What does a counsellor do?
Counsellors may choose to specialise in a specific field such as grief counselling, alcohol and drug rehabilitation or relationships. They provide information, support and therapy to their clients in order to help them deal with long- or short-term emotional issues. Working with their clients and other health professionals, they devise and implement a care plan, locate appropriate resources and provide emotional support.
Tasks:
- Completing client assessments
- Conducting individual or group therapy sessions
- Devising appropriate approaches to behavioural and emotional issues
- Provide referral to other services, such as rehabilitation or employment help
- Provide assistance in conflict resolution
What skills do I need to be a counsellor?
Choosing counselling as a profession will put you in contact with a wide variety of people under emotional stress. A caring and compassionate nature is an absolute prerequisite for this rewarding career, however it is also important to approach clients with professional objectivity. You must be methodical, logical, tactful and a great listener to excel as a counsellor.
- Excellent at listening and drawing out information
- Compassionate and understanding
- Able to maintain a professional objectivity
- Willing to work collaboratively to achieve client goals
- Able to maintain a calm, soothing manner
Specialisations
There are many varied paths that a counsellor can pursue in their professional life. You can choose to narrow your focus to working with a particular population group, defined by their gender, ability, religion or cultural background, work on a specific area of counselling, such as addition, relationships or grief.
Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Mediator
Family and Marriage Counsellor
Study pathways for counsellors
People from varied educational backgrounds are attracted to counselling as a profession, bringing with them insight and life experience. While qualifications are not required to become a counsellor, they are desirable.
Getting Started
Equip yourself with the tools and training to make the best start in your counselling career.
Skill Building
Add to your skills and experience to take your career to the next level.
Professional Development
Complete a professional qualification to boost your profile in the counselling industry.
Industry Recognition
Professional counselling associations may require you to have achieved a level of qualification in order to become a member. Find out more below.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your social work career. Take a look at our sample resume and cover letter and put your best foot forward when you apply for social work jobs.