If you’re interested in helping people navigate their relationships and build stronger connections, becoming a relationship therapist could be a rewarding career choice. This guide outlines the various pathways to qualification in the UK and what you need to know to get started.
Training Pathways to Becoming a Relationship Therapist
There are several routes to becoming a qualified relationship therapist in the UK. Each pathway has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on your current circumstances, previous qualifications, and career goals.
All pathways can lead to accreditation with the College of Sexual and Relationship Therapy (COSRT), the UK’s leading professional body for relationship therapists.
- Past experiences that might contribute to your anxiety
- Current life situations that trigger anxious feelings
- Thought patterns that maintain anxiety
- Physical responses that accompany your anxiety
Unlike conversations with friends or family, counselling offers an unbiased, non-judgmental space where individuals can be completely honest about their struggles.
The Traditional Route
Initial Training (1-2 years)
- Complete a Level 2 Certificate in Counselling Skills
- Progress to Level 3 Certificate in Counselling Studies
These provide foundational knowledge and basic counselling skills
Core Professional Training (2-3 years)
- Level 4 Diploma in Therapeutic Counselling
- This is the minimum level required for professional practice
- Must include at least 100 hours of supervised client work
Specialisation in Relationship Therapy
- Additional qualifications in relationship counselling
- Specific training through organisations like Relate or Tavistock Relationships – COSRT-accredited Level 7 qualification in relationship therapy
- Usually involves further supervised practice hours – Leads to specialist accreditation with COSRT
The Academic Route
Undergraduate Degree (3-4 years)
- Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counselling, or related field
- Provides theoretical foundation and research skills
- Accredited by British Psychological Society (BPS) if relevant
Postgraduate Training (2-3 years)
- Master’s degree in Relationship Therapy or Couple Counselling
- Often includes practical training and supervised placement
- Can lead to higher-level professional recognition
Essential Requirements
Regardless of your chosen path, you’ll need:
Professional Body Membership
- Registration with BACP (British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy)
- Or membership with UKCP (UK Council for Psychotherapy) – COSRT membership and accreditation for specialist relationship work
- Professional insurance coverage
Supervised Practice
- Minimum required client hours (varies by qualification)
- Regular supervision from qualified supervisors
- Ongoing professional development
Personal Therapy
- Most training programmes require personal therapy
- Helps develop self-awareness and understanding
- Usually 40+ hours minimum during training
Skills and Qualities Needed
Personal Attributes:
- Excellent communication skills
- Empathy and emotional intelligence
- Ability to maintain professional boundaries
- Strong ethical awareness
- Resilience and self-care capacity
Professional Skills:
- Active listening
- Conflict resolution
- Assessment and evaluation abilities
- Record-keeping and documentation
- Professional boundary setting
Practical Steps to Get Started
Research and Planning
- Investigate different training providers – Research COSRT-accredited training programmes
- Consider your time and financial commitments
- Look into funding options and course costs
- Speak with practicing relationship therapists
Initial Experience
- Volunteer for listening services
- Work in supporting roles in mental health
- Gain experience in relationship-focused settings
Choose Your Training Path
- Consider your existing qualifications
- Evaluate time and financial resources
- Research accredited courses
- Plan for long-term career goals
Career Progression
Once Qualified:
- Work for established organisations like Relate
- Join private practices
- Set up independent practice
- Specialise in specific relationship issues
Further Development:
- Additional specialisations (e.g., sex therapy, family therapy) – COSRT accreditation and specialist recognition
- Supervision qualifications
- Training and teaching roles
- Research opportunities
Financial Considerations
Training Costs:
- Level 2 Certificate: £800-£1,200
- Level 3 Certificate: £1,200-£1,800
- Level 4 Diploma: £2,500-£4,000 per year
- University degrees: £9,250 per year (undergraduate)
- Masters programmes: £9,000-£15,000
Additional Costs:
- Personal therapy (£40-£60 per session)
- Supervision (£50-£80 per session)
- Professional membership fees
- Insurance coverage
- Continuing professional development
Working as a Relationship Therapist
Employment Options:
- NHS services
- Charitable organisations
- Private therapy centres
- Independent practice
- Online therapy platforms
Typical Earnings:
- Newly qualified: £25,000-£30,000
- Experienced therapists: £35,000-£45,000
- COSRT-accredited specialists: £45,000-£60,000+
- Private practice: £40-£80 per session
- Senior roles/specialists: £45,000-£60,000+
Next Steps
If you’re interested in becoming a relationship therapist:
- Attend open days at training providers
- Join professional body student memberships
- Research COSRT accreditation requirements
- Connect with practicing therapists
- Research funding options
- Consider voluntary work to gain experience
Remember that becoming a relationship therapist is a significant commitment, but it can be an incredibly rewarding career. The journey requires dedication, self-reflection, and ongoing professional development, but offers the opportunity to make a real difference in people’s lives.
For more information about training options and professional requirements, visit the COSRT website, BACP website, or contact local training providers to discuss your specific circumstances and goals.
