Counseling courses can help you learn active listening, empathy, conflict resolution, and effective communication techniques. You can build skills in assessing client needs, developing treatment plans, and implementing therapeutic interventions. Many courses introduce tools such as cognitive-behavioral therapy techniques, motivational interviewing strategies, and assessment instruments that enhance your ability to support clients in various settings.

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Triage, Crisis Intervention, Active Listening, Emergency Response, Trauma Care, Psychological Evaluations, Interpersonal Communications, Personal Care, Mental Health, Stress Management, Patient Referral
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Yale University
Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Child Development, Psychiatry, Mental Health, Human Development, Human Learning, Social Sciences, Behavioral Health, Sociology, Neurology, Critical Thinking, Scientific Methods, Problem Solving
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

University of Toronto
Skills you'll gain: Patient Education And Counseling, Patient Evaluation, Interpersonal Communications, Psychotherapy, Mental Health Therapies, Patient Treatment, Treatment Planning, Rapport Building, Interactive Learning, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Case Studies, Mental Health, Clinical Practices
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Goodwill Industries International
Skills you'll gain: Constructive Feedback, Interviewing Skills, Communication, Coaching, Accountability, Client Services, Virtual Teams, Professional Development, Diversity and Inclusion, Client Support, Workforce Development, Recruitment, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Active Listening, Talent Pipelining, Needs Assessment, Employee Onboarding, Empathy, Human Centered Design, Gap Analysis
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Professional Certificate · 3 - 6 Months

MedCerts
Skills you'll gain: Conflict Management, Child Development, Cultural Responsiveness, Human Development, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Patient Education And Counseling, Patient-centered Care, Mental Health Therapies, Professionalism, Professional Development, Pediatrics, Time Management, Mental Health, Emotional Intelligence, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Teamwork, Interpersonal Communications, Conscientiousness, Psychiatric And Mental Health Nursing, Behavioral Health
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

University of Colorado System
Skills you'll gain: Individualized Education Programs (IEP), Special Education, School Psychology, Case Studies, Empathy & Emotional Intelligence, School Counseling, Community Mental Health Services, Student Support and Services, Social and Human Services, Mental Health, Preventative Care, Health Promotion, Behavior Management, Positive Behavior Support, Crisis Intervention
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Stanford University
Skills you'll gain: Pain Management, Patient Communication, Hospice, Psychosocial Assessments, Patient Education And Counseling, Patient-centered Care, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Stress Management, Clinical Assessment, Communication, Pharmacology
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Niel Asher Education
Skills you'll gain: Patient Communication, Injury Prevention, Physical Therapy, Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Human Musculoskeletal System, General Medicine, Family Medicine, Health And Wellness Coaching, Health Care, Pathology, Human Relations Movement
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Niel Asher Education
Skills you'll gain: Manual Therapy, Patient Evaluation, Patient Positioning, Exercise Therapy, Physical Therapy, Clinical Assessment, Neurology, Rehabilitation, Patient Communication, Mindfulness, Patient Treatment, Pain Management, Self-Awareness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exercise Science, Occupational Therapy, Intravenous Therapy, Family Therapy, Mental Health Therapies, Mental Health
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

MedCerts
Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Pharmacy Experience, Medication Dispensation, Pharmacist Assistance, Medical Prescription, Pharmacology, Conflict Management, Pharmacy Operations, Anatomy, Pathology, Pharmacy Information System, Cultural Responsiveness, Patient Safety, Patient Education And Counseling, Patient-centered Care, Pharmacy, Professionalism, Medication Administration, Medical Records, Physiology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Yale University
Skills you'll gain: Health Disparities, Motivational Interviewing, Substance Abuse, Patient-centered Care, Medication Therapy Management, Mental and Behavioral Health, Social Determinants Of Health, Patient Education And Counseling, Psychiatry, Pharmacotherapy, Psychotherapy, Treatment Planning, Health Policy, Care Coordination, Clinical Assessment
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Niel Asher Education
Skills you'll gain: Manual Therapy, Neurology, Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy, Pain Management, Exercise Therapy, Clinical Assessment, Anatomy, Respiration, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Patient Education And Counseling, Physiology, Athletic Training, Stress Management, Mental Health Therapies
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Counseling is a professional practice that involves helping individuals navigate personal, social, and psychological challenges. It is important because it provides support and guidance to those facing difficulties, helping them to develop coping strategies, improve their mental health, and enhance their overall well-being. Counselors play a crucial role in fostering resilience and empowering individuals to make positive changes in their lives.‎
A career in counseling can lead to various job opportunities, including roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, marriage and family therapist, and substance abuse counselor. Each of these positions allows professionals to make a significant impact on individuals and communities by providing essential support and guidance.‎
To succeed in counseling, you need a combination of interpersonal and technical skills. Key skills include active listening, empathy, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Additionally, understanding psychological theories and ethical practices is vital for effective counseling.‎
There are many online options for counseling courses that cater to different interests and skill levels. Some popular choices include introductory courses on counseling techniques, specialized training in areas like family therapy, and programs focusing on mental health awareness. Exploring these options can help you find the right fit for your learning journey.‎
Yes. You can start learning counseling on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in counseling, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning counseling involves a mix of theoretical knowledge and practical experience. You can start by enrolling in online courses, participating in workshops, and seeking internships or volunteer opportunities to gain hands-on experience. Engaging with peers and professionals in the field can also enhance your understanding.‎
Typical topics covered in counseling courses include counseling theories, ethical practices, communication skills, assessment techniques, and specific areas like trauma-informed care or addiction counseling. These subjects provide a comprehensive foundation for aspiring counselors.‎
For training and upskilling employees in counseling, courses that focus on communication skills, mental health awareness, and conflict resolution are particularly beneficial. These courses can equip employees with the tools to support their colleagues and foster a healthier work environment.‎