Drug and Alcohol Counsellor Courses
Drug and Alcohol Counsellors assist individuals and families struggling with substance addiction, guiding them through recovery and interventions.
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 Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Get qualified to work as a Drug and Alcohol Counsellor with a course recognised across Australia. Speak to a training provider to learn more.
CHC53215
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
A Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215 is great for students seeking a career as drug and alcohol counsellors. This is a high-end qualification and students complete 22 units across workplace management and first aid, counselling, and providing add-on services like relapse prevention and performing interventions.
The Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package.
Career opportunities
Duration
12 months - 24 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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CHC53315 & CHC53215
Estimated fee
From $12,995
The CHC53315 & CHC53215 Dual Diploma of Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs provides learners with two nationally recognised qualifications. It develops advanced knowledge and skills for working with clients experiencing co-occurring needs, emphasising professional judgement, ethical decision-making, and evidence-informed practice. Graduates gain broader career pathways and the ability to work across diverse community service settings, preparing them for senior roles that require expertise, adaptabi...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $12,995
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CHCSS00093
Duration
12 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
Explore the complexities of substance abuse and addiction through our comprehensive Alcohol and Other Drugs Skill Set. Gain a deep understanding of assessment, intervention strategies, and support techniques to effectively address issues related to alcohol and other drug misuse in diverse populations.
Career opportunities
Duration
12 weeks - 6 months
Study mode
Blended, On Campus, Online
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Estimated fee
From $45,864
The Bachelor of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs equips you with a comprehensive skill set to support specialists like psychiatrists and social workers. You will understand issues related to alcohol, drugs, and mental health, as well as legal and ethical frameworks. The course covers community development, counselling, child and youth work, intervention strategies, client advocacy, and aged care. Developed with input from professionals and policymakers, it addresses the growing need for sk...
Career opportunities
Estimated fee
From $45,864
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Related career opportunities
Browse occupations related to Drug and Alcohol Counsellor.
Common questions
How much do Drug and Alcohol Counsellors earn?
The average salary for a counsellors in Australia is currently $1,900 per week ($98,800 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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More information
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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