Course Overview

About This Course

The Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy is a coursework master's degree offered by The Cairnmillar Institute in the field of counselling and human welfare studies. The program includes a compulsory work component of 300 hours over 40 weeks, preparing graduates for professional practice in counselling and psychotherapy.

Where You Can Study

Available Locations

391-393 Tooronga Road, Hawthorn East, Victoria 3123

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Eligibility

Entry Requirements

General Requirements

No specific entry requirements are listed on this page. Please contact The Cairnmillar Institute directly for detailed admission criteria.

Quality & Recognition

Accreditation & Migration

Academic Regulator

TEQSA

Professional Body

Australian Counselling Association (ACA) / PACFA

Accreditation Status

Accredited

Skills Assessor

ACA / PACFA

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy take to complete?

The Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy at The Cairnmillar Institute has a duration of 104 weeks as registered on the CRICOS registry.

Is there a practical work component in this course?

Yes, the course includes a mandatory work component totalling 300 hours, structured as 7.5 hours per week over 40 weeks.

How much does the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy cost for international students?

The estimated total course cost for international students is AU$60,984 in tuition fees, with no additional non-tuition fees listed.

Where is The Cairnmillar Institute located?

The Cairnmillar Institute is located in Hawthorn East, Victoria, at 391-393 Tooronga Road, and the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy is delivered from this campus.

Is this course eligible for extended Post-Study Work Rights?

To be eligible for extended Post-Study Work Rights, a course must meet several criteria including being registered, being a Skills Level 1 qualification, having a duration of 92 weeks or greater, and having its narrow Field of Education align with the Skills Level 1 priority list. This course (104 weeks, Masters level, field 0905 Human Welfare Studies and Services) may meet several of these criteria, but eligibility is reviewed yearly — contact ESOS-PolicyTeam@education.gov.au for confirmation.

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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