Do you have a strong drive for learning, a knack for listening and a desire to positively impact people’s lives? If so, consider a career as a counsellor in Australia. This rewarding path requires you to obtain the right counselling qualifications and develop practical skills and knowledge to truly make a difference. Plus, you’ll need to engage in ongoing professional development and maintain registration with professional bodies (more on that later!).
It might sound like a lot, but don’t worry. We’ve created a step-by-step guide on how to become a counsellor in Australia so you can easily see what’s involved. And just imagine how it would feel to have a career where you can make a meaningful difference, supporting people as they change their lives for the better.
First, let’s start with a brief overview of counselling in Australia
Counsellors in Australia are trained professionals who help people navigate personal challenges, such as life transitions, relationship issues and mental health conditions, such as anxiety, depression and eating disorders.
Counsellors are often registered with professional bodies, such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA), to ensure they meet high ethical and professional standards.
As a counsellor, you might:
- provide a safe and confidential space for people to talk about their thoughts and feelings
- use therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, to support and empower your clients
- specialise in a particular area, such as alcohol and other drugs, aged care, youth or organisational development.
No two days will be the same, so if you love variety and problem-solving, this might be a rewarding career option for you!
And thanks to greater awareness of mental health issues and the importance of seeking help, there is a growing demand for counsellors in Australia. And there are plenty of options for you to make the job your own. Offer counselling online so you can work from your favourite location. Open a private practice. Work at a school, hospital or corporate organisation. Specialise in a field that interests you. The choice is yours.
How to become a counsellor in Australia: a step-by-step guide
Step 1: Research and explore the field
Understand the counselling profession. Learn about the roles, responsibilities and different specialisations of counsellors. Did you know that a qualification in counselling can be helpful in a variety of fields, including human resources, policing and public service?
Explore counselling theories and approaches. Familiarise yourself with various therapeutic modalities and their applications. Head to your local library and peruse the psychology section – you might be surprised by the breadth of interesting topics, from personality types to emotional intelligence.
Browse counselling organisations. Learn about the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and other relevant professional bodies. Not only are they great resources, but you can also use them to find nationally accredited courses and interesting events.
Step 2: Choose a suitable qualification
Consider your goals and interests. Determine if a Diploma, Bachelor’s or Master’s degree aligns with your career aspirations.
Research accredited counselling courses. Identify universities or colleges offering reputable counselling programs. Thinking about obtaining a bachelor degree? Check out our Bachelor of Psychology1 or our Bachelor of Social Work2, which are accredited courses to help you start your counselling career on the right foot.
Evaluate course content and curriculum. Ensure the program covers essential topics like counselling theories, ethics, and practical skill sets. Don’t forget to check out the electives! In our Bachelor of Psychology1, electives include psychology of crime, health psychology and psychology of stress and trauma.
Step 3: Enrol in a counselling program
Complete the application process. Check that you meet the entry requirements, submit required documents, such as transcripts and references. Congratulations! This is an exciting step, so be sure to celebrate.
Consider financial aid options. Explore government funding or scholarships to help cover tuition costs.
Prepare for the academic demands. Be ready to dedicate time to coursework, assignments, and practical placements. A study plan can help you hit deadlines and prep for exams while still making time for the fun stuff.
Step 4: Gain practical experience
Seek internships or placements. Gain hands-on experience working with clients under clinical supervision. As a Charles Sturt student, you can undertake workplace-integrated learning at Marathon Health, one of Australia’s largest providers of headspace mental health services. Gain confidence in your skills and knowledge while meeting people who could become part of your professional network. Triple win!
Volunteer in counselling organisations. Contribute to the community and enhance your skills. Did you know you can volunteer at mental health organisations such as Lifeline and Beyond Blue? You could help run events, participate in fundraisers or volunteer to provide support.
Consider part-time work. Explore early career opportunities in schools, community centres or mental health services.
Step 5: Complete your qualification
Attend classes and workshops. Actively participate in your coursework and engage with fellow students. Looking for more ways to connect? Check out our student clubs or consider starting your own. Psychology book club, anyone?
Complete assignments and projects. Demonstrate your understanding of counselling skills and concepts and always save your work – it might come in handy during your career.
Successfully pass examinations. Meet the academic requirements for your chosen qualification. Study well, look after yourself and don’t forget to give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back once your exams are done. You might have even learned some stress management techniques you could put into practise, yourself.
Step 6: Seek registration (optional but recommended)
Choose a professional body. Consider joining the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). These professional bodies ensure that you’re well-supported and up-to-date with your professional knowledge. Some jobs will also require you to have a current registration with a professional body.
Meet registration requirements. Complete any necessary paperwork and fees. This might not be the most exciting task on the list, so be sure to reward yourself with a fun activity when you’re done.
Adhere to ethical guidelines. Uphold the standards and codes of conduct set by the professional body. This will help you be the best counsellor you can be.
Step 7: Build your professional network
Attend industry events and conferences. Connect with other counsellors and professionals in the field. Follow them on LinkedIn, organise informal catch-ups or start a Facebook group where you can share helpful resources.
Join online communities and forums. Participate in discussions and share knowledge. Podcasts can also provide a wealth of information – maybe one day, you’ll be interviewed as an expert counsellor yourself!
Seek mentorship. Learn from experienced counsellors and receive guidance on your practice. It can be tricky to identify your own areas for growth, so don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. Channel your inner Amy Santiago – she was always keen to learn from her mentors so she could get better at her job.
Step 8: Find employment or establish a private practice so you can officially become a counsellor in Australia
Utilise job boards and networks. Search for a counselling job and don’t be afraid to think outside the box! Did you know counsellors can work in schools, courts, hospitals, businesses, universities and mental health organisations? You could become a youth worker or dive into the world of business organisational development or human resource management.
Consider starting your own private counselling practice. Develop a business plan and market your services. Utilise social media, build a website or start a podcast to get your business out there.
Network with other professionals. Build relationships with referral sources and potential clients. At Charles Sturt, 89% of our social work undergrads are employed full-time within 4 months of graduating* and we offer workplace-integrated learning so you can build important relationships with other professional counsellors.
Step 9: Continue professional development
Attend workshops and seminars. Stay updated on the latest trends and research in counselling. Good news – the fields of counselling, mental health, psychology and social work can be incredibly interesting. And you might even learn new techniques and concepts that would make a positive difference in your own life.
Seek supervision. Receive guidance and feedback on your practice. When you become a counsellor in Australia, you’re signing up for a career of learning, adapting, growing and trying new things. A supervisor can share helpful knowledge and advice – plus it’s always nice to have someone in your corner as you progress through your career.
Participate in continuing education. Maintain your skills and knowledge through short courses or enrol in further studies to take the next step in your career. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for new research and therapeutic approaches!
3 tips for when you become a counsellor in Australia
- Develop self-awareness. By reflecting on your thoughts, feelings, biases, values and reactions, you’ll be able to build more empathetic relationships with your clients. You might identify new ways to be a better listener and create a safer and more supportive environment. It can also be important to recognise when you’re feeling tired, stressed or irritated so you can mitigate the impact of your emotional states. Which leads us to the next tip!
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from a mentor. Ethical guidance. Emotional support. Knowledge transfer. Professional development. These are just some of the benefits you might experience when you work with a mentor or supervisor.
- Practice self-care. You might have heard the phrase, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” When you’re depleted, it can be difficult to give other people the time, energy, support and understanding they might need. That’s why it’s important to “fill your cup” with self-care activities that replenish your mental and physical energy. Read a book. Go out for coffee with a friend. Speak to a counsellor yourself. Prioritise sleep, exercise and nourishing food. Do the things that help you feel good, so you can show up for your clients.
Frequently asked questions about how to become a counsellor in Australia
How long does it take to become a counsellor in Australia?
It generally takes four to six years to become a counsellor in Australia, depending on the level of education you pursue and whether you study full-time or part-time. After completing your studies, you may need to register with professional bodies like the ACA and commit to ongoing professional development to maintain your registration.
How much does becoming a counsellor cost?
There are various costs to consider, including your chosen course fee, textbooks, professional registration and time you might need to take off work for exams or work-integrated learning.
At Charles Sturt, we offer scholarships and financial support, so it’s always worth checking where you could save money.
While there are costs to obtaining a counselling qualification, there are plenty of rewards, too. An unforgettable uni experience. A network of professionals and future colleagues who can support you. A greater understanding of mental health. And a rewarding and fulfilling career.
What is the difference between counsellors and psychotherapists?
While there is overlap between counselling and psychotherapy, they can differ in scope and duration. Counselling tends to focus on specific issues or situations while psychotherapy involves a deeper exploration of emotional issues.
If someone is dealing with a specific, short-term issue and needs some guidance and support, counselling might be more appropriate. However, if they’re planning to address a complex, long-standing problem, then psychotherapy might be the way to go.
What are some of the common misconceptions about counselling?
“So, how does that make you feel?”
If you’ve ever seen a movie about a counsellor or psychologist, you’ve probably heard that classic line. However, counselling involves much more than one simple question! Yes, clients might talk about their feelings. But they might also discuss relationships, work, challenges, beliefs, plans for the future, pains from the past, practical strategies and a specific life experience (such as moving house or having a baby). A counsellor might encourage clients to try new things or overcome obstacles. There’s a lot more to counselling than just one question.
Another common misconception is people only seek out counsellors because they’re “weak” or “have major issues.” However, it often takes courage and strength to ask for support. It’s not always easy to talk about things that challenge us and be open to making changes. And sometimes, it can be helpful to see a counsellor for smaller issues before they escalate into bigger problems. As a counsellor, it can be important to be prepared for anyone to walk through the door – but always keep in mind that it takes a courageous person to ask for help when they need it.
Ready to get started on your journey towards becoming a counsellor in Australia?
Check out our range of psychology and social work courses to find the right fit for you. With flexible study options, online learning, dedicated support and multiple pathways to help you get the qualification you want, this could be the start of your rewarding career in counselling.
*Good Universities Guide 2024/25
1CRICOS: 025518G
2CRICOS: 25195D
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