Training for Counsellors launch new online course to support ethical private practice

Training for Counsellors have announced their new online course, A Counsellor’s Guide to Building an Ethical Private Practice.

Designed by owner Samantha Crapnell, the course supports both qualified counsellors and counsellors in training with practical tools and professional insight, to help them take the step into private practice with confidence and integrity.

Making the move into private practice often raises questions among practitioners about ethics, business planning and sustainability. Recognising this, the course is a comprehensive resource that guides practitioners through each stage of the journey.

Samantha says: " When I first set up my own private practice, I felt excited but also completely overwhelmed. There were so many practical decisions to make, so many questions about ethics, finances, and how to manage it all on my own. I wished I’d have had a clear guide to help me navigate the process with confidence."

The course begins by encouraging participants to explore personal motivations for going into private practice, whether for flexibility, income, autonomy or the chance to specialise. It then introduces the realities of self-employment, drawing on European Competences for Entrepreneurs and applying them to the reality of working alone as a private practitioner.

Business planning is also explored, with the course breaking the process down into manageable steps. Legal and ethical considerations are covered, including charging, invoicing, lone working and professional wills. The course also provides signposts for specialist advice, alongside templates and documents that can be tailored to each practitioner’s needs.

Marketing, often an area of uncertainty for counsellors, is presented as a reflective process rather than a promotional exercise. The course encourages participants to consider what will work for them and their clients.

Ethical practice and professional integrity are central themes, with modules addressing dilemmas that can arise when working without the support of an organisation. Topics such as contracts, case notes and developing internal supervision are explored in depth.

The course addresses sustainability, emphasising the importance of balancing professional demands with self-care to ensure long-term fulfilment.

Although delivered online, the programme is designed to be experiential. Learners can work through modules at their own pace and revisit the content whenever needed.

Sam added: "Over the years so many people ask me, ‘What is it really like to work in private practice?’. And I’ve always wanted to give them one resource that brings together the practical, ethical, and personal guidance they need. This course is my answer to that. It’s about giving counsellors clarity, confidence, and practical tools that genuinely help them build a practice that suits them."

Training for Counsellors are encouraging anyone who is considering, starting, or developing their own private practice to sign up to this course.