Accreditation and Professional Recognition Expand The Graduate Certificate of Counselling and Psychotherapy sits within level 8 of Australian Qualifications Framework. Further study (at least to the Graduate Diploma Level) is required to meet the professional training standards of the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
Admission Criteria Expand Admission to the Graduate Certificate of Counselling and Psychotherapy requires one of the following: An Australian Bachelors degree in any discipline, with a minimum weighted average mark of 60 AND relevant work experience, Please note, applicants undertaking this pathway may be asked to complete Cairnmillar’s Foundational and Intermediate counselling skills professional development and training courses, to establish a baseline competency and skill level. The need to undertake one or both short courses will be discussed in an Admissions Interview, should your application be progressed. A Diploma (AQF level 5) or Advanced Diploma (AQF level 6) AND at least one year of work experience in a relevant field (e.g., teaching, social work, psychology or counselling). This course is not available to international students. Documentation required in the application: Most recent academic transcript(s). A current Curriculum Vitae (resume). Proof of residency/citizenship (e.g., passport, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate). Two references, preferably at least one academic, using the HODSPA reference system. Short-listed applicants will be invited to attend an admissions interview with members of Cairnmillar’s academic faculty. This provides applicants an opportunity to discuss any questions they may have about the course
Career Opportunities Expand Although graduates from this course will not be able to work independently in the field of counselling, they will learn additional communication and relational skills that may enhance their current work-skills. With that, they may find employment in a variety of settings, including: Private practice Pastoral care Allied health Community mental health Social work Mediation Careers counselling Health policy Case manager Rehab support services Mental health support services DV support Child protection Family services Graduates of this program may be eligible to progress directly into the Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Course Structure Expand This program consists of four units (50 credit points), all of which are coursework units. The one-year part-time course structure is as follows: Year One CAP401 Psychotherapeutic Theories and Models CAP402 Person-Centred Counselling CAP404 Facilitating Therapeutic Change CAP405 Cognitive Behavioural Therapies
Fees and Scholarships Expand 2023 fees schedule** Domestic International Graduate Certificate of Counselling and Psychotherapy (4 units) $11,760 N/A **Estimated only. Annual tuition fee review and possible increases applies, see: cairnmillar.org.au/course-fees For information on tuition fees and what scholarships might apply to this course, please visit our Fees and Scholarships pages.
Graduate Learning Outcomes Expand Students who satisfactorily complete the Graduate Certificate of Counselling and Psychotherapy should be able to: Critically evaluate and compare the theories and models of the different schools of therapy and apply them to provided case study material. Effectively utilise the key theoretical concepts, apply therapeutic attitudes, and counselling skills to facilitate change. Critically evaluate the application of the core clinical processes. Demonstrate self-awareness, reflectiveness and the ability to relate to others with respect for all aspects of diversity and their lived experience.
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) Expand Students applying for this program may enter a process in which they may be granted credit or partial credit towards the qualification in recognition of previous experience where an equivalence of earlier learning can be established. Students may only be given credit for any coursework if it is from a successfully completed approved course at the appropriate Australian AQF postgraduate level. Cairnmillar’s RPL policy can be viewed here.