Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best online counselling course to study?
There's no single best online counselling course, since the right fit depends on your goals and current qualifications. Options range from a Certificate IV in Mental Health for those starting out, through to a Master of Counselling for advanced or clinical practice. Bachelor and Graduate Diploma options sit in between, covering areas like relationship counselling and behaviour therapy. Comparing course structure, provider and outcome is more useful than looking for one universal best.
Can you do a counselling degree fully online?
Yes, a counselling degree can be studied online, including options like the Bachelor of Counselling and Master of Counselling. Most online counselling programs use online delivery, and some, such as the Bachelor of Social Work, use a blended mode with added components. Universities and RTOs both offer online study paths, so flexibility exists at multiple qualification levels.
What is the quickest online counselling course to complete?
The Graduate Certificate in Mental Health from La Trobe University is one of the shorter options, taking around four months full-time. Short courses, like a Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner course, can take as little as seven days. Longer qualifications, such as a Master's Degree, typically take up to two years part-time or longer, so course length depends heavily on the level you choose.
Do you need a degree to start studying counselling online?
No, you don't need an existing degree to start, since entry-level options like the Certificate IV in Mental Health or a Diploma of Counselling are available online. These qualifications can build a foundation before progressing to a Bachelor's or Master's Degree later. Entry requirements vary by provider, so it's worth checking specifics on a course like the Diploma of Counselling.
How much can you earn after finishing an online counselling course?
Pay after completing an online counselling course varies by state, experience and setting, along with the qualification level reached. A typical counsellor salary in Australia is reported around AU$70,000 a year according to PayScale Australia, though this can shift with specialisation. Graduates from these programs often move into counselling, psychology or mental health support roles.