Everything you need to know about this course
1 Year (full-time)
AUD 26,104
February, May, September
Year 12 or equivalent + IELTS 6.0 (no band < 5.5)
IKON Instititute of Australia
Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, Brisbane
Looking to begin your journey in mental health care? The Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy in Australia offers a foundational pathway into the field, ideal for school leavers, career changers, or anyone passionate about helping others. This nationally recognised diploma of counselling and psychotherapy combines essential theory with hands-on experience.
Throughout the course, you'll explore core therapeutic models, mental health frameworks, and person-centred counselling approaches. You'll also build key interpersonal skills and develop your ethical and professional identity.
As one of the leading psychotherapy and counselling courses with placement opportunities, the program includes supervised clinical experience to ensure you graduate with the confidence to work in real-world settings.
This course is ideal for individuals who are:
No previous psychology or counselling background is required. Bring your empathy and passion—we'll help you build the knowledge, skills, and confidence to make a real difference.
Ready to begin your career in mental health? Start your Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy today and unlock a direct path into a rewarding career in psychotherapy.
Find answers to common questions about this course. We've compiled the most frequently asked questions to help you make an informed decision about your psychotherapy education journey. If you need more information, our admissions team is here to help.
This course is perfect for school leavers, career changers, or anyone passionate about helping others and entering the mental health or counselling profession.
No prior psychology background is required. The diploma is an entry-level qualification that provides foundational knowledge and skills in counselling and psychotherapy.
International students must be at least 18 years old, have completed Year 12 (or equivalent), and demonstrate English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in each band and 6.5 in Speaking).
You can work in support roles. To become a registered counsellor, you'll need further qualifications (e.g., bachelor's degree + ACA registration).
The Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy usually takes 12 months (1 year) of full-time study to complete.
Yes. The program includes supervised clinical placement where you'll apply counselling skills in real-life settings under professional guidance.
International students may study a portion of the course online (up to one-third), but face-to-face attendance is required, especially for placement. Domestic students may have more flexible online options.
Graduates can work as: Mental Health Support Workers, Counselling Assistants, Youth or Family Support Workers, Community or Case Support Workers (under supervision).
Yes, the Diploma of Counselling and Psychotherapy in Australia includes 120 hours of supervised clinical placement as part of the program.
Yes. After completing the diploma, you can pursue a Bachelor of Counselling and Psychotherapy, Social Work, or Psychology.
