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Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Courses

Drug and Alcohol Counsellors are qualified professionals who support people with substance addictions and dependency problems. They help clients (and their families) navigate the recovery process which may include forced interventions and rehabilitation work.

As a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor you could be talking to an unknown caller on a DA emergency helpline, meeting with concerned family members to discuss the steps in an intervention, leading a group therapy session for addicts, listening to a client as they provide an update on their weekly progress in rehab, writing up a mental health assessment on a new client, talking to your supervisor about a client you suspect is at risk of relapse, or co-ordinating a community outreach program for addiction awareness.

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Popular Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Courses

There are 7 courses available for people who want to become a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor. These are the top 5 most popular courses.

CHC43215
Online, On Campus
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CHC53215
Online, On Campus
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CHC43215 & CHC43315
Online
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CHC43215 & CHC42021
Online
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COURSE DETAILS
Online, On Campus
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Drug and Alcohol Counsellors earn?

The average salary for a counsellors in Australia is currently $1,652 per week ($85,904 annually). Increase your earning capabilities by obtaining a Bachelor of Counselling or Master of Counselling and joining one of the peak industry counselling bodies: Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).

What are the job opportunities for Drug and Alcohol Counsellors?

There are approximately 35,000 counsellors working in Australia right now, some of these are Drug and Alcohol Counsellors. DA Counsellors are employed by healthcare outlets, non-profits, correctional services facilities, and community service organisations.

How do I become a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor?

Launch your career as a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with a VET Diploma of Counselling that is recognised by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). You will also benefit from a Certificate IV or Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs.

For a government position or leadership role, consider the Bachelor of Counselling, Master of Counselling, or Bachelor of Psychological Science (Counselling and Community Services).

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

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Job Pathways

Here are some potential career pathways within alcohol and other drugs and counselling. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.