Course Overview

About This Course

The Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling provides specialised training to enhance the practice of healthcare professionals. This program is ideal for accredited counsellors, registered psychologists, social workers, chaplains and other healthcare professionals with prior qualifications and experience. The course covers the development and implementation of trauma-informed care and counselling, based on best practices for addressing trauma across the human lifespan. Topics include responses to childhood trauma, domestic and family violence, human trafficking, and natural disaster recovery. This course will help you build skills in trauma-informed approaches to counselling, treatment, and recovery management, based on the latest research.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

30 Cowper Street, NSW

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

Higher Education Study: Completion of an AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in a related discipline by an authorised institution, as determined by the Program Director.
Professional Entry – Applicants who do not meet academic requirements: Demonstrate a minimum of 3 years relevant work experience in a related field. Applicants must submit a copy of their CV with a cover letter outlining how they meet the above criteria, or equivalent. This is an alternate pathway for applicants who do not meet other academic requirements.
International Students – Language Requirements: IELTS (or equivalent) Score of 6.5 (with no score below 6.0 in any of the four skills areas).
Proof of Identity: Applicants must submit a proof of identity document for every application. Accepted forms of identification: Birth Certificate, Passport (current and valid). A supporting document must be submitted in addition to the identity document if an applicant's name is different on their primary document (Marriage Certificate or Change of Name Certificate). AC does not accept a driver's licence or photo card as sufficient ID.
Statement of Purpose: Applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose (minimum 150 words) explaining why you would like to be considered for entry into this course, what relevant experience or previous study you have in this area, what your understanding of the course is, and what it is you hope to gain from studying this course.

Career & Study Pathways

Where this takes you

Career Opportunities

Become a Trauma Counsellor: being able to provide dedicated support and recovery strategies for trauma survivors. Enhance your role as a Psychologist: Integrate trauma-informed care into your practice, ensuring evidence based care for your clients. Advance as a Social Worker: Provide more specific and effective support to those affected by trauma.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Counselling Association (ACA) / PACFA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ACA / PACFA

Course Content

Units of Competency

All Units4 units

SSC447

Trauma Informed Practice I

Gaining a deep understanding of trauma and its pervasive impacts is beneficial for supporting those affected. This unit equips students with the knowledge to develop and critique trauma-informed care principles and apply evidence-based interventions. By exploring cultural and social factors, students learn to approach trauma with sensitivity and insight, preparing them to support recovery and growth within varied contexts.

SSC550

Trauma Informed Counselling I

This unit prepares you to address trauma with an understanding of the multifaceted nature of trauma on the individual and community. Students will explore trauma symptoms, treatment and recovery; including insights from neuroscience and post-traumatic growth literature. You will think carefully through assessment of physiological, social and psychological impacts of trauma to inform treatment plans ensuring best practice.

SSC548

Trauma Informed Practice II

Building on Trauma Informed Practice I, this subject is important for professionals aiming to provide effective support to trauma survivors. This unit focuses on assessing and supporting individuals, families, and communities, using trauma-informed principles to guide interventions. You will also explore community resources, develop strategies for client-centred care, and learn to manage professional wellbeing.

SSC551

Trauma Informed Counselling II

Building on Trauma Informed Counselling I, this subject deepens your understanding of trauma-informed therapies, focusing on both theoretical and practical applications. It encourages ongoing professional development and equips you to design effective, evidence-based treatment plans. Students will gain proficiency in assessment and working with evidenced based trauma modalities such as Trauma-Informed Acceptance and Committment Therapy.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling designed for?

The course is ideal for accredited counsellors, registered psychologists, social workers, chaplains, youth workers, and other healthcare professionals with prior qualifications and experience who wish to enhance their practice with trauma-informed care and counselling skills.

How much does the Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling cost?

The course costs $3,150 per subject. There are 4 subjects in total, and FEE-HELP may be available to eligible domestic students.

Can I study the Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling part time, and how long will it take?

Yes, the course is currently available for part-time study only and can be completed in up to 2 years. It is delivered fully online via Online Recorded and Online Live modes.

What topics are covered in the Graduate Certificate in Trauma Counselling?

The course covers the development and implementation of trauma-informed care and counselling, based on best practices for addressing trauma across the human lifespan. Topics include responses to childhood trauma, domestic and family violence, human trafficking, natural disaster recovery, neuroscience insights into trauma, post-traumatic growth, and evidence-based modalities such as Trauma-Informed Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.

What are the entry requirements if I don't have a relevant bachelor degree?

Applicants who do not meet the academic requirement of a completed AQF Level 7 Bachelor degree (or higher) in a related discipline may apply via a professional entry pathway by demonstrating a minimum of 3 years relevant work experience in a related field. Applicants must submit a copy of their CV with a cover letter outlining how they meet the above criteria, or equivalent.

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!

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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