Course Overview

About This Course

If you're seeking a counselling career our Diploma of Counselling will explore working with clients with personal and psychological issues. You'll graduate, ready to work in a supported counselling role in an established agency. Learn about communication, micro-counselling and interviewing skills.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

Berwick, VIC

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Minimum age requirement: 18
Students should have previously completed at least a Certificate IV in Community Services fields such as Alcohol and Other Drugs, Mental Health, Youth Work or similar (recommended)
Must be at least 12 months in recovery or 12 months from being in crisis for those with lived experience of mental health, AOD issues, family violence, or other access to community services
Language and literacy: ACSF Level 3 (Working level 4)
Numeracy: ACSF Level 2 (Working level 3)
Must complete a language, literacy and numeracy skills test before course commencement
Good cognitive/intellectual skills: ability to gather and organise information, use judgement and basic problem-solving skills, and have an open mind to understand others' perspectives
Psychological resilience and coping strategies to manage potential course challenges
Good behavioural and social skills: demonstrate professional behaviour, be in control of emotions, respect personal and professional boundaries, take responsibility for own learning
Basic observation skills: ability to notice changes in behaviour including nonverbal cues

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

You'll graduate, ready to work in a supported counselling role in an established agency.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

VRQA / ASQA

Professional Body

Australian Counselling Association (ACA) / PACFA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ACA / PACFA

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What will I learn in the Diploma of Counselling at Chisholm?

The Diploma of Counselling at Chisholm covers the theory and practical skills and strategies needed for a counselling career, including working with clients with personal and psychological issues, as well as communication, micro-counselling and interviewing skills.

What career outcomes can I expect after completing this diploma?

After completing the Diploma of Counselling, you will graduate ready to work in a supported counselling role in an established agency.

What is the course code for the Diploma of Counselling at Chisholm?

The course code for the Diploma of Counselling at Chisholm Institute is CHC51015.

Is this course part of Chisholm's Community and Social Services offerings?

Yes, the Diploma of Counselling is offered under Chisholm's Community and Social Services career field, specifically within the Counselling category.

Application

How to Apply

Three simple steps to get enrolled

Step 01

Enquire

Click "Enquire Now" and tell us a little about yourself. It's free and takes 2 minutes.

Step 02

Submit Documents

Our team will guide you on exactly which documents to prepare and submit.

Step 03

Get Enrolled

Receive your offer letter and confirm your enrolment. Welcome to the course!

Processing time: Offer letter issued within approximately 1 business days.

Course Snapshot

Salary, careers & skills

Typical Salary

Entry-level (0-2 years)AUD $60,000 to $75,000 per year

Early Career (2-5 years)AUD $75,000 to $90,000 per year

Mid-Level (5-10 years)AUD $90,000 to $105,000 per year

Career Paths

Mental Health CounsellorYouth Counsellor / School CounsellorFamily and Relationship CounsellorDrug and Alcohol Counsellor (AOD Counsellor)Trauma Counsellor

Key Skills

Active listening and reflective communicationBuilding therapeutic rapport and trust with clientsApplying counselling theories and frameworks (CBT, person-centred, psychodynamic, narrative)Crisis intervention and risk assessmentTrauma-informed and culturally safe practice

Full Course Overview

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