What is counselling?
Counselling is a holistic form of therapy that takes place between a counsellor and a client in a private and safe environment for the latter to discuss their problems. Counsellors are trained to listen well, allowing them to get to the root of their clients' problems. By doing so, they are able to assist their clients in utilising their inner strength and inner resources to resolve their issues. Among the many problems that counseling can help with are relationship issues, academic challenges, job performance, stress, anxiety, depression, financial concerns, and many others.
By joining one of the top counselling associations, such as those listed below, Holmesglen counsellors can build their professional network, discover job opportunities and stay up to date with industry developments.
- Counsellors Victoria (CV)
- Australian Counselling Association (ACA)
- Australian Holistic Healers and Counsellors Association (AHHCA)
- Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA)
- International Institute for Complementary Therapists (IICT)
Should you study counselling?
If you're looking for a career that allows you to provide support and guidance to other people, while enjoying more flexibility in your schedule, you should definitely consider taking a course in counselling. Moreover, training as a counsellor will help you hone vital interpersonal skills that are valued by potential clients and employers, such as:
- Critical thinking and problem solving skills that will enable you to look beyond the obvious and apply evidence-based theories and research in helping clients address their problems.
- Self-discipline and self-management that will help you stick to your workflow and schedule regardless of your personal circumstances.
- Good listening skills will make others feel comfortable confiding in you.
- Empathy or the inherent ability to feel what others feel and know what to say at the right time.
- Emotional stability and calmness allow you to set aside your personal issues and focus on the needs of your clients without getting carried away by their experiences.
If you uphold these values and wish to apply them as you embark on your journey to become a counsellor, then continue reading to learn what courses you can take to earn your qualification.
What are the course and study options for counselling in Holmesglen?
There are many counseling courses available in Holmesglen that can help you reach your goals. Some take a few months to complete, while others can last three to four years. Colleges and universities offer courses on campus, online, or in a blended learning environment. Furthermore, they offer students the option of studying full-time, part-time, in the evenings or on weekends.
Certificate programs can last anywhere from six to nine months, depending on the mode of study you choose. Students learn how their behavioural patterns relate to their core self. It's a good place to start if you are new to the field of counselling and want to see if it's something you would like to do for the long term.
With a diploma program, you will be equipped with the skills and knowledge to work in an organisation or in private practice. You will be able to hone your counselling skills, which will prepare you to find a job in any industry you choose. It takes about 18 months to two years to earn a diploma qualification since it covers more subjects than a certificate program.
The most comprehensive program you can pursue is a bachelor's degree in counselling. In addition to studying the theory and application of the modality, students study social sciences such as psychology and sociology. It may take three to four years to earn a bachelor's degree, depending on the mode of study you choose.
A student who successfully completes a bachelor's degree program may then pursue a postgraduate degree that may last a year or two depending on the program.
Check out the top of the page to see a complete list of counseling courses and schools in Holmesglen. You can contact your preferred provider if you have any questions about their curriculum, course fees or delivery method.
What happens after you complete your counselling course?
After completing a course in counselling, you will be equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to work with any organisation and in any industry. Many graduates have gone on to work in hospitals, schools, multidisciplinary clinics, private companies and community health centers.
You can also start your own private practice, specialising in a particular field, such as mental health, family and relationships, children, or what have you. You can gain more clients and accelerate your journey to success by listing your practice on Natural Therapy Pages' practitioner listing pages, including promoting online counselling services, if they offer it.
You can also advance your career by enrolling in other courses related to your interest. Holistic schools in Holmesglen offer training programs in the following areas:
