General knowledge about Counselling.

Developing an understanding of the theoretical basis of counselling and the ethical, legal and professional issues in relation to the practice of counselling, and the acquisition of counselling skills, Understanding of the social, cultural and developmental context in which counselling occurs and a range of therapeutic approaches and appropriate to a range of client ages, needs and circumstances.The course also aims to provide professional development opportunities for people working in counselling roles.

To be eligible to this course student must have completed a degree with a major in psychology or behavioural science, or a degree in an affiliated area or other equivalent qualifications. Candidates will be interviewed and are required to submit a professional statement including professional references, statement of intent, work history and police records check.In special cases candidates who do not satisfy the normal entry requirements but have completed the Graduate Certificate of Counselling and have relevant professional experience, may be accepted for entry to the course.

Articulation to or from the course the students who have completed the Graduate Certificate of Counselling may be eligible for entry to the Graduate Diploma in Counselling. Students who have completed a relevant undergraduate degree may be eligible to progress to the Master of Counselling on completion of the Graduate Diploma in Counselling.The eligibility for listing on the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and registration normally requires two years of postgraduate training, however, admission to the Register based on recognition of prior learning, practice and supervision is also possible.Psychology graduates should note that the Graduate Diploma in Counselling is not an accredited fourth year program in psychology and a graduate will not be eligible for registration as a psychologist.

Counselling graduates work in a wide range of settings including relationship counselling organisations, secondary and postsecondary education, community welfare centres, drug and alcohol agencies, church agencies, and private practice.