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CHC51015

Diploma of Counselling

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Course Description

The CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively and compassionately support clients. You will learn how to communicate effectively, work within a case management framework, and refer clients to other services when necessary.

In this course, you will learn how to:

•    Apply core counselling methodologies to assist your clients.
•    Establish and maintain positive counselling relationships.
•    Communicate effectively with your clients and co-workers.
•    Work within a case management framework.

Studying Open Colleges’ CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling provides you with a great mix of theory and practice, ensures you get the most up-to-date training for in-demand treatment areas, and makes certain you are able to deal effectively with paperwork and case management.

Delivered by Open Colleges in partnership with industry leader Integrated Care & Management Training (ICMT), this course is perfect for caring individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in their clients’ lives.

This course is offered by Open Colleges on behalf of Integrated Care and Management Training.

Why study Diploma Of Counselling?

  • This nationally recognised qualification includes a practical work placement in a setting of your choosing, so you can practice and perfect what you learn.
  • For people wishing to pursue higher education, Open Colleges has formalised a pathway to tertiary study with Charles Sturt University and Southern Cross University, with credit transfers available for selected courses.
  • Credit towards registration (if applied for) with Australian Counselling Association (ACA.
This course involves work placement that currently needs to be undertaken in Australia. More information available in our FAQs

If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.

Potential career outcomes

  • Case Worker
  • Counsellor
  • Intake Counsellor

Course Details

Course number E1202
Qualification name CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling
Course duration Maximum 24 months
Delivery Method Online with Work Placement
Recognition Nationally Recognised Nationally Recognised Training
Assessments Case studies, Demonstrations, Knowledge tests, Portfolio of evidence, Presentations, Video, Workplace assessments, Written reports
Awarded by Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90197)

Requirements

Education

There are no formal education entry requirements for this course.

Minimum age

You will need to be at least 18 years old.

English

This course involves reading learning content and undertaking a range of written assessments and engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 12 level.

If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 12 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:

  • Successful completion of a Nationally Recognised Training qualification at Certificate III level or higher; or
  • 3 years relevant industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication.

Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided by Open Colleges.

Computing

Access to others

This course includes a requirement to record video and/ or audio roleplays. These will require participation by 1-2 other people sourced by you.

Tools and equipment

You will need to purchase specific tools and equipment for this course. Click here to view the complete list of materials, equipment and tools required for this course. IT Requirements It is recommended that students have the following hardware and additional software:

  • Operating System:
    • Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 10 recommended)
    • Mac OS 10.11 (El Capitan) or higher Note: (Microsoft Office 365 can only guarantee support on the current release of Mac OS, plus two previous versions. Older versions may work but may have issues)
  • Processor: 2 GHz or faster, 2-core
  • Memory: 8GB of RAM or higher z916GB recommended)
  • Hard Drive: Space 2 GB free disk space
  • Browser: Chrome is the preferred browser for students
  • Windows users:
  • Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 10 recommended)
  • 1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
  • Software:
    • Acrobat Reader
    • Microsoft Office 2017 or later (including MS Office 365). Note: if using an equivalent office software (such as Open Office or Apple Pages etc), ensure that documents can be formatted correctly and exported to common file formats
    • Audio recording Software (Voice recorder app, Garageband, or Audacity)
    • Video editing software (iMovie, Video Editor app)
    • File compression software
  • Internet Connection: DSL, Cable, or Satellite with at least 2mbps upload speed Note: it is strongly recommended that you have access to the Internet from home. Expecting to access your course from your work internet or a public network like a library or coffee shop may be impractical due to your average weekly study hours.
  • Printer/Scanner: Access to printing/scanning devices or facilities may be required for certain course activities
  • Peripherals:
    • 1280 x 800 display (1280 x 1024 recommended) with 16-bit colour and 512 MB of V RAM
    • Speakers or headset for audio playback
    • Microphone for audio recording
    • Webcam or equivalent (such as a smartphone with video recording capability)
  • E-Mail Capability: Access to e-mail through an e-mail program or web-based e-mail system (e.g., Gmail, Hotmail, Mail for Android or Mail for iOS apps)

Skills

To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:

  • Creating, saving and editing Microsoft Office documents.
  • Accessing and searching the internet.
  • Downloading and saving documents from websites.
  • Uploading documents through websites.
  • Participating in online discussions.
  • Compressing image files.
  • Connecting digital cameras and downloading and storing images.

Physical requirements

The Counselling role demands prioritising situations and managing time. As a counsellor, you may experience stress and stress related symptoms due to interacting with clients in crisis. You will also be responsible for your own safety, as well as the safety of others.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy

Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.

Subjects

Once you are enrolled in this course, you will receive access to the first Module, which contains the first set of units for the course. When you have successfully completed those units, you'll be given access to the next Module. 

Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.

Provide intake counselling legally and ethically

  • Use a structured approach to counselling
  • Establish the nature of the helping relationship
  • Confirm the helping relationship
  • Identify and respond to legal requirements
  • Identify and meet ethical responsibilities
  • Contribute to workplace improvements

Working with diversity

  • Reflect on own perspectives
  • Appreciate diversity and inclusiveness, and their benefits
  • Communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and situations
  • Promote understanding across diverse groups
  • Identify cultural safety issues in the workplace
  • Model cultural safety in own work
  • Develop strategies for improved cultural safety
  • Evaluate cultural safety strategies

Build the relationship with the client

Therapy covered in this module: Person Centered Therapy

  • Communicate effectively
  • Use specialised counselling interviewing skills
  • Evaluate own communication
  • Support clients to identify concerns
  • Support clients to work through concerns
  • Monitor the counselling process
  • Bring the counselling process to an end

Research and apply counselling theories

Therapy covered in this module: Solution Focused Therapy

  • Research theories of personality and human development
  • Link theories to own practice
  • Update and maintain knowledge of theoretical trends
  • Research learning theories
  • Analyse behavioural outcomes of different modelling and reinforcement influences
  • Formulate a program for change in a counselling context

Use counselling therapies to support people experiencing loss and grief

Therapies covered in this module: Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Person Centered Therapy

  • Select counselling therapies
  • Use counselling therapies
  • Evaluate use of counselling therapies
  • Recognise reactions to loss and grief
  • Engage empathically
  • Offer support and information
  • Care for self
  • Review support provided

Manage case plans for the delivery of problem gambling services

Therapy covered in this module: Narrative Therapy

  • Determine appropriate response to case management in accordance with organisation and legislative requirements
  • Conduct case management meetings
  • Develop an appropriate case management plan
  • Monitor and review case work activities and processes
  • Prepare for assessment
  • Conduct assessment
  • Develop a case plan with the client
  • Refer clients

Support victims of domestic violence

Therapy covered in this module: Acceptance Commitment Therapy

  • Identify imminent crisis situations
  • Address immediate safety concerns
  • Provide referral for crisis intervention support
  • Care for self
  • Adopt work practices that support interactions with those affected by domestic and family violence
  • Identify client needs
  • Respond to client needs

Support people with mental health issues

Therapies covered in this module: Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

  • Assist clients to clarify goals and requirements
  • Explore options with clients
  • Support client to reach decisions
  • Establish respectful relationships with people with mental health issues
  • Determine the needs of people with mental health issues
  • Work with people with mental health issues to meet aspirations and needs

Reflect on and improve own practices

  • Reflect on own practice
  • Enhance own practice
  • Facilitate ongoing professional development

Payment Options

Pay in Full

You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).

Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo

You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan.  When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).

Payment Plan

You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.

BPAY®

With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more. 

BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.

Trainers

Sherry Davies

Sherry comes to Open Colleges with over 8 years of experience in training and assessment. She has formal qualifications in Education, Psychology, Gender & Cultural Studies, and Counselling. She has worked in prisons, with international students, new business owners and in Aboriginal health organisations. Sherry has a gift for taking complex ideas and making them easy to understand. Originally from WA, Sherry now resides in Victoria.

Work Placement

The course contains a minimum of 160 hours of work placement

You will need to secure your own Work Placement, however Open Colleges can provide advice and direction through our Work Placement Support Team.

There are a number of statutory checks that may be required by workplaces, such as a National Police Check, Working with Children Check (or state equivalent), a First Aid Certificate and signing of a Confidentiality Agreement and Code of Conduct. These may vary by state. In addition, individual workplaces may impose additional requirements on students undertaking work placement. You will be responsible for the costs of any such checks or requirements.

Your work placement will need to be completed in Australia, and you will be responsible for the costs of any travel, accommodation, statutory checks or other requirements related to your work placement.

Cost of work placement

All costs of work placement including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or OC), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation and uniforms are the responsibility of the student.

Partnership Details

Open Colleges offers this qualification in association with Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90197). The testamur will be issued by Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd.

SAVE FROM 35% OFF

Selected course fees when you pay upfront.

Voucher code: 35MARCH26

Offer ends on Sunday 26th March 2023 at 11:59pm AEST.

*Terms & conditions

Course at a Glance

Become a professional Counsellor by learning valuable and effective therapy techniques to make a real difference in people’s lives with the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling.

icon for career outcomes

Career Outcomes

  • checkCase Worker
  • checkCounsellor
  • checkIntake Counsellor
computer

Delivery Method

Online with Work Placement

credit_score

Payment

Flexible payment options available

Recognition

Nationally recognised

Nationally Recognised Training

Why study with us?

  • Study at your pace
  • Flexible payment options
  • Nationally recognised accreditation
  • World-class learning platform

Course at a Glance

Become a professional Counsellor by learning valuable and effective therapy techniques to make a real difference in people’s lives with the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling.

icon for career outcomes

Career Outcomes

  • checkCase Worker
  • checkCounsellor
  • checkIntake Counsellor
computer

Delivery Method

Online with Work Placement

credit_score

Payment

Flexible payment options available

Recognition

Nationally recognised

Nationally Recognised Training

SAVE FROM 35% OFF

Selected course fees when you pay upfront.

Voucher code: 35MARCH26

Offer ends on Sunday 26th March 2023 at 11:59pm AEST.

*Terms & conditions

The CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling will provide you with the essential knowledge and skills to effectively and compassionately support clients. You will learn how to communicate effectively, work within a case management framework, and refer clients to other services when necessary.

In this course, you will learn how to:

•    Apply core counselling methodologies to assist your clients.
•    Establish and maintain positive counselling relationships.
•    Communicate effectively with your clients and co-workers.
•    Work within a case management framework.

Studying Open Colleges’ CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling provides you with a great mix of theory and practice, ensures you get the most up-to-date training for in-demand treatment areas, and makes certain you are able to deal effectively with paperwork and case management.

Delivered by Open Colleges in partnership with industry leader Integrated Care & Management Training (ICMT), this course is perfect for caring individuals who want to make a meaningful difference in their clients’ lives.

This course is offered by Open Colleges on behalf of Integrated Care and Management Training.

Why study Diploma Of Counselling?

  • This nationally recognised qualification includes a practical work placement in a setting of your choosing, so you can practice and perfect what you learn.
  • For people wishing to pursue higher education, Open Colleges has formalised a pathway to tertiary study with Charles Sturt University and Southern Cross University, with credit transfers available for selected courses.
  • Credit towards registration (if applied for) with Australian Counselling Association (ACA.
This course involves work placement that currently needs to be undertaken in Australia. More information available in our FAQs

If you are an existing worker or have experience in the related industry, please inform our enrolment consultants during your enrolment conversation. You may be eligible to enrol as an existing worker and complete your studies faster. Please note - limitations do apply.

Potential career outcomes

  • Case Worker
  • Counsellor
  • Intake Counsellor
Course number E1202
Qualification name CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling
Course duration Maximum 24 months
Delivery Method Online with Work Placement
Recognition Nationally Recognised Nationally Recognised Training
Assessments Case studies, Demonstrations, Knowledge tests, Portfolio of evidence, Presentations, Video, Workplace assessments, Written reports
Awarded by Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90197)

Education

There are no formal education entry requirements for this course.

Minimum age

You will need to be at least 18 years old.

English

This course involves reading learning content and undertaking a range of written assessments and engaging in online forums and discussions. Furthermore, the delivery mode relies on the extensive use of written communication. As such, entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 12 level.

If you haven't successfully completed English at Year 12 level, you can demonstrate equivalency through one of the following:

  • Successful completion of a Nationally Recognised Training qualification at Certificate III level or higher; or
  • 3 years relevant industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication.

Open Colleges recognises that not all people are able to read, write and perform calculations to the same standard. See the Language, Literacy and Numeracy Considerations section for more information on tools, resources and support services provided by Open Colleges.

Computing

Access to others

This course includes a requirement to record video and/ or audio roleplays. These will require participation by 1-2 other people sourced by you.

Tools and equipment

You will need to purchase specific tools and equipment for this course. Click here to view the complete list of materials, equipment and tools required for this course. IT Requirements It is recommended that students have the following hardware and additional software:

  • Operating System:
    • Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 10 recommended)
    • Mac OS 10.11 (El Capitan) or higher Note: (Microsoft Office 365 can only guarantee support on the current release of Mac OS, plus two previous versions. Older versions may work but may have issues)
  • Processor: 2 GHz or faster, 2-core
  • Memory: 8GB of RAM or higher z916GB recommended)
  • Hard Drive: Space 2 GB free disk space
  • Browser: Chrome is the preferred browser for students
  • Windows users:
  • Microsoft Windows 7 or higher (Windows 10 recommended)
  • 1 Ghz or faster processer (2GHz recommended)
  • Software:
    • Acrobat Reader
    • Microsoft Office 2017 or later (including MS Office 365). Note: if using an equivalent office software (such as Open Office or Apple Pages etc), ensure that documents can be formatted correctly and exported to common file formats
    • Audio recording Software (Voice recorder app, Garageband, or Audacity)
    • Video editing software (iMovie, Video Editor app)
    • File compression software
  • Internet Connection: DSL, Cable, or Satellite with at least 2mbps upload speed Note: it is strongly recommended that you have access to the Internet from home. Expecting to access your course from your work internet or a public network like a library or coffee shop may be impractical due to your average weekly study hours.
  • Printer/Scanner: Access to printing/scanning devices or facilities may be required for certain course activities
  • Peripherals:
    • 1280 x 800 display (1280 x 1024 recommended) with 16-bit colour and 512 MB of V RAM
    • Speakers or headset for audio playback
    • Microphone for audio recording
    • Webcam or equivalent (such as a smartphone with video recording capability)
  • E-Mail Capability: Access to e-mail through an e-mail program or web-based e-mail system (e.g., Gmail, Hotmail, Mail for Android or Mail for iOS apps)

Skills

To successfully complete this course, you will require basic computing skills. This includes:

  • Creating, saving and editing Microsoft Office documents.
  • Accessing and searching the internet.
  • Downloading and saving documents from websites.
  • Uploading documents through websites.
  • Participating in online discussions.
  • Compressing image files.
  • Connecting digital cameras and downloading and storing images.

Physical requirements

The Counselling role demands prioritising situations and managing time. As a counsellor, you may experience stress and stress related symptoms due to interacting with clients in crisis. You will also be responsible for your own safety, as well as the safety of others.

Language, Literacy and Numeracy

Our free online assessment tool can help give you an idea of the language, literacy and numeracy skills needed to study a VET course. This tool can also help you determine your learning level and help you plan your future studies. You can access the Language, Literacy and Numeracy tool here.

Once you are enrolled in this course, you will receive access to the first Module, which contains the first set of units for the course. When you have successfully completed those units, you'll be given access to the next Module. 

Open Colleges may make changes to the course from time to time to reflect changes introduced to the relevant Training Package or other regulatory requirements. Please download the course guide for current information about the course and its status.

Provide intake counselling legally and ethically

  • Use a structured approach to counselling
  • Establish the nature of the helping relationship
  • Confirm the helping relationship
  • Identify and respond to legal requirements
  • Identify and meet ethical responsibilities
  • Contribute to workplace improvements

Working with diversity

  • Reflect on own perspectives
  • Appreciate diversity and inclusiveness, and their benefits
  • Communicate with people from diverse backgrounds and situations
  • Promote understanding across diverse groups
  • Identify cultural safety issues in the workplace
  • Model cultural safety in own work
  • Develop strategies for improved cultural safety
  • Evaluate cultural safety strategies

Build the relationship with the client

Therapy covered in this module: Person Centered Therapy

  • Communicate effectively
  • Use specialised counselling interviewing skills
  • Evaluate own communication
  • Support clients to identify concerns
  • Support clients to work through concerns
  • Monitor the counselling process
  • Bring the counselling process to an end

Research and apply counselling theories

Therapy covered in this module: Solution Focused Therapy

  • Research theories of personality and human development
  • Link theories to own practice
  • Update and maintain knowledge of theoretical trends
  • Research learning theories
  • Analyse behavioural outcomes of different modelling and reinforcement influences
  • Formulate a program for change in a counselling context

Use counselling therapies to support people experiencing loss and grief

Therapies covered in this module: Gestalt Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Person Centered Therapy

  • Select counselling therapies
  • Use counselling therapies
  • Evaluate use of counselling therapies
  • Recognise reactions to loss and grief
  • Engage empathically
  • Offer support and information
  • Care for self
  • Review support provided

Manage case plans for the delivery of problem gambling services

Therapy covered in this module: Narrative Therapy

  • Determine appropriate response to case management in accordance with organisation and legislative requirements
  • Conduct case management meetings
  • Develop an appropriate case management plan
  • Monitor and review case work activities and processes
  • Prepare for assessment
  • Conduct assessment
  • Develop a case plan with the client
  • Refer clients

Support victims of domestic violence

Therapy covered in this module: Acceptance Commitment Therapy

  • Identify imminent crisis situations
  • Address immediate safety concerns
  • Provide referral for crisis intervention support
  • Care for self
  • Adopt work practices that support interactions with those affected by domestic and family violence
  • Identify client needs
  • Respond to client needs

Support people with mental health issues

Therapies covered in this module: Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

  • Assist clients to clarify goals and requirements
  • Explore options with clients
  • Support client to reach decisions
  • Establish respectful relationships with people with mental health issues
  • Determine the needs of people with mental health issues
  • Work with people with mental health issues to meet aspirations and needs

Reflect on and improve own practices

  • Reflect on own practice
  • Enhance own practice
  • Facilitate ongoing professional development

Pay in Full

You can choose to pay your course fees in full upon enrolment and benefit from a 10% discount (unless otherwise advertised).

Pay 50% & Payment Plan Combo

You can also choose to pay 50% of your total course fees upon enrolment and the balance on a Payment Plan.  When you do, you’ll benefit from 50% of the standard Pay in Full discount (unless otherwise advertised).

Payment Plan

You can choose to pay for your course in weekly or fortnightly instalments. By paying in instalments, you can schedule your payments around your regular outgoings and get ahead without breaking the bank. Open Colleges payment plans are interest-free.

BPAY®

With BPAY®, you’re able to pay quickly and securely, 24/7 through your internet, mobile or phone banking service. You can choose when, how much and from which account to pay from - whatever works for you. BPAY® is only available when paying in full. Call an Enrolment Consultant to find out more. 

BPAY® is a trademark of BPAY Pty Ltd ABN 69 079 137 518. Check if BPAY® is right for you by reading the terms and conditions available from your Financial Institution.

Sherry Davies

Sherry comes to Open Colleges with over 8 years of experience in training and assessment. She has formal qualifications in Education, Psychology, Gender & Cultural Studies, and Counselling. She has worked in prisons, with international students, new business owners and in Aboriginal health organisations. Sherry has a gift for taking complex ideas and making them easy to understand. Originally from WA, Sherry now resides in Victoria.

The course contains a minimum of 160 hours of work placement

You will need to secure your own Work Placement, however Open Colleges can provide advice and direction through our Work Placement Support Team.

There are a number of statutory checks that may be required by workplaces, such as a National Police Check, Working with Children Check (or state equivalent), a First Aid Certificate and signing of a Confidentiality Agreement and Code of Conduct. These may vary by state. In addition, individual workplaces may impose additional requirements on students undertaking work placement. You will be responsible for the costs of any such checks or requirements.

Your work placement will need to be completed in Australia, and you will be responsible for the costs of any travel, accommodation, statutory checks or other requirements related to your work placement.

Cost of work placement

All costs of work placement including any placement fees charged by the host organisation (whether to the student or OC), cost of statutory checks and vaccinations, travel, accommodation and uniforms are the responsibility of the student.

Open Colleges offers this qualification in association with Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd (Provider number: 90197). The testamur will be issued by Integrated Care & Management Training Pty Ltd.
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