Accreditation and Professional Recognition Expand The Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy is accredited by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). The program sits within level 8 of the Australian Qualifications Framework.
Admission Criteria Expand Admission to the Graduate Diploma in Counselling and Psychotherapy requires one of the following: An Australian Bachelors degree (AQF level 7) in a related discipline (e.g., teaching, social work, psychology or counselling) with a minimum weighted average mark of 60. 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 short 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. 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 Graduates 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 second year of the Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy.
Course Structure Expand This program consists of 100 credit points and integrates four units (50 credit points) from the Graduate Certificate of Counselling and Psychotherapy in the first semester. Students undertake a total of eight units during the course, consisting of seven coursework units (87.5 credit points) and one placement unit (12.5 credit points). Year One CAP401 Psychotherapeutic Theories and Models CAP402 Person-Centred Counselling CAP412 Ethics and Professional Development CAP417 Assessment Process in Counselling and Psychotherapy CAP404 Facilitating Therapeutic Change CAP405 Cognitive Behavioural Therapies CAP461 Counselling Placement CAP414 Treatment Planning
Fees and Scholarships Expand 2023 fees schedule* Domestic International Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy (8 units) $23,520 $27,720 *Estimated only. Annual tuition fee review and possible increases apply, see: cairnmillar.org.au/course-fees For information on tuition fees and what scholarships might apply to this course, please visit the Fees and Scholarships pages.
Graduate Learning Outcomes Expand Students who satisfactorily complete the Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy should have the professional capabilities to: Critically review and effectively utilise the knowledge of the major schools of counselling and psychotherapy and relevant research in counselling assessment and treatment planning while working with a range of presenting problems across the life span. Develop therapeutic alliance, select, and apply effective counselling processes and interventions to facilitate change and achieve clients’ goals. Apply the principles of trauma-informed and recovery-oriented practice in working with people with mental health problems. Demonstrate knowledge and application of the PACFA Code of Ethics, professional conduct guidelines and the relevant legal State and Commonwealth Acts in identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas. Demonstrate self-awareness, reflectiveness and relating to others by respecting all aspects of diversity and current life context.
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.