• Home
  • Courses by Subject
      • Accounting
      • Bookkeeping
      • Finance
      • MYOB
      • Payroll
      • Xero
      • Animal Care
      • Animal Science
      • Dog Training
      • Pet Grooming
      • Veterinary Nursing
      • Arts
      • Dance
      • Design
      • Graphic Design
      • Interior Design
      • Photography
      • User Experience Design
      • Web Design
      • Building and Construction
      • Carpentry
      • Plumbing
      • Business
      • Business Administration
      • Business Development
      • Business Operations
      • Change Management
      • Customer Service
      • Entrepreneurship
      • Human Resources
      • Leadership and Management
      • Logistics
      • Management
      • MBA
      • Organisational Development
      • PRINCE2
      • Product Management
      • Project Management
      • Quality Management
      • Reception
      • Small Business
      • Supply Chain Operations
      • Aged Care
      • Alcohol and Other Drugs
      • Celebrancy
      • Community Services
      • Disability
      • Individual Support
      • Youth Work
      • Child Care
      • Education
      • Education Support
      • Training and Assessment
      • Manufacturing
      • Agriculture
      • Conservation and Land Management
      • Horticulture
      • Beauty
      • Eyebrow
      • Hairdressing
      • Lash
      • Makeup
      • Nail Technology
      • Allied Health
      • Counselling
      • Dental Assisting
      • Fitness
      • Health
      • Health Administration
      • Health Science
      • Health Services Assistance
      • Life Coaching
      • Massage
      • Medical Administration
      • Mental Health
      • Naturopathy
      • Nutrition
      • Personal Training
      • Pharmacy
      • Practice Management
      • Psychology
      • Sports Management
      • Event Management
      • Hospitality
      • Retail
      • Travel and Tourism
      • Wedding Planning
      • Agile
      • Artificial Intelligence
      • AWS
      • Cloud Computing
      • Coding
      • CompTIA
      • Cyber Security
      • Data Analytics
      • Data Science
      • IT
      • ITIL
      • Microsoft
      • Networking
      • Programming
      • Software
      • Systems Administration
      • Web Development
      • Compliance and Risk
      • Criminology
      • Government
      • Work Health and Safety
      • Digital Marketing
      • Digital Media
      • Marketing
      • Social Media Marketing
    • Blended
    • In-class
    • Online
    • Virtual
  • Courses by State
    • ACT
    • New South Wales
    • Northern Territory
    • Queensland
    • South Australia
    • Tasmania
    • Victoria
    • Western Australia
    • Graduate Diploma
    • Diploma
    • Advanced Diploma
    • Associate Degree
    • Graduate Certificate
    • Certificate II
    • Certificate III
    • Certificate IV
    • Bachelor
    • Masters
    • Short
  • Courses by Provider
  • Government Funded Courses
  • Student Hub
  • The Workforce Training Hub
  • FAQs
 Homepage
Student Hub Career Advice Industry Insider Study Tips Resources Video Gallery
  1. Home
  2. Student Hub
  3. Resources
  4. Which Counselling Course is Right for You?
In this post
  • But first, why study counselling?
  • Types of counselling qualifications in Australia
  • 1. Higher education
  • 2. Vocational education
  • 3. Short courses
  • Choosing the right counselling course
  • Career opportunities in counselling post-study
  • Start your counselling career today
  • Browse Counselling Results
Published on January 25, 2023

Which Counselling Course is Right for You?

Avatar photo Kristen Michaelides
Which Counselling Course is Right for You?
In this post Show
  • But first, why study counselling?
  • Types of counselling qualifications in Australia
  • 1. Higher education
  • 2. Vocational education
  • 3. Short courses
  • Choosing the right counselling course
  • Career opportunities in counselling post-study
  • Start your counselling career today
  • Browse Counselling Results

When you’re considering a career in counselling, it can be hard to know which course is right for you. Many degrees, diplomas, and certificates in counselling exist, each with its pros and cons. Here’s what you need to know about your options!

Browse Counselling Courses

But first, why study counselling?

1. Low barrier to entry

Counselling isn’t a registered profession in Australia, meaning higher education and accreditation aren’t legally required. However, depending on your state, you may need to adhere to a code of practice. Qualifications aren’t compulsory but are highly regarded by employers and can open up more job opportunities.

Getting a qualification can help you:

  • Understand the role of a counsellor.
  • Hone essential counselling skills and methodologies.
  • Learn legal, ethical, and professional standards.
  • Gain hands-on experience in a supportive learning environment.
  • Access valuable professional development opportunities.

2. Rapidly growing field

The demand for qualified counsellors is increasing across various sectors. Mental health awareness, work-life balance concerns, and the growing need for support services mean that skilled professionals are in demand. These professionals are trained to assist clients through various challenges, using effective communication and micro-counselling techniques.

Counselling qualifications can lead to careers in:

  • Alcohol and substance abuse counselling
  • Trauma and crisis counselling
  • Family and relationship counselling
  • School counselling
  • Rehabilitation counselling

3. Makes a difference

Counselling is a meaningful career where you support individuals through personal challenges, mental health struggles, and life transitions. Working with individuals, families, or groups directly impacts people’s well-being and quality of life.


Types of counselling qualifications in Australia

Higher education

  • Bachelor of Counselling
  • Master of Counselling
  • Graduate Certificate in Counselling
  • Graduate Diploma in Counselling

Vocational education (VET)

  • Diploma of Counselling

Unaccredited short courses

  • Certificates in Counselling


1. Higher education

Bachelor of Counselling

A Bachelor of Counselling provides foundational knowledge and practical skills in counselling theories, mental health, ethics, and professional standards. It often includes practical placements and can lead to accreditation as a professional counsellor.

You can pursue further study with a Master of Counselling for advanced specialisation. Or, you can also apply for a Bachelor of Psychology with credit transfers if you’re looking to transition into a career in psychology. Postgraduate certificates in mental health, trauma counselling, or family therapy are also common next steps.

You take units on:

  • Counselling therapies, theories, and methodologies.
  • Building practical skills that are important to counselling.
  • Human psychology, mental health, and development.
  • Counselling ethics, building counselling relationships, legal requirements, and professional standards.
  • Self-reflection.
  • Academic skills such as researching and writing.
  • Human behaviour.

Cost and duration of study

length of course

3 years

(full-time)

approximate cost

$25,000

(covered by HECS-HELP)

Graduate Certificate in Counselling

A short postgraduate course for professionals seeking foundational counselling skills or upskilling in related fields like psychology or social work.

This qualification serves as a stepping stone to a full Master of Counselling or other postgraduate programs. It can also complement existing qualifications for professionals in healthcare, social work, or education.

You take units on:

  • Fundamental counselling techniques and communication strategies.
  • Ethics and legal frameworks in counselling practice.
  • Psychological theories relevant to counselling.
  • Psychological science as a specialisation within counselling disciplines.
  • Practical applications in a range of professional settings.

Cost and duration of study

length of course

Up to 1 year

(full-time)

approximate cost

$14,000

(covered by HECS-HELP)

Master of Counselling

A postgraduate degree for advanced theoretical knowledge and specialised training in trauma, mental health, and family therapy. Includes supervised placements and enhances career progression.

You take units on:

  • Advanced counselling theories and evidence-based practices.
  • Ethical and legal considerations in counselling.
  • Trauma-informed counselling approaches.
  • Specialisations in areas such as family therapy, addiction counselling, or mental health.
  • Supervised placements to enhance practical experience.

Cost and duration of study

length of course

2 years

(full-time)

approximate cost

$40,000

(covered by HECS-HELP)

2. Vocational education

Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015)

This online counselling diploma is an accredited counselling course in Australia. It provides practical, workplace-focused qualifications covering counselling techniques, ethics, and methodologies. This course provides entry-level job opportunities and a pathway to further study.

Graduates may use this as a direct pathway into a Bachelor of Counselling, with credit transfers available at many universities. Some also continue professional development through short courses in specialised counselling fields such as grief counselling or youth mental health.

You take units on:

  • Recognise and respond to crisis situations
  • Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
  • Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills
  • Facilitate the counselling relationship and process
  • Research and apply personality and development theories
  • Apply learning theories in counselling
  • Select and use counselling therapies

Cost and duration of study

length of course

1 year

(full-time)

cost of course

$6000

(only approximate)

Find a Diploma of Counselling

3. Short courses

Certificate in Counselling

A certificate in counselling offers an introduction to counselling theories and skills and is suitable for professionals in adjacent fields (e.g., social work, teaching, nursing). Counselling certificates are offered by Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) or unaccredited private providers.

If you complete a counselling certificate with an RTO, this can lead to further study in a Diploma of Counselling. Many students use it as a trial step before committing to a higher-level qualification.

Cost and duration of study

length of courses

6 months

(full-time)

cost of course

$1000

(only approximate)

Browse Counselling Courses
Your go-to counselling guide

Your go-to counselling guide

Want to explore counselling in more depth? Our comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know—from qualifications to career outcomes.

Learn More

Choosing the right counselling course

Selecting the right counselling course is crucial for your professional development and career success. Here are some key factors to consider:

Factors to consider when selecting a course:

 

Accreditation

Ensure the course is accredited by recognised bodies such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).

 

Curriculum

Review the course curriculum to ensure it covers the topics and skills you want to learn, such as counselling interview skills, personality and development theories, and practical skills.

 

Practicum or internship opportunities

Look for courses that offer hands-on experience through practicum or internship opportunities, which are invaluable for your counselling practice.

 

Faculty expertise

Consider the qualifications and experience of the faculty members teaching the course.

 

Online or on-campus

Decide whether you prefer the flexibility of online classes or the structure of on-campus learning, and choose a course that fits your lifestyle.

 

Cost

Evaluate the cost of the course and ensure it aligns with your budget.

 

Career outcomes

Research the career outcomes of graduates from the course to ensure they align with your career goals.

Chart comparing counselling courses, showing durations and estimated costs for a Bachelor, Master, Graduate Certificate, Diploma, and Certificate in Counselling.


Career opportunities in counselling post-study

Counselling graduates have a wide range of career opportunities across various industries. Whether you’re passionate about mental health, education, or community services, a counselling career can be both fulfilling and diverse.

What career paths are available for counselling graduates?

 

Mental health counsellor

Works in hospitals, clinics, or private practice to provide support and guidance to individuals struggling with mental health issues.

 

School counsellor

Collaborate with students, teachers, and parents to address academic, personal, and social challenges within educational settings.

 

Community counsellor

Engage with community organisations, non-profits, and government agencies to offer support and resources to individuals and families in need.

 

Private practice counsellor

Operate independently, offering counselling services to individuals, couples, and families.

 

Researcher

Contribute to the field by studying the effectiveness of different counselling approaches and developing new therapies.

Potential work environments for counselling graduates include:

  • Hospitals and healthcare organisations
  • Schools and universities
  • Community organisations and non-profits
  • Private practice
  • Government agencies
  • Research institutions

Roles that counselling graduates can expect to take on include:

  • Providing individual and group counselling services
  • Developing and implementing treatment plans
  • Conducting assessments and evaluations
  • Providing crisis intervention and support
  • Collaborating with other healthcare professionals
  • Developing and leading workshops and support groups

Start your counselling career today

A career in counselling not only offers diverse opportunities but also allows you to make a significant impact on the well-being of others. Ready to get started?

Browse Counselling Courses
How to become a counsellor in Australia

How to become a counsellor in Australia

Learn how to become a counsellor in Australia and the courses you can study.

Learn More
Loading...
Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration

Browse Counselling Results

Loading...
Courses found:
Top Result

Certificate III in Non-Emergency Patient Transport (VIC Only) HLT31120

Our Promise We are confident in the delivery of our training. On successful completion of the course, graduates will be guaranteed a telephone interview for vacant Patient Transport Officer positions in the Non-Emergency Patient Transport division. So...

St John Ambulance Australia (VIC) Inc -  Course
Study Method Blended
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Enrolled Nurse
St John Ambulance Australia (VIC) Inc -  Course

Certificate IV in Business (WA Only) BSB40120

The BSB40120 Certificate IV in Business is designed for individuals looking to build strong foundational skills in business operations while preparing for leadership, administrative, or team coordination roles. Delivered through scheduled virtual class...

Gateway Training Academy Pty Ltd -  Course
Study Method Virtual
Location Western Australia
Job Outcomes Team Leader +2
Gateway Training Academy Pty Ltd -  Course

Certificate IV in Information Technology Cyber Security Focus

Defend the Digital World - Build Your Career in Cyber Security Cyber threats are evolving - so should your skills. The ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology Cyber Security Focus provides the practical knowledge and hands-on experience...

Lumify Learn -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes

Cyber Security Architect

Lumify Learn -  Course
New

Diploma of Community Services (Perth Only) CHC52021

The Diploma of Community Services qualification reflects the roles of community services, case management and social housing workers involved in the managing, co-ordinating and/or delivering of person-centred services to individuals, groups and communi...

Industry Skills Training -  Course
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Community Services Case Mana... +4
Industry Skills Training -  Course

Certificate IV in Business (Perth Only) BSB40120

This qualification is suited to those working as administrators and project officers. In this role, individuals use well-developed skills and a broad knowledge base to apply solutions to a defined range of unpredictable problems and analyse information...

Industry Skills Training -  Course
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Personal Assistant +3
Industry Skills Training -  Course

Certificate III in Process Manufacturing (Perth Only) MSM30116

The Certificate III in Process Manufacturing is designed for those working or looking to work in production, warehousing, or factory roles. This hands-on course equips you with the practical skills needed to operate machinery, follow safety procedures,...

Industry Skills Training -  Course
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia +1
Job Outcomes Fabricator
Industry Skills Training -  Course

Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance (Perth Only) HLT33021

Are you interested in entering the health services industry? This nationally recognised qualification will allow you to enter into one of the most rewarding and enjoyable careers! When studying this course, you will gain knowledge in a range of fields...

Industry Skills Training -  Course
Study Method In-class
Location Perth Western Australia
Job Outcomes Podiatrist Aide +3
Industry Skills Training -  Course

Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) (VIC Only) CHC33021

Our nationally recognised CHC33021 Certificate III in Individual Support (Ageing and Disability) is the perfect qualification for people who have a passion for supporting the elderly, or those with a disability, to reach their full potential. Start a c...

Aged Care Training Services -  Course
Study Method Blended
Location Melbourne Victoria
Job Outcomes Disability Support Worker +5
Aged Care Training Services -  Course

Certificate IV in Ageing Support (VIC Only) CHC43015

This qualification reflects the role of support workers who complete specialised tasks and functions in aged services; either in residential, home or community based environments. Workers will take responsibility for their own outputs within defined or...

Aged Care Training Services -  Course
Study Method Blended
Location Victoria
Job Outcomes Personal Care Worker +5
Aged Care Training Services -  Course

Mental Health Certificate BPS216

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Understand more about common mental health conditions and how to manage these conditions. This course helps you to understand the signs, symptoms and possible treatments of adult mental health problems. For the sufferer, managing mental health is far e...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Life Coaching +6
The Career Academy -  Course

Certificate IV in Interior Decoration MSF40122

The Certificate IV in Interior Decoration provides a comprehensive foundation for those looking to begin their journey in interior design. This course covers essential aspects of interior decoration, including space planning, colour theory, design prin...

ISCD -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Interior stylist and decorat... +5
ISCD -  Course

Medical Reception Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Become a Certified Medical Receptionist in just ten weeks and Learn how Medicare works! Developed by health experts, this online course will teach you to use Microsoft Office to schedule appointments, keep records and manage the day-to-day running of m...

The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
Medtech
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
Medtech

MYOB Advanced Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Gain an advanced workforce-ready skillset in MYOB. It’s one of the most highly awarded MYOB courses that you could take. The Advanced Certificate in MYOB for accountancy, bookkeeping and administration roles is loaded with specially rated achievements....

The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
MYOB
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Project Manager +9
The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
MYOB

Event Management Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Become a certified event manager and launch your career. This course is perfect for those wanting to start their own events business or work in the industry. Special event planning can include many types of events, from conferences and sales meetings t...

The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
Institute of Hospitality
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Concierge +9
The Career Academy -  Course
in partnership with
Institute of Hospitality

Event Management & Wedding Planning Business Pathway

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Event management is the perfect career choice for those capable at juggling multiple tasks, who can move at the speed of light and thrive under pressure! Special event planning can include many types of events, not just weddings, from conferences and s...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Concierge +9
The Career Academy -  Course

Dog Psychology, Behaviour & Training Certificate

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Teaching all dogs new tricks. Here’s your chance to teach your dog good behaviour habits in the human and canine world. Our highly instructive online course will teach you all about canine psychology, their senses and behaviour, and you’ll learn how to...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Veterinary Assistant +9
The Career Academy -  Course

Dog Grooming Business Pathway

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Get your dog grooming business off to a flying start. If you’re looking to work for yourself, what could be better than a pathway that shows you the right way to go about it. With this course you’ll learn about the care requirements of dogs, and all ab...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Veterinary Assistant +9
The Career Academy -  Course

Certificate in Business Administration

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

How to maximise your full potential. It’s just the tonic that your career needs. Our industry accredited online course will help you become a certified business administrator, increase your job prospects in Business Administration, enable you to upskil...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Receptionist +2
The Career Academy -  Course

Certificate in Management Fundamentals MGTA1006

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

Fast track your career with a solid base of Management Fundamentals behind you. This online course is ideal for those who just started or looking to begin a career in management or any existing managers who wish to brush up on their foundation skills....

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Business Manager +9
The Career Academy -  Course

Certificate in Accounting

Short Course
This is a short course focused on skill based training rather than a nationally accredited certificate or diploma.

This is a course that ticks all the boxes. The Career Academy Certificate in Accounting will provide you with all the necessary skills to work in an accounting environment. There’s no prior experience needed to do the course. And once you finish, you’l...

The Career Academy -  Course
Study Method Online
Location Anywhere
Job Outcomes Accountant +9
The Career Academy -  Course
12325

Online courses also available

Refine Results
Subject
Qualification Level
Institution
Course Category
Looking For A Short Course?
With a huge range of short courses from Australia's leading online providers, you will be sure to find a course that's perfect for you.
Navigator Illustration
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!
gator tooltip icon
Our course navigator helps refine thousands of courses into a personalised list that suits you. Click to answer each question, so we can provide you with the best possible courses, tailored to your preferences.
Not sure which course to choose? Let us recommend the best courses to suit you!

Try our navigator tool and find the right course.

Start Here
Navigator Illustration
Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Kristen Michaelides

Kristen is a writer specialising in education and the future of work. She is passionate about bringing industry trends and insights to light to help students and professionals take that next step in their career.

Latest Articles


The Future of Counselling Jobs in Australia

Thinking about a career in counselling? You might wonder—is it a good career choice right now? Will...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

How to Get Your Counselling Accreditation and Registration

Embarking on a counselling career in Australia offers a fulfilling opportunity to support people in...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

What Are Counselling Microskills?

Microskills are fundamental communication techniques used to build rapport, actively listen, and gui...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 6, 2025
Read More

Want to read more?


How to Format Your Cover Letter [+ Examples]

Learn how to format your cover letter, and what you need to include. Use this example as a base to b...

Avatar photo
Candlefox
May 12, 2020
Read More

How to Get Your Forklift Licence in Melbourne

Curious to know what courses are available in Melbourne to get your forklift licence? Read this arti...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
May 8, 2023
Read More

Five Reasons Why You Should Study an Accounting Course

Are you a numbers guru who’s looking for a stable career you can continuously develop and grow? If s...

Avatar photo
Kristen Michaelides
Apr 13, 2023
Read More

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get expert advice, insights, and explainers on tricky topics — designed to help you navigate your learning journey with confidence.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy & Policy" and "Terms of Use"
  • Popular Subjects
  • Qualification Type
  • Government Funded Courses
  • Courses by Location
  • Accounting
  • Aged Care
  • Animal Care
  • Beauty
  • Business
  • Business Admin
  • Child Care
  • Community Services
  • Counselling
  • Disability
  • Education
  • Health
  • IT
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Photography
  • Project Management
  • Psychology
  • View More
  • View More
  • South Australia
  • Brisbane
  • Canberra
  • Melbourne
  • Perth
  • Tasmania
  • Victoria
  • Western Australia
  • View More
  • Courses In ACT
  • Courses In NSW
  • Courses In NT
  • Courses In QLD
  • Courses In SA
  • Courses In Tasmania
  • Courses In VIC
  • Courses In WA
  • View More

Newsletter sign up

We'll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.
Courses
  • All Subjects
  • Online Courses
  • Courses by Location
Education Providers
  • Our Providers
  • What is an RTO?
Government Funded Courses
  • What is a government funded course?
  • Am I eligible?
  • Funding by State
Resources
  • Our blog
About us
  • About training.com.au
  • FAQs
Contact us
  • Advertise your course
  • Become an affiliate
Certified B Corporation
Training AU Facebook Training AU Instagram Training AU Tiktok
Certified B Corporation
Australian Aboriginal flag Torres Strait Islander flag
In the spirit of reconciliation, training.com.au acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.
Copyright © 2025 Training.com.au
All Rights Reserved.

Newsletter Sign Up

We’ll email you updates on job trends, career advice, study tips, news and more.

By submitting this enquiry I accept the "Privacy Policy" and "Terms of Use"
Back to Top

You are currently visiting our Australian website Training.com.au

Would you like to visit our New Zealand website instead?

Visit Training.co.nz