Q/A with ACAP's Discipline of Counselling Chair
We sat down with Discipline of Counselling Chair, Vicki Hutton, to discuss why studying counselling can lead to varied, rewarding career paths.
Why study counselling at ACAP?
Since 1983 ACAP has grown to provide counsellor education around Australia, with campuses in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Byron Bay. Students learn from skilled academics, many of whom are also practitioners in the field and thus able to bring real-world experience and currency into the learning environment. ACAP is committed to ensuring this learning environment is inclusive, respectful of diversity and that all students are treated equally as they evolve into highly skilled, ethical professionals.
Why is counselling a great future career choice?
The COVID pandemic taught us that mental health and wellbeing can be impacted unexpectedly and for many reasons. There was – and continues to be – a demand for mental health support among all age groups. The Australian government has responded by investing more in the mental health field which means qualified counsellors are in a great position to gain employment after graduation and provide that help.
What are some of the job opportunities or career paths for counsellors?
Now more than ever, there is a need for qualified counsellors in areas such as mental health and wellbeing, grief and loss, trauma, addiction and family and community services, within the public, private and not-for-profit sectors. Look at the jobs listed on the websites of our accrediting bodies, the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and the Australian Counselling Association (ACA). This will give you an idea of the scope of employment for counsellors.
Where can you study counselling at ACAP?
ACAP offers flexibility in the way you study and where you study. There is a mix of online learning and on-campus learning as you progress through your course. Each campus has facilities to support your learning as well as a range of online support services that ensure you feel part of a community of learning.
Are ACAP’s counselling courses accredited?
The Bachelor of Counselling, Graduate Diploma of Counselling and Master of Counselling and Psychotherapy are accredited with PACFA and ACA. The Bachelor of Counselling (minor in Coaching) is also accredited with the International Coaching Federation (ICF).
Who should study counselling?
If you’re motivated to empower others and make a positive difference in the lives of individuals, groups, or a community, this is a career for you. You get to work in an area that really interests you in a career where every day brings new challenges and achievements.