Counsellor Courses
Counsellors assist clients in addressing personal issues like relationships, mental health, and addictions using recognised therapeutic techniques.
AI Exposure
High

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
View all courses
How do I become a Counsellor
Get qualified to work as a Counsellor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CHC51015
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
The Diploma of Counselling is suitable for students seeking careers as counsellors working with clients on personal and psychological issues using established counselling modalities. Students graduate ready to work in supported counselling roles in established agencies rather than in independent practice. Students will learn about communication, micro-counselling and interviewing skills and how to draw on varied counselling therapies to assist clients.
Career opportunities
Duration
3 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online, RPL, Traineeship
Find a provider
11271NAT
The 11271NAT Diploma in Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy provides comprehensive training in advanced therapeutic techniques. This course emphasises research-supported skills and knowledge, particularly in the realms of non-script Neo-Ericksonian hypnosis and contemporary strategic psychotherapy methods. Designed for those seeking proficiency in these specialised areas, the diploma covers a range of relevant topics, ensuring a deep understanding of both theoretical concepts and practical appli...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health equips health and social care professionals with specialist skills for effective mental health care and team leadership. It focuses on developing a comprehensive understanding of trauma-informed and recovery-focused care. Graduates will possess industry-recognised leadership capabilities, preparing them for successful careers in mental health, a national health priority area in Australia. This course is ideal for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise an...
Career opportunities
Duration
6 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Find a provider
Estimated fee
From $48,200
The Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy offers comprehensive insight into key counselling theories, grief, attachment theory, trauma, and ethical practice. It prepares students for a fulfilling career in counselling, focusing on holistic methods to address clients' emotional, mental, and relational challenges. This course nurtures personal growth and equips students to positively impact others' lives. It fosters the growth of ethically conscious, research-informed, and clinically competent cou...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $48,200
Find a provider
View all
Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Counsellor.
Common questions

How much do Counsellors earn?
In Australia, a full time Counsellor generally earns $1,635 per week ($85,020 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only. As you gain more experience you can expect a higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for Counsellors?
Opportunities for counsellors are expected to grow strongly over the next 5 years as more than 22,000 jobs for counsellors open up around the country. Counsellors often have their private practice, but are mostly employed by government departments, and community service organisations.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Counsellor?
To get started as a Counsellor you will need a Diploma of Counselling and demonstrated field experience. The Diploma of Counselling will take 12 months to complete and requires a work placement. If you are working with children or anyone under 18 you may also require a national police check and working with children clearance.
Choose a field of study

If you're passionate about creating real change then a community services course is your next big step forward. Browse accredited courses and check your funding eligibility online.
All courses

Begin a rewarding career in Aboriginal health care, improving the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Career opportunities
View all

Nurture your caring side with a career in Aged Care. Career pathways include Personal Carers, Aged Care Workers and Diversional Therapists. Check your eligibility for government funding. Start your career in Aged Care today.
Career opportunities
View all
All courses
More information
Counsellors help their clients work through a range of personal problems including issues relating to relationships, home finances, work, parenting, mental health, anxiety, trauma, sexual identity, and addictions. As a counsellor you’ll use internationally recognised therapies that allow clients to identify their own problem areas and emotional blockages.
Counselling can be a very rewarding career, but to be successful you’ll need self-confidence plus highly advanced interpersonal and deep listening skills. What’s great about this career path is being able to specialise in areas where you have life experience: aged care, veteran services, drug and alcohol, LGBT, gambling.
Courses by location