Diploma of Counselling

The CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling, offered by Open Colleges, is a nationally recognised qualification designed for those who want to build a meaningful career supporting others. Delivered entirely online, the course allows students to study at their own pace with no set semester dates, making it well suited to people balancing work, family, or other commitments. Assessments are practical and skills-based with no exams, and students are guided by industry-experienced trainers, including registered clinical counsellors with real-world practice backgrounds.

The course covers a broad range of learning areas that form the foundation of professional counselling practice. Students develop specialist interpersonal and interviewing skills, explore personality and human development theories, and learn how to select and apply a range of counselling therapies. The curriculum also addresses working with people experiencing mental health challenges, loss and grief, domestic and family violence, crisis situations, and problem gambling. Cultural safety, including respectful practice with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, is woven throughout, as is a strong focus on legal and ethical responsibilities.

It is worth noting that the counselling profession in Australia remains self-regulated, and this diploma provides an entry-level foundation rather than a direct pathway to independent practice. Enquire to learn more about whether this course is the right fit.

160 hours of work placement is required to complete this course.

Please note: This is a fee-for-service course. It is not government funded.

Upon successful completion of this course you will receive a Diploma from Open Colleges.

The nationally recognised CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling equips graduates with the practical skills needed to pursue entry-level roles as a counsellor or case worker across a range of community, health, and support settings. The course covers counselling techniques, interpersonal communication, crisis response, and working with people experiencing mental health challenges, domestic and family violence, grief, and problem gambling. Graduates are prepared to work in not-for-profit organisations, community services, and support agencies.

It is worth noting that the counselling profession in Australia remains self-regulated, and this diploma does not automatically confer registration with major bodies such as the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or PACFA. Graduates may be eligible for membership with other associations, such as ACCA or VMPHAA, depending on each organisation’s criteria. For those wishing to progress further, such as into private practice or school counselling roles, further study at bachelor level is generally recommended. This diploma provides a solid foundation from which to build a rewarding career in counselling and related community services.