This course equips students with fundamental knowledge and skills in counselling, together with an understanding of the ethical, legal and professional issues in relation to the practice of counselling required for employment in a range of counselling roles. Students will develop an understanding of the social, cultural and developmental context in which counselling occurs and of 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. Course objectives The Graduate Diploma in Counselling is a skill based course which aims to provide students with the fundamental knowledge and skills required for employment in a range of counselling roles. The course focuses on 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. Students will develop an understanding of the social, cultural and developmental context in which counselling occurs and of 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. Career outcomes Counselling graduates work in a wide range of settings including relationship counselling organisations, secondary and post-secondary education, community welfare centres, drug and alcohol agencies, church agencies, and private practice. Other graduates utilise their counselling skills in their existing employment. You might also find employment in Crisis & Trauma counselling, EAP services, Career counselling / Employment Services, Disability, Aged Care, Justice / Community Corrections, Child & Adolescent services. Professional Recognition The Graduate Diploma in Counselling is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). Upon graduating students may apply to register as a professional member of ACA, which is Australia's largest single registration body for Counsellors and Psychotherapists. For more information go to the ACA website. Eligibility for listing on the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) Register normally requires two years of postgraduate training, however, admission to the Register based on recognition of prior learning, practice and supervision is also possible. For further information, go to the PACFA website. 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.