What does a counsellor do?
Counsellors support individuals, couples, families, and groups to manage personal, emotional, and psychological challenges. They provide a safe and confidential environment where clients can explore concerns such as stress, grief, relationship difficulties, life transitions, and mental wellbeing. Using evidence-informed therapeutic approaches, counsellors help clients develop coping strategies, improve communication, and work towards positive outcomes.
Counsellors work in a range of settings including community health services, schools, universities, private practice, not-for-profit organisations, employee assistance programs, and government services. The scope of practice can vary depending on qualifications, experience, and professional membership.
Is a career as a counsellor right for me?
A career in counselling may suit you if you are interested in helping others and supporting wellbeing. Skills and attributes that are important for this role include:
- strong listening and communication skills
- empathy and emotional awareness
- professionalism and ethical judgement
- patience and resilience
- the ability to build trust and rapport
- strong boundaries and self-reflection.
How to become a counsellor
If you are exploring how to become a counsellor, the pathway typically involves completing a recognised counselling or psychology related degree, followed by supervised practice and professional membership.
As part of counselling qualifications, graduates often seek membership with organisations such as the Australian Counselling Association or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia. These bodies set education, supervision, and ethical requirements for professional practice.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways into counselling depending on your career goals and the setting you wish to work in.
Average salary per week
$1477
Future demand
Very Strong
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Counsellor FAQs
What counselling qualifications do you need to be a counsellor?
Counselling qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in counselling, psychology, social science, or a related field. Some roles may require postgraduate study or additional supervised practice depending on the area of counselling and employer expectations.
What are the requirements to be a counsellor?
The requirements to be a counsellor can vary depending on the workplace. Common requirements include completing an appropriate degree, undertaking supervised practice, meeting ethical standards, and maintaining professional development. Membership with a recognised counselling body is often expected.
What counsellor course can I study?
A counsellor course at university level covers areas such as counselling theories, communication skills, ethics, mental health, and applied practice. UniSQ offers study options that support students seeking a career in counselling or related support roles.
What are common counsellor career pathways?
Counsellor career pathways may include roles in community services, youth support, family counselling, school settings, private practice, or employee assistance programs. With experience and further study, counsellors may move into clinical, supervisory, or leadership roles.
How long does it take to become a counsellor?
A bachelor's degree typically takes around three years of full-time study. Additional time may be required to complete supervised practice, postgraduate study, or professional membership requirements depending on your chosen career pathway.
Is counselling a good career?
Counselling is a meaningful career for those who want to support individuals and communities. With growing awareness of mental health and wellbeing, counsellors are valued across a range of settings and play an important role in providing accessible support services.
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