Counsellor CV example

This guide will take you through everything you need to write a Counsellor CV, from your training and therapeutic approach to your ability to support clients effectively. By the end, you’ll have a CV that reflects both your qualifications and your passion for helping others.

Think of your CV as a carefully planned therapy session – it needs structure and purpose if it’s going to make an impact. Just as clients appreciate a clear path forward, so do recruiters when they’re navigating your application.

Here’s how to structure your Counsellor CV:

• Name and contact details – Keep these at the top for easy access. Including a photo is optional.
• CV profile – Provide a concise summary of your counselling expertise, therapeutic style, and career highlights.
• Core skills – Highlight your strengths, such as active listening, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and client assessment.
• Work experience – Detail your roles in reverse chronological order, focusing on your contributions and successes.
• Education – Include academic qualifications, professional training, and certifications in counselling or psychology.
• Additional info – Optionally, mention interests, professional memberships, or specific client groups you specialise in

Your CV format should be as supportive as your counselling approach. A messy or unclear layout will leave recruiters feeling lost, but a well-presented CV will guide them to exactly what they need –  just like a great therapist does.

Formatting tips for a Counsellor CV:

• Bullet points – Use these to break down tasks and achievements into digestible details.
• Divide sections – Clear headings make your CV easy to navigate for recruiters.
• Use a clean font – Opt for readability with a professional typeface and consistent formatting.
• Keep it under 2 pages – Focus on your most relevant experience and skills without overwhelming the reader.

Your CV profile is your chance to show you’ve listened to the recruiter’s needs, and that you’ve got the right approach. This short section should convey your ability to provide empathetic support and deliver effective therapeutic interventions, while maintaining professionalism at all times.

Tailor your profile to the job by focusing on your relevant experience, training, and the types of clients or challenges you specialise in.

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Tailor your profile to the job by focusing on your relevant experience, training, and the types of clients or challenges you specialise in.

Here’s the sort of thing to include in your Counsellor CV profile:

• Where you’ve worked – Mention the types of settings you’ve counselled in, such as schools, private practice, or community organisations.
• Your top qualifications – Highlight certifications like BACP accreditation or a degree in Counselling or Psychology.
• Therapeutic approaches – Include modalities like CBT, person-centred therapy, or trauma-focused techniques.
• Client groups you’ve worked with – Reference experience with children, families, or specific populations like veterans or at-risk youth.
• Outcomes and goals – Mention your ability to help clients achieve measurable progress in their mental health or personal development.

The core skills section is your chance to showcase the abilities that make you an effective and compassionate Counsellor. Highlight technical and interpersonal skills that demonstrate your expertise and client focus.

Now for your CV’s main act: your work experience section is where you demonstrate your proven track record in supporting clients and achieving positive outcomes. Focus on roles that have showcased your counselling expertise and adaptability.

List your roles in reverse chronological order. If you’re newer to the field, include internships, volunteering, or academic placements that highlight transferable skills.

• Outline – Provide a brief overview of the organisation, your role, and the client groups you worked with.
• Responsibilities – Highlight tasks like conducting assessments, leading therapy sessions, or liaising with other professionals. Use action verbs like “facilitated,” “developed,” or “implemented.”
• Achievements – Include measurable outcomes, such as improved client satisfaction, reduced wait times, or successful completion of support plans. Numbers and specifics help demonstrate your impact.

The education section is vital for a Counsellor, as it demonstrates your foundational knowledge and specialised training. Include any professional certifications and academic qualifications.

List qualifications in reverse chronological order. For newer candidates, emphasise coursework, research projects, or clinical placements that align with the role you’re applying for.