Postcode:
Resident:
Employed:
Mental Health Counsellors are qualified health professionals who provide counselling and psychotherapy (talk-therapy) services to their clients. They provide either face-to-face counselling in a private office or clinic, or telecounselling services via video conference, telephone, or internet media.
As a Mental Health Counsellor you could be having an initial session with a new client who needs help with anger management, using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) to help a client navigate a divorce, referring a client with drug and alcohol addictions to a specialist, having a review session with your supervisor, attending professional development training, or writing up your notes after a session with a client.
To be successful in this role you will need to be very organised and have the ability to treat your clients with unconditional positive regard.
There are 9 courses available for people who want to become a Mental Health Counsellor. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and staying safe at work. To graduate and receive the qualification, each student must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work. The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
Average duration: 12 months.
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma. The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
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..
Average duration: 24 months.
The Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health provides a comprehensive foundation in understanding substance abuse and mental health issues, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to provide effective support and intervention strategies in both domains. This program combines theoretical learning with practical training, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges..
Do you want to become a professional counsellor? With the Bachelor of Counselling you can setup your own counselling practice and support clients suffering from a range of issues including trauma, addictions, grief, anxiety, family and relationship problems. During your studies you will be honing your communication and interpersonal skills, making you a more effective listener and practitioner. The degree also covers counselling theory, professional reflection and self-care, counselling and neuroscience, counselling children and youth. Graduates are eligible for membership with a number of professional associations including the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Enquire now for the list of study units and elective choices, admissions information, and universities in your area that offer the Bachelor of Counselling..
Average duration: 3 years.
The average salary for qualified counsellors in Australia is currently $1,652 per week ($85,904 annually). Increase your earning capacity by undertaking post-graduate qualifications and registering with professional organisations like the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).
There are 35,000 fully qualified counsellors working in Australia right now, some of these are Mental Health Counsellors. They work in hospitals, aged care facilities, community health clinics, schools, correctional service facilities, and private workplaces. A large number of Mental Health Counsellors work in private practice.
You can launch your career as a Mental Health Counsellor in Australia by obtaining a VET Diploma of Counselling and joining the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). However, you will have more employment opportunities by obtaining a Bachelor of Counselling or Master of Counselling and elevating your professional membership with the ACA or PACFA.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within counselling and mental health. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Counselling
Support Worker
$960 weekly pay
Art Therapist
$1,250 weekly pay
Crisis Support Worker
Family Counsellor
$1,150 weekly pay
Life Coach
Marriage Counsellor
Mental Health Clinician
Mental Health Social Worker
$1,736 weekly pay
Mental Health Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
$1,440 weekly pay
Music Therapist
Rehabilitation Counsellor
Relationship Counsellor
Social Worker
Student Counsellor
Substance Abuse Counsellor
Youth Counsellor
Career Counsellor
$2,115 weekly pay
Counsellor
$1,450 weekly pay
Crisis Counsellor
$1,652 weekly pay
Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
$1,920 weekly pay
Grief Counsellor
Guidance Counsellor
$2,307 weekly pay
Mental Health Counsellor
Mental Health Practitioner
$1,500 weekly pay
Psychotherapist
Mental Health
Intake Worker
$1,350 weekly pay
Mental Health Nurse
$1,540 weekly pay
Peer Support Worker