Student Counsellor Resume Examples and How to Write
Are you passionate about supporting student wellbeing but struggling to demonstrate your ability to provide effective counselling interventions, crisis support, and holistic student development in Australia’s complex educational landscape? You’re facing a unique challenge in the student support services field. While your empathy and desire to help students may be evident, translating that passion into compelling evidence of your ability to conduct assessment and intervention, navigate safeguarding protocols, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams requires specific expertise that many aspiring student counsellors struggle to articulate effectively on paper.
This comprehensive guide will transform your student counsellor resume from a basic helping profession summary into a powerful demonstration of your ability to support student mental health, implement evidence-based interventions, and contribute to positive educational outcomes across diverse student populations. Whether you’re transitioning from general counselling, psychology, social work, or seeking to advance within educational settings, we’ll provide you with industry-specific examples, proven templates, and strategic insights to help you stand out in Australia’s critical student support services sector. According to the Australian Council for Educational Research, student counselling roles have increased by 38% as educational institutions recognise the crucial importance of mental health support for academic success and student wellbeing.
Student Counsellor Resume (Text Version)
SARAH MITCHELL
Student Counsellor
[email protected] | 0412 789 234 | LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarahmitchellcounselling
Brisbane, QLD 4000
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Compassionate and experienced Student Counsellor with 7+ years of experience supporting student mental health and wellbeing across secondary and tertiary education settings. Proven track record of providing individual and group counselling to 800+ students annually, implementing crisis intervention protocols, and achieving 85% improvement rates in student wellbeing assessments. Expertise in cognitive behavioural therapy, trauma-informed practice, and multicultural counselling approaches with strong understanding of Australian educational frameworks and safeguarding requirements.
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Student Counsellor | University of Queensland Student Services | March 2021 – Present
– Provide comprehensive counselling services to diverse student population of 45,000+ across undergraduate, postgraduate, and international student cohorts
– Conduct 25+ individual counselling sessions weekly addressing anxiety, depression, academic stress, and adjustment difficulties
– Lead group therapy programs including CBT skills groups, mindfulness workshops, and peer support circles, achieving 90% completion rates
– Develop and implement crisis intervention protocols that reduced student emergency presentations by 35% through early intervention strategies
– Collaborate with academic staff, disability services, and accommodation teams to create comprehensive support plans for at-risk students
– Supervise and mentor 3 provisional psychologists and coordinate student counsellor internship programs
Student Counsellor | Brisbane State High School | June 2019 – February 2021
– Provided individual and group counselling support to 1,200+ students aged 12-18 years across academic, social, and emotional challenges
– Implemented school-wide mental health promotion programs reaching 100% of student population through classroom presentations and workshops
– Conducted comprehensive psychosocial assessments and risk evaluations, ensuring appropriate referral pathways and safety planning
– Developed targeted intervention programs for students experiencing bullying, family difficulties, and academic underachievement
– Liaised with parents, teachers, and external agencies to coordinate wraparound support services for vulnerable students
– Maintained detailed case notes and contributed to student support team meetings and Individual Education Plan development
Youth Counsellor</strong | Headspace Brisbane Youth Mental Health Centre | August 2017 – May 2019
– Delivered evidence-based counselling interventions to young people aged 12-25 presenting with mental health concerns
– Specialised in anxiety disorders, depression, self-harm behaviours, and substance use issues using CBT, DBT, and solution-focused approaches
– Facilitated group programs including social skills development, emotion regulation, and transition to independence workshops
– Provided crisis support and safety planning for high-risk young people, achieving 95% safety plan compliance rates
– Collaborated with psychiatrists, case managers, and vocational counsellors to deliver holistic care coordination
– Contributed to service improvement initiatives and participated in clinical supervision and professional development programs
EDUCATION
Master of Counselling Psychology | Griffith University | 2017
Specialisation: Child and Adolescent Mental Health
Relevant Coursework: Developmental Psychology, Trauma-Informed Practice, Family Systems, Assessment and Intervention
Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) | Queensland University of Technology | 2015
Thesis: “Resilience Factors in Adolescent Academic Achievement” – Achieved First Class Honours
REGISTRATIONS & CERTIFICATIONS
– Registered Psychologist – Psychology Board of Australia | Current
– Member – Australian Psychological Society (APS) | Current
– Mental Health First Aid Instructor | Current
– Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) | Current
TECHNICAL SKILLS
Therapeutic Approaches: CBT, DBT, ACT, solution-focused therapy, narrative therapy
Assessment Tools: DASS-21, GAD-7, PHQ-9, AUDIT, risk assessment protocols
Group Facilitation: Psychoeducational groups, skills-based workshops, peer support circles
Crisis Intervention: Safety planning, suicide risk assessment, emergency response protocols
Technology: Student information systems, telehealth platforms, outcome measurement tools
Multicultural Practice: CALD communities, Indigenous cultural awareness, LGBTQI+ affirmative practice
ACHIEVEMENTS
– Winner: “Excellence in Student Support Services” – Queensland Education Awards 2023
– Developed innovative peer mentoring program adopted across 8 educational institutions
– Achieved 92% student satisfaction rating in annual counselling service evaluations
– Published: “Supporting International Students” – Australian Journal of Guidance and Counselling
What is The Best Format for a Student Counsellor Resume?
The reverse chronological format is optimal for student counsellor resumes as it demonstrates your progressive experience across different educational settings and increasingly complex student support responsibilities. This format allows Australian educational institutions to see your career development from entry-level counselling roles to senior student support positions with diverse populations.
Font and Typography: Use warm, professional fonts like Calibri, Arial, or Helvetica that convey approachability while maintaining professional credibility. Your name should be in 16-18pt font, section headings in 12-14pt, and body text in 10-11pt. The presentation should reflect the caring yet professional nature essential for counselling practice.
Margins and White Space: Maintain 0.5-0.75 inch margins to create clean, organised content that’s easy to read. Strategic white space helps highlight key achievements and demonstrates your attention to detail—a crucial quality for maintaining accurate case records and professional documentation.
File Format: Always submit as PDF to preserve formatting and ensure your professional presentation remains intact across different systems used by educational institutions, health services, and government agencies.
Essential Resume Sections:
Header: Include your full name, professional email, mobile number, LinkedIn profile, and location. Consider adding key registrations (Registered Psychologist) if space permits, as these demonstrate your professional qualifications for student counselling practice.
Summary: Create a compelling 3-4 line summary highlighting your years of student counselling experience, educational settings served, student populations supported, and evidence-based approaches that demonstrate your professional competency.
Experience: Focus on quantifiable outcomes including student numbers supported, intervention success rates, program completion statistics, and collaborative achievements. Emphasise your ability to work with diverse student populations and contribute to positive educational outcomes.
Education: Include relevant qualifications in counselling, psychology, social work, or education. Advanced degrees and professional training are particularly valued in student counselling roles requiring registration and evidence-based practice.
Other Sections: Include professional registrations (essential for credibility), specialised training, notable achievements, and relevant professional associations such as Australian Psychological Society or Australian Guidance and Counselling Association memberships.
What Experience Should Be on Your Student Counsellour Resume?
Your experience section must demonstrate your ability to provide effective counselling interventions, support diverse student populations, and contribute to positive educational and wellbeing outcomes. Focus on measurable results including student numbers supported, intervention success rates, crisis management effectiveness, and collaborative achievements with educational teams. Student counsellor roles require evidence of your therapeutic skills, cultural competence, and understanding of educational contexts and safeguarding requirements.
Emphasise experience with Australian educational frameworks, mental health promotion, and multicultural populations. Highlight your ability to work collaboratively with teachers, parents, and external agencies while maintaining professional boundaries and confidentiality requirements.
Key areas to highlight include:
– Individual and group counselling provision across diverse student populations
– Crisis intervention and risk assessment expertise
– Program development and mental health promotion activities
– Collaborative work with educational and community teams
– Professional supervision and mentoring of junior staff
– Contribution to safeguarding and student welfare protocols
Correct Example:
Student Counsellor | TAFE Queensland Student Support Services | 2022 – Present
– Provide comprehensive counselling support to 2,000+ students across vocational education programs, addressing mental health, academic stress, and transition challenges
– Deliver evidence-based individual therapy achieving 87% improvement in student wellbeing scores using validated outcome measures
– Facilitate weekly group programs including anxiety management, study skills, and social connection workshops with 85% completion rates
– Implement early intervention strategies that reduced student withdrawal rates by 28% through proactive outreach and support
– Collaborate with disability support, academic staff, and industry placement coordinators to ensure comprehensive student wraparound care
– Develop culturally responsive counselling approaches for Indigenous and CALD student populations, achieving 95% engagement rates
Incorrect Example:
Student Counsellor | Some School | 2022 – Present
– Talked to students about their problems
– Helped students with various issues
– Attended meetings and wrote reports
– Worked with other staff on student matters
– Provided counselling services to students
Entry-Level Student Counsellor Resume Samples [Experience]
For entry-level positions, focus on relevant experience including internships, practicum placements, volunteer work, or graduate programs that demonstrate your counselling skills and commitment to student wellbeing. Highlight supervised clinical hours, training programs, and any measurable outcomes from your support work.
Correct Entry-Level Example:
Graduate Student Counsellor | Melbourne Grammar School Student Wellbeing Team | 2024 – Present
– Provide individual counselling support to 40+ secondary students weekly under clinical supervision, addressing anxiety, peer relationships, and academic pressure
– Co-facilitate wellbeing groups focusing on resilience building and social skills development, achieving 90% student attendance rates
– Conduct comprehensive psychosocial assessments and contribute to student support team case conferences and planning meetings
– Implement crisis response protocols and safety planning for at-risk students, maintaining detailed documentation and professional records
– Collaborate with teaching staff to identify students requiring additional support and develop targeted intervention strategies
– Completed 600+ supervised clinical hours working with adolescent populations under registered psychologist mentorship
Incorrect Entry-Level Example:
Counsellor | School | 2024 – Present
– Learning about student counselling
– Helping students with problems
– Attending supervision and training
– Working with school staff
– Supporting student wellbeing
How to Write the Education Section for your Student Counsellor Resume
Education is particularly important for student counsellor roles as it demonstrates your theoretical foundation in counselling psychology, human development, and therapeutic interventions essential for professional practice. Australian employers require specific qualifications for student counselling positions, often including psychology degrees, counselling qualifications, or social work training that meets professional registration standards.
Include relevant coursework that demonstrates your understanding of child and adolescent development, counselling theories, assessment practices, or multicultural approaches. For recent graduates, highlight practicum experiences, thesis research, or clinical placements that relate to student counselling or demonstrate your therapeutic capabilities.
Consider mentioning continuing professional development in areas like trauma-informed practice, specific therapeutic modalities, or specialised populations that enhance your ability to support diverse student needs effectively.
Student Counsellor Resume Example [Education]
EDUCATION
Master of Professional Psychology (Counselling) | University of Sydney | 2020
Specialisation: Child and Adolescent Psychology
Relevant Coursework: Developmental Psychopathology, Trauma-Informed Practice, Family Therapy, Multicultural Counselling
Clinical Placement: 1000+ hours across school counselling, youth mental health, and family therapy settings
Bachelor of Social Science (Psychology) | Australian National University | 2018
Major: Psychology with Education Minor
Relevant Coursework: Developmental Psychology, Abnormal Psychology, Research Methods, Educational Psychology
Honours Project: “Peer Support Programs in Secondary Schools” – Achieved First Class Honours
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
– Trauma-Informed Practice in Schools – Australian Childhood Foundation (2023)
– Acceptance and Commitment Therapy Training – ACBS Australia (2023)
– Cultural Responsiveness in Counselling – Multicultural Mental Health Australia (2022)
– Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) – LivingWorks (2022)
How to Write the Skills Section for your Student Counsellor Resume
The skills section for student counsellors must demonstrate both clinical competency and educational understanding essential for supporting student wellbeing within academic contexts. Include 12-15 skills that show your proficiency in therapeutic interventions, assessment practices, crisis management, and collaborative teamwork. Balance clinical skills (counselling approaches, assessment tools) with educational competencies (understanding developmental needs, academic support) crucial for effective student support.
Focus on skills that match the demands of educational environments, emphasising knowledge of safeguarding, multicultural competence, and evidence-based practice. Include skills that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse student populations while maintaining professional standards and ethical practice.
Student Counsellor Resume Skills (Hard Skills)
• Evidence-based therapeutic approaches (CBT, DBT, ACT, solution-focused therapy)
– Psychological assessment and mental health screening tools
– Crisis intervention and suicide risk assessment
– Group facilitation and program development
– Case management and care coordination
– Professional documentation and record keeping
– Safeguarding and child protection protocols
– Multicultural and trauma-informed practice approaches
– Research and outcome measurement
– Technology integration in counselling practice
Student Counsellor Resume Skills (Soft Skills)
• Empathetic communication and active listening
– Cultural sensitivity and inclusive practice
– Professional boundary management
– Collaborative teamwork with multidisciplinary teams
– Ethical decision-making and professional judgement
– Stress management and self-care practices
– Adaptability to diverse student needs and contexts
– Patience and resilience in challenging situations
– Leadership and mentoring abilities
– Continuous learning and professional development
How to pick the best Student Counsellor skills:
1. Match educational context requirements – Include skills relevant to specific educational settings and student populations
2. Emphasise evidence-based practice – Highlight therapeutic approaches with research support for effectiveness
3. Include crisis management capabilities – Show skills in risk assessment and emergency response
4. Demonstrate cultural competence – Include skills working with diverse populations and cultural backgrounds
5. Show collaborative abilities – Include skills that demonstrate teamwork with educational and health professionals
6. Balance clinical and educational – Include both therapeutic skills and understanding of educational contexts
7. Include professional development focus – Show commitment to maintaining current best practices
Student Counsellor Resume Examples [Skills]
CORE COMPETENCIES
– Therapeutic Practice: Delivered 1,500+ hours of evidence-based counselling using CBT, ACT, and solution-focused approaches achieving 85% positive outcomes
– Crisis Management: Conducted 200+ risk assessments and safety plans with zero adverse incidents through comprehensive crisis intervention protocols
– Group Facilitation: Led 50+ therapeutic and psychoeducational groups with average 90% completion rates and positive participant feedback
– Multicultural Practice: Provided culturally responsive counselling to students from 25+ cultural backgrounds including Indigenous and CALD populations
– Collaborative Care: Successfully coordinated care with 40+ teachers, parents, and external agencies ensuring comprehensive student support
– Professional Development: Completed 100+ hours annual professional development maintaining current evidence-based practice and ethical standards
Should I Add Bonus Sections to My Student Counsellor Resume?
Additional sections can significantly strengthen your student counsellor resume by demonstrating professional development, specialised expertise, and commitment to advancing student mental health and wellbeing. These sections are particularly valuable for counselling roles where ongoing learning, professional registration, and evidence-based practice are essential for effective service delivery.
Professional Registrations: Psychology Board registration, APS membership, or other professional credentials are often mandatory for student counsellor positions and demonstrate your qualified status to practice.
Specialised Training: Additional qualifications in specific therapeutic approaches, trauma-informed practice, or work with particular populations that enhance your counselling capabilities.
Professional Development: Workshops, conferences, or training programs that demonstrate your commitment to maintaining current best practices and expanding your professional knowledge.
Research and Publications: Published articles, research projects, or conference presentations that contribute to the evidence base and demonstrate thought leadership in student counselling.
Awards and Recognition: Professional awards, client feedback, or recognition for innovative programs that validate your effectiveness and professional standing.
Languages: Additional languages that enable you to work with diverse student populations and provide culturally appropriate counselling services.
Student Counsellor Resume Examples [Other Sections]
Correct Example:
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS
– Registered Psychologist – Psychology Board of Australia | PSY0001234567
– Member – Australian Psychological Society (APS) | College of Counselling Psychologists
– Associate Member – Australian Guidance and Counselling Association (AGCA)
– Mental Health First Aid Instructor Accreditation – Mental Health First Aid Australia
SPECIALISED TRAINING
– Dialectical Behaviour Therapy Skills Training – DBT Australia (40 hours) | 2023
– Trauma-Focused CBT for Children and Adolescents – Australian Childhood Foundation | 2023
– LGBTQI+ Affirmative Practice – Switchboard Victoria | 2022
– Indigenous Cultural Competency Training – Griffith University | 2022
RESEARCH & PUBLICATIONS
– “Peer Support Programs in Secondary Schools” – Australian Journal of Guidance and Counselling (2023)
– “Supporting International Students’ Mental Health” – Conference Presentation, AGCA National Conference (2023)
– Co-researcher: “Effectiveness of School-Based Mental Health Programs” – QUT Research Project (2022-2023)
Incorrect Example:
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
– Have psychology qualifications
– Attended various training workshops
– Member of professional groups
– Personal interests include helping people
– Volunteer for community organisations
Include volunteer experience only if it demonstrates relevant counselling skills, work with student populations, or community engagement that enhances your understanding of diverse backgrounds and needs. Professional volunteer roles in mental health or youth services can strengthen your application.
How to write a Student Counsellor Resume Objective or Resume Summary
A compelling professional summary is crucial for student counsellor resumes as it immediately establishes your therapeutic expertise, educational context understanding, and commitment to student wellbeing. This 3-4 line section should highlight your ability to provide effective counselling support, implement evidence-based interventions, and contribute to positive educational outcomes while maintaining professional standards and ethical practice.
Key elements to include:
– Years of counselling experience and educational settings served
– Student populations supported and counselling approaches utilised
– Quantifiable achievements (student numbers, outcome improvements, program success)
– Professional qualifications and registrations that establish credibility
– Specialisations or unique expertise that differentiates your counselling practice
Student Counsellor Resume Summary Examples
Correct Example:
Dedicated Student Counsellor with 8+ years of experience providing comprehensive mental health support across secondary and tertiary education settings. Proven expertise in delivering evidence-based interventions to 1,000+ students annually, achieving 88% improvement in wellbeing outcomes through CBT, ACT, and trauma-informed approaches. Registered Psychologist with Master’s in Counselling Psychology and specialist training in crisis intervention, multicultural practice, and group facilitation. Recognised for developing innovative peer support programs and maintaining collaborative partnerships with educational teams, families, and community services to ensure holistic student care and academic success.
Incorrect Example:
Experienced counsellor with background working with students. Good at listening and helping people with their problems. Looking for opportunities to support student wellbeing in educational settings. Available for positions across Australia.
For entry-level positions, focus on your educational background, supervised clinical experience, practicum placements, and commitment to evidence-based practice that demonstrates your readiness for student counselling work.
Entry-Level Student Counsellor Resume Summary Examples
Correct Entry-Level Example:
Emerging Student Counsellor with Master’s in Professional Psychology and 800+ hours supervised clinical experience across school and youth mental health settings. Successfully provided individual and group counselling to 60+ young people using evidence-based approaches including CBT and solution-focused therapy. Registered Psychologist with specialised training in trauma-informed practice, crisis intervention, and multicultural counselling approaches. Demonstrated commitment to student wellbeing through research in peer support programs and volunteer experience with disadvantaged youth populations, ready to contribute therapeutic expertise to educational environments.
Incorrect Entry-Level Example:
Recent psychology graduate looking for first job as student counsellor. Have completed degree and some practical experience. Enjoy helping young people and want to work in schools. Eager to learn and start career in student support.
How to Update Your LinkedIn Profile When Updating Your Student Counsellor Resume
LinkedIn is particularly important for student counsellors as it demonstrates your professional commitment to student mental health and wellbeing while showcasing your expertise in educational and therapeutic contexts. Your LinkedIn profile should reflect your professional competence while maintaining appropriate confidentiality and ethical boundaries essential for counselling practice.
Use LinkedIn strategically to share insights about student mental health trends, evidence-based practices, and professional development while being mindful of confidentiality requirements. Your profile should complement your resume while demonstrating thought leadership and professional engagement within the student counselling community.
LinkedIn Headline Optimisation for Student Counsellors
Your LinkedIn headline should immediately establish your professional credentials and specialisation area. Include relevant qualifications, registration status, and specialised populations or settings to improve discoverability by educational institutions and mental health services.
Effective Headlines:
– “Student Counsellor | Registered Psychologist | Supporting 1,000+ Students Annually | University & Secondary Settings”
– “Mental Health Professional | Student Wellbeing Specialist | CBT & Trauma-Informed Practice | Educational Settings”
– “Senior Student Counsellor | APS Member | Crisis Intervention & Group Therapy | Multicultural Practice Expert”
Ineffective Headlines:
– “Student Counsellor”
– “Counselling professional helping students”
– “Mental health worker seeking opportunities”
LinkedIn Summary vs Resume Summary: Key Differences
Your LinkedIn summary can be more personal while maintaining professional boundaries appropriate for counselling practice. Share your motivation for supporting student wellbeing, your approach to therapeutic relationships, and your commitment to evidence-based practice. The LinkedIn version can be 2-3 paragraphs and should provide insights into your professional philosophy and approach to student support.
Include general insights about challenges facing students today, innovative approaches you’ve found effective, or trends you’re observing in student mental health while maintaining confidentiality and avoiding specific client information.
Showcasing Student Counsellor Experience on LinkedIn
LinkedIn allows for more detailed descriptions of your therapeutic approach and professional development. Share examples of program innovations, therapeutic modalities you’ve found effective, or collaborative approaches that have improved student outcomes. Always maintain client confidentiality and focus on professional methodologies rather than specific cases.
For each role, provide additional context about the challenges you address in student counselling, innovative approaches you’ve developed, and professional growth you’ve achieved while maintaining ethical practice standards.
LinkedIn Skills and Endorsements for Student Counsellors
Focus on getting endorsements for skills like “Counselling Psychology,” “Mental Health,” and “Student Support” from colleagues, supervisors, and educational professionals who can speak to your therapeutic competence and professional collaboration abilities.
Prioritise endorsements from registered psychologists, education professionals, and clinical supervisors who can credibly validate your counselling skills and professional practice within educational contexts.
LinkedIn Profile Tips for Australian Student Counsellors
Professional Content: Share articles about student mental health trends, evidence-based practices, or insights about supporting diverse student populations. Focus on professional knowledge rather than specific client experiences.
Educational Networks: Connect with educational professionals, mental health clinicians, and student services colleagues across Australian institutions. Engage with professional content and contribute thoughtful insights.
Continuing Education: Highlight professional development activities, training completion, or conference attendance that demonstrates your commitment to maintaining current best practices and ethical standards.
Professional Associations: Showcase involvement with APS, AGCA, or other relevant professional bodies that demonstrate your engagement with the counselling profession and commitment to professional standards.
Thought Leadership: Share insights about mental health promotion, prevention strategies, or innovative approaches to student support while maintaining appropriate professional boundaries and confidentiality requirements.
Creating an effective student counsellor resume requires demonstrating both therapeutic expertise and educational understanding while showing your commitment to evidence-based practice and student wellbeing. By following this comprehensive guide, you’ll develop application materials that effectively communicate your ability to support student mental health, implement effective interventions, and contribute meaningfully to educational success and student development.
Remember to regularly update your resume and LinkedIn profile as you complete additional training, achieve new registrations, or develop specialised expertise in particular therapeutic approaches or student populations. The student counselling field continues to evolve with new research and best practices, and your professional materials should reflect your current capabilities and commitment to professional excellence.
For additional support in your student counselling career, explore our cover letter resources on ethical practice in educational settings and collaborative approaches to student support. A comprehensive approach to your professional development will significantly enhance your success in Australia’s vital student mental health and wellbeing sector.
