Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy

The Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy is the perfect starting point for anyone passionate about helping others, understanding human behaviour, and building a meaningful career in mental health. Designed for both domestic and international students, this program equips you with essential counselling skills, practical therapeutic approaches, and a deep understanding of mental health support.

As demand for mental-health professionals continues to grow across Australia, this diploma provides a strong foundation for further study—such as a Bachelor, Graduate Diploma, or Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy—and opens doors to diverse entry-level roles in community services, support work, mental health care, and wellbeing services.

Why Study This Program?

High Demand for Mental Health Practitioners

Australia faces a significant rise in mental-health service needs. Counselling professionals are needed in schools, hospitals, community centres, aged care facilities, correctional services, and private practice.

Strong Pathway to Higher Education

This diploma is a recognised pathway toward:

  • Bachelor of Counselling and Psychotherapy
  • Bachelor of Psychology & Counselling
  • Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy
  • Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy
Gain Practical, Job-Ready Skills

Students learn:

  • Counselling micro-skills
  • Trauma-informed practice
  • Case-note writing
  • Intake assessments
  • Therapeutic communication
  • Ethical and professional practice
Build a Meaningful, High-Impact Career

Working in counselling allows you to support vulnerable individuals, families, and communities. It is emotionally rewarding and offers long-term stability.

Suitable for International Students

Many accredited institutions in Australia offer this program with:

  • Student visa eligibility
  • Flexible intakes
  • Supportive learning environments
  • Clinical experience opportunities

Course Structure

The Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy provides foundational academic knowledge and hands-on training in therapeutic approaches. You will explore human development, communication frameworks, professional ethics, counselling modalities, and real-world support strategies. This program blends theory, skills training, and supervised practical experience to prepare you for entry-level professional roles.

  • Introduction to Counselling Skills
  • Psychology Foundations
  • Human Development Across the Lifespan
  • Trauma-Informed Care
  • Mental Health Awareness
  • Ethics and Professional Practice
  • Communication Techniques
  • Case Management Fundamentals
  • Introduction to Psychotherapy
  • Cultural Awareness in Practice

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this program, you will be able to:

  • Apply counselling micro-skills in supportive settings
  • Communicate empathetically and professionally
  • Conduct client intake and basic assessments
  • Maintain professional boundaries
  • Work ethically within Australian mental-health guidelines
  • Understand key therapeutic models
  • Contribute to community and support-based roles

Entry Requirements

Academic
  • Year 12 (or equivalent secondary school qualification)
  • OR relevant vocational/industry experience
English Language
  • IELTS 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)
  • PTE 50
  • TOEFL iBT 64
Additional
  • Passport copy
  • Academic transcripts
  • Statement of Purpose (if required)
  • CV (if applying based on work experience)
Visa Information
  • This course is eligible for the Australian Student Visa (Subclass 500)
  • Students must meet GTE, financial, and English requirements set by the Department of Home Affairs

How to Apply

Follow these steps to begin your application journey

1
Submit an Enquiry

Contact our team to discuss eligibility, requirements, and available intakes.

2
Prepare Documents

Provide academic transcripts, English test scores, and identity documents.

3
Receive an Offer Letter

Once assessed, you will receive a conditional or unconditional offer.

4
Accept the Offer & Make Initial Payment

Pay the initial deposit as required by the institution.

5
Receive Your COE (Confirmation of Enrolment)

This document is needed to apply for your student visa.

6
Apply for Student Visa

Submit your visa application with supporting documents.

7
Begin Your Studies in Australia

Attend orientation, begin classes, and start developing your counselling skills.

Tuition Fees

AUD $12,000 – $20,000 per year

Depends on institution and campus location

Payment Plans
  • Monthly/term-based payment options
  • Discounts for upfront payment
Scholarships Available
  • Partial scholarships for high academic achievers
  • Early applicant discounts
  • Regional and country-specific scholarships for international students

Career Outcomes

Graduates can access a wide range of entry-level mental-health and community roles. This diploma also provides a pathway toward becoming a professional counsellor through further study.

Community Support Worker
Mental Health Support Worker
Case Worker Assistant
Youth Worker
Family Support Assistant
NDIS Support Worker
Welfare Worker
Peer Support Worker
Aged Care Mental Health Assistant
1
Course Found
Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy
Diploma
Foundation Program for Mental Health Careers

Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy

  • 1 Year (full-time)
  • Year 12 or equivalent
  • Ikon Institute of Australia
FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Most programs take 1 year full-time, with some offering part-time options.

Ready to Pursue a Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy?

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