Youth Counsellor Courses
Youth Counsellors assist young people with emotional and personal issues, fostering strategies to address mental health, relationships, and trauma.
AI Exposure
High

AI exposure data adapted from Felten, Raj & Seamans (2021). Shortage data sourced from Jobs and Skills Australia (2024).
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How do I become a Youth Counsellor
Get qualified to work as a Youth 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
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CHCPRT025
Duration
Half day - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
The CHCPRT025 Identify and Report Children and Young People at Risk course is an approved child protection training required by government protocol. It covers recognising signs of abuse and neglect, and understanding types of abuse. This unit outlines skills to identify and report at-risk children and young people according to legislative requirements. It applies to workers in roles providing services to children and young people, including community services, education, childcare, and health contexts.
E...
Career opportunities
Duration
Half day - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, Distance, On Campus, Online
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CHC50425 & CHC53315
Estimated fee
From $12,995
The CHC50425 & CHC53315 Dual Diploma of Youth Work and Mental Health provides learners with two nationally recognised qualifications. It develops advanced knowledge and skills for roles in community and youth services, emphasising professional judgement, ethical decision-making, and evidence-informed practice. Graduates gain broader career opportunities and the ability to work across diverse community settings, preparing them for positions that require advanced expertise and the capacity to respond effect...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $12,995
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CHC40313
Duration
12 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Work in child welfare with the Certificate IV in Child, Youth and Family Intervention (CHC40313). This nationally recognised training course qualifies you for work in a range of community services roles helping young people and families. The course will teach you how to Identify and respond to children and young people at risk — then work collaboratively to establish a safe environment for them. Choose electives in career interest areas: mental health, domestic violence, family intervention strategies, tr...
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 12 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Youth Counsellor.
Common questions

How much do Youth Counsellors earn?
In Australia, a full time Youth Counsellor generally earns $1,500 per week ($78,000 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 can you expect a higher salary than people who are new to the industry.

What are the job opportunities for Youth Counsellors?
There are approximately 12,300 Youth Workers and Counsellors employed in Australia right now. They are mostly employed by government departments, healthcare facilities, schools and community service organisations.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights

How do I become a Youth Counsellor?
Youth Counsellors usually need a bachelor’s degree in social work or psychology, but you could also get started with a Diploma of Counselling and a Certificate IV of Youth Work. The Diploma takes 12 months to complete and requires a work placement. You will also require a national police check and working with children clearance.
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More information
Youth Counsellors support young people as they work through personal and emotional issues — helping them develop strategies for problems with relationships, family, school, finances addictions, sexual identity, trauma, or mental health. Youth Counsellors often work at call centres for charities and community service organisations.
As a Youth Counsellor you will need confidence, compassion and empathy — plus the ability to communicate with young people who may be suffering from mental health problems or addictions. You’ll could also be working with a range of government departments, case workers, and family members as you develop rehabilitation programs and therapies for your clients.
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