How to Become A Counsellor

Steps to Become a Counsellor

Step 1: Complete a Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015)

Enrol in the Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015) at a TAFE or RTO. This takes 12 to 18 months full-time or up to two years part-time. It covers counselling theory, client communication, case management, and hands-on client work with a supervisor. It is the base qualification most employers need for entry-level roles. Check the current code on training.gov.au before you enrol.

Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Counselling or a Related Field

Complete a Bachelor of Counselling or Bachelor of Psychology at an Australian university. Most courses run for three years full-time. A degree gives you a deeper base in therapy methods, research, and ethics. It is also needed for higher-level ACA or PACFA membership.

Step 3: Complete Supervised Clinical Practice Hours

Log the supervised hours your chosen body requires. ACA needs at least 200 hours of supervised practice for Level 2 membership. PACFA needs at least 200 hours of client contact and 50 hours of supervision for Certified Practising Counsellor status. Seek placements during your study or apply for graduate roles that include supervision.

Step 4: Register with ACA or PACFA

Apply for membership with the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA). Both bodies check your study, supervised hours, and ethics training. No government licence is needed to counsel in Australia, but most employers and clients expect ACA or PACFA membership. Membership also gives you access to insurance and learning resources.

Step 5: Commit to Ongoing Professional Development (CPD)

Log your CPD hours each year to keep your membership current. ACA and PACFA both require annual CPD to stay a member. You can take workshops, webinars, online courses, or peer supervision sessions. CPD builds expertise in areas like trauma, grief, and cognitive-behavioural therapy.

A counsellor’s day is built around real talks with real people. They start with client sessions, listening closely and helping each person work through their situation. They run group sessions, write up session notes, and update treatment plans as they go. They also liaise with GPs, social workers, and other health staff to give clients full-circle support. At the heart of it all is helping people find their own strengths and build a better path forward.

Counsellors play a vital role in helping people through some of life’s hardest moments. They work in schools, community centres, private practice, and more. Each client brings a different challenge, and counsellors adapt their approach every single day.

• Running individual sessions in a safe and private setting
• Creating personal treatment plans that match each client’s needs and goals
• Giving crisis support to clients in acute distress or facing emergencies
• Running group therapy sessions that promote healing and shared connection
• Writing accurate session notes and keeping private client records
• Keeping skills sharp through ongoing training and learning
• Working with psychologists, social workers, and medical staff for joined-up care
• Teaching clients practical tools to manage emotions and daily stress
• Helping clients find and access the services and support they need

• Empathy
• Active listening
• Clear communication
• Problem-solving
• Emotional intelligence
• Cultural competence
• Patience and resilience
• Maintaining confidentiality
• Building rapport
• Critical thinking
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Knowledge of mental health issues
• Record-keeping and documentation
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Commitment to professional development