, (CPCAB)
We also offer counselling by qualified counsellors and those in training, working closely with both the CPCAB and the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy, (BACP), to ensure all counselling we provide is ethical and fit for purpose.
The starting dates for our courses this year are:
Level 2 Fast-track – Saturday, April 26
Level 2 – Tuesday, September 8
Level 3 – Monday, September 7
Level 4 – Wednesday, September 9
Level 5 Integrative – Thursday, September 10
Level 5 Counselling Children and Young People – Monday, September 14
The New Futures Project offers a comprehensive welfare and counselling service for women and young people dealing with sexual abuse or exploitation, domestic violence, trafficking, poverty and debt, substance use or mental ill-health.
Call us on 0116 251 0803 or send us a message at: info@new-futures.org.uk
You can find us at 71 London Road, Leicester, LE2 0PE.
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