CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling



Become A Qualified Counsellor
With Our IAC & ACA-Accredited Diploma.

Seek Employment or Start A Private
Practice & Positively Impact Lives.
No Work Placement.
Study 100% Online Over 1-2 years.


From $3,480 upfront or
from $70/FN* on a 36-month
interest-free plan & no deposit.
Expires 30.6.26.

(Normally $6998) *Tncs apply

DOWNLOAD COURSE OUTLINE
graduation-student-black-cap

100% ELEARNING WITH STUDENT SUPPORT

  • Start a new career in a growing field with a predicted growth rate of 15.1% by 2028
  • You are safe to enrol in this course as it aligns with the industry standards & helps get you started!
  • Learn critical counselling skills & additional systemic techniques 
  • Up to 24 months to complete
  • Self-paced from any device or  location

  • Unprecedented Student Support - quick 1-hour turnaround times
  • Access to fellow students
  • No exams - ever! 
  • NO work placement-required
  • 100% online with digital resources

logo-white-1

GOVERNMENT ACCREDITED & ACA ACCREDITED

  • A government-accredited course & government qualification
  • Study with a safe, industry-leading RTO
  • Learn with industry-leading facilitators - live & interactive
  • 13 core units & your choice of 4 elective units
  • Choose a mental health, grief & loss or hypnosis specialisation. 
  • No set assessment due dates
  • Live & facilitated study support groups
  • 100 hours of practical included
  • Become a capable, confident, qualified & safe Counsellor

  • Flexible online study to suit you
  • Access to IAP's knowledge base
Pin

COURSE OUTCOMES AND INCLUSIONS

  • Potential outcomes: Counsellor, Case Manager/Worker, or you could start your private practice
  • Ability to apply to join the ACA as a full-level 1 member
  • Ability to join the IAC - the global peak body 
  • Mental Health Support with free EAP counselling sessions.

  • Live & facilitated 3-hour monthly group practice sessions
  • 12 bonus live & facilitated topical masterclasses - live or recorded
  • Specialisation options that are on your official diploma & could help with NDIS work






  • Direct entry into an AQF Level 8 - CHC81015 Graduate Diploma 

Recognition & Associations

Vet-Logo-white-1
ACA Accredited Training Logo_wht
ACCA-white
CPCA-white
ISPA-Accredited-TALL-white (1)
approved_2023_portrait_white
IAC_Ed_Institute_Member-white
HCA LOGO Central White
Accredited-Education-Provider-logo-white

WHO SHOULD STUDY THIS COURSE?

Our ACA-recognised Diploma of Counselling gives you the skills, confidence, and nationally recognised qualification to support others through life’s challenges as a safe, capable, and compassionate counsellor.

This course is designed for:

  • Those ready for a change — people who want to move into a meaningful new career helping others.
  • Professionals wanting flexibility — whether you’re in education, HR, healthcare or another field, and want to build your own private practice or bring counselling into your existing role.
  • Therapists, medical, and allied health practitioners looking to deepen their skill set and create more impact for clients.
  • People with life experience who feel drawn to turn that understanding into something that truly helps others.
  • Anyone seeking a career with purpose — where empathy, communication and human connection are at the heart of the work.
  • Learners who value flexibility, with no compulsory work placement required — so you can study in a way that fits your life.
  • Allied health professionals and carers, including nurses, social workers, and support workers, who want to expand their therapeutic communication skills and better support clients’ emotional wellbeing

CAREER OUTCOMES

This nationally recognised qualification is designed to help you move become a counsellor or working with counselling skills in roles such as:

  • Counsellor
  • Case Manager / Worker
  • Support Worker
  • Rehab counsellor
  • Or, look at moving into your own counselling practice

 

STAND OUT WITH OUR COUNSELLING & CLINICAL HYPNOSIS TRAINING

What sets IAP apart is not just our dedication to world-class practical and relevant education and training, but your Diploma can include training in the modality of Clinical Hypnosis - something you can only do with us.

13 core units included are:
  • CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
  • CHCCSL001 Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
  • CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills 
  • CHCCSL003 Facilitate the counselling relationship and process
  • CHCCSL004 Research and apply personality and development theories
  • CHCCSL005 Apply learning theories in counselling
  • CHCCSL006 Select and use counselling therapies
  • CHCCSL007 Support counselling clients in decision-making processes
  • CHCCSM005 Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management
  • CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people
  • CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety 
  • CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically
  • CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice 



You can complete the standard CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling electives, OR you can choose a mental health specialisation, a grief and loss specialisation, or choose a unique specialisation in clinical hypnosis that will be featured on your diploma,  as follows:

  • CHCCCS014 Provide brief interventions
  • CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support
  • CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues
  • CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
  • NAT11271001 Work within a clinical hypnosis framework
  • CHCFAM003 Support people to improve relationships

Why Study This Diploma?

At IAP, we teach a nationally accredited CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling.

Our ACA-Accredited and recognised diploma will equip you with the tools and qualifications to help you fulfil your desire to assist people with the daily challenges of living.

So, if you are 21 or older and like most people who are looking to become a qualified counsellor and:
1. You want to help create a positive change
2. You seek meaningful work
3. You seek flexibility in your career
4. You can see a solid future as a Counsellor
5. You want to work in a field where life experience is valued
6.  You have a strong desire to help people of all walks of life
7. You know and are told you are a good listener
8. You wish to be in a career with purpose
9. You want to acquire counselling skills 
10. You need flexible study arrangements to balance with your current job

Then... you too can join 1000s of others just like you who learn how to develop the ability to make a real difference in people's lives.

Our aim is to make our CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling the best investment you ever make in yourself and your future as an up-and-coming qualified Counsellor. 

COURSE QUICK FACTS

 

1-Jun-19-2023-07-16-58-9283-AM

Duration

up to 24 months

 

4-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0069-AM

Dates

Enrol now

5-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0240-AM

Commitment

10 hours a week (average)

 

8-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0695-AM

Access

From any device

 

2-Jun-19-2023-07-16-58-9832-AM

Pre-requisites

Selection criteria applies

 

3-Jun-19-2023-07-16-58-9888-AM

Assessments

5 types of assessments

 

6-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0623-AM

Delivery Mode

100% Online. Never alone with a combination of methods such as eLearning, assessments, live & interactive online webinars.

 

7-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0630-AM

Payment Options

Upfront or up to 36-months interest free*

 

9-Jun-19-2023-07-16-59-0776-AM

Outcomes & Recognitions

Government accredited Diploma; The Australian Counselling Association (ACA), IAC, ACCA, CPCA, HHA and IICT. 

 
question-sign

QUESTIONS

Book a meeting, call and speak to one of our consultants on 1300 915 497.

quality

OUR GUARANTEE

If life gets in the way and you cannot complete, you can defer for up to 12 months. You may also get credits towards the full diploma for units you have completed. It couldn’t be easier.
contract

CERTIFICATION

Upon satisfactory completion of all requirements, you will be awarded a nationally recognised CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling.

WHY CHOOSE TO STUDY WITH IAP?

IAP differs from others in the market because we specialise in offering you a personalised learning experience tailored to your learning needs. We focus on enabling you, by providing the tools and techniques to help you develop skills in counselling.

If you desire to help people and make a difference in their lives, this course is for you!

STUDENT SUPPORT

2-Mar-16-2023-12-17-46-2333-AM

39,152

Annual Number of Real Student Support Conversations
1-Mar-16-2023-12-17-46-1223-AM
94%
Annual Avg Student Support Happiness Score

icons for happiness section on LP (1)

1 Hour

Average response time to general student enquiries

ENROL NOW & SECURE OUR EOFY OFFER

col1-eofy (1)

 
col2-gabor (1)

 

col3-bonuses (1)

 

HOW YOU CAN ENROL & START NOW IN OUR
CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling

We have a range of payment methods that include upfront and up to 30-month interest-free* options. (Tncs apply)

STANDARD COURSE
UPFRONT INVESTMENT

WAS $6998

$3,480*

Upfront Investment
(*Strictly ends 30.6.2026)
tncs apply.
$6,998 Regular Price

* Domestic pricing is listed for upfront payments.
* Offshore students pricing differs.

Study all 13 core units and the standard course group of electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

Flexible study options perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

STANDARD COURSE
36* MONTHS INTEREST FREE PLAN REQUEST

WAS $6998

NOW from $58/fortnight*

Payment Plan Investment
(*Strictly ends 30.6.2026)
tncs apply.
$6,998 Regular Price

* Domestic pricing is listed for payment plans.
* Offshore students pricing differs.

Study 13 core units, and the standard course electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

Flexible study options perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

CLINICAL HYPNOSIS SPECIALITY
UPFRONT

WAS $11,797

$6,980*

UPFRONT INVESTMENT
(*Limited time)
tncs apply.
$11,797 Regular Price

*Pricing listed is for upfront payments.

Study all 13 core units and Stream B group of electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

With Stream B, you'll also be 1/3 of your way to a 10791NAT Diploma of Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy.

Flexible study options perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

Speak to one of our consultants about our early bird pricing for enrolling into our CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling .

Enrol by clicking the button below.

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

CLINICAL HYPNOSIS SPECIALITY - PAYMENT PLAN REQUEST

WAS $11,797

NOW $7,980*

PAYMENT PLAN INVESTMENT
(*Limited time)
tncs apply.
$11,797 Regular Price

*Pricing listed is for upfront payments.

Study all 13 core units and Stream B group of electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

With Stream B, you'll also be 1/3 of your way to a 10791NAT Diploma of Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy.

Flexible study options perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

Speak to one of our consultants about our early bird pricing for enrolling into our CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling .

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

CLINICAL HYPNOSIS SPECIALTY
UPFRONT

WAS $11,798

$6,499*

UPFRONT INVESTMENT
(*Strictly ends 31.5.2026)
$11,798 Regular Price

* Domestic pricing listed is for upfront payments.
* Offshore students pricing differs.

 

Study all 13 core units and the Clinical Hypnosis Speciality group of electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

With the Clinical Hypnosis Speciality, you'll also be 1/2 of your way to a 11271NAT Diploma of Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy.

Flexible study options are perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

 

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

CLINICAL HYPNOSIS SPECIALTY
PAYMENT PLAN REQUEST

WAS $11,798

NOW $7,499*

PAYMENT PLAN INVESTMENT
(*Strictly ends 31.5.2026)
$11,798 Regular Price

* Domestic pricing listed is for upfront payments.
* Offshore students pricing differs.

 

Study all 13 core units and the Clinical Hypnosis Speciality group of electives online in this self-paced course and work towards your qualification as a Counsellor.

With the Clinical Hypnosis Speciality, you'll also be 1/2 of your way to a 11271NAT Diploma of Clinical Hypnosis and Strategic Psychotherapy.

Flexible study options are perfect for the busy professional who wants to learn from some of the best.

ENROL TODAY Request a callback

No video selected

Select a video type in the sidebar.

About This Certification Course

If you have a desire to help people and make a difference in their lives, this course is for you!


The world is changing rapidly. By 2025, 40% of current Australian jobs will be lost to overseas or technology*, and you may have noticed that it has already started. As a [NLP Expert or Coach], you can help people adjust to the uncertainties ahead and help manage their fears and anxieties.


This course is the first step in completing both
IAP Diplomas:
Diploma of NLP & Strategic Coaching
Diploma of NLP Leadership & Coaching

Next course is the:
NLP Master Practitioner Certification

ASSOCIATIONS

IAC Ed Institute

TESTIMONIALS

CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling

Course FAQ’S & Details

  1. This course is suitable for those considering a career change, looking to add therapeutic skills and/or to become a qualified counsellor and help people. These may include:
    1. Individuals wishing to change careers or enter into a new career OR
    2. Existing workers who have over 5 years work experience in any field and wish to upgrade their skills and knowledge into a new and/or existing industry sector OR
    3. Existing workers who wish to have their current skills and knowledge recognised
  2. This course is delivered online to students across Australia and the globe. Training will be delivered online using interactive platforms and utilities (Zoom).
    • The 12 live topical sessions are delivered via zoom
    • Self-paced - Typically up to 15 hours a week over 24 months. Note: Students will be required to complete activities in their own time and will be required to manage their own study.
  3. This course requires the following to be enrolled:
    • Year 12 or equivalent
    • Minimum age of 21.
      Note: Applicants are accepted for 18+ subject to an entrance interview.
    • 5 years of post-secondary school work experience in any field.
    • If there is no Certificate IV (any) previously completed, you may have to complete an LLN Assessment.
    • You complete the Core Skills Profile for Adults online assessment passing at or above Exit Level 3 in the Australian Core Skills Framework in both reading and numeracy. IAP must also reasonably believe that the student displays that competence.

  4. We offer a range of payment methods, including upfront, interest-free options over 30-36 months on Humm or Zip Money. (Terms apply) 

  5. Upon graduation of this course, you will receive a digital and hard copy of the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling within 4 weeks of graduating.
  6. This course is nationally-accredited by The Australian Skills Quality Agency (ASQA)
    This course is recognised by the following associations:
    • ACA - The Australian Counselling Association (Peak Body)
    • IAC - The International Association of Counsellors (International Peak Body)
    • ACCA - Australian Community Counselling Association
    • CPCA - Certified Practising Counsellors Australia
    • HCA - Hypnotherapy Council of Australia (Peak Body) - with our Certificate of Clinical Hypnosis or Hypnosis Specialisation
    • ISPA - The International Strategic Psychotherapy Association
    • IICT - International Institute of Complementary Therapists
    • HHA - Holistic Health Associations International
  7. All students have up to 24 months to complete this course from the date of enrolment.
  8. The diploma includes the following units:
    • CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
    • CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically
    • CHCPRP003 Reflect on and improve own professional practice
    • CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations
    • CHCCSL001 Establish and confirm the counselling relationship
    • CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills
    • CHCCSL003 Facilitate the counselling relationship and process
    • CHCCSL004 Research and apply personality and development theories
    • CHCCSL005 Apply learning theories in counselling
    • CHCCSL006 Select and use counselling therapies
    • CHCCSL007 Support counselling clients in decision-making processes
    • CHCCSM005 Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management
    • CHCDIV001 Work with diverse peopleSTANDARD ELECTIVES  - CHOOSE 4
    • CHCCCS014 Provide brief interventions
    • CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support
    • CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues
    • CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
    • DCHHYP501 Work within a clinical hypnosis framework
    • CHCFAM003 Support people to improve relationships
    If you would like to choose a specialisation to replace the standard electives, you can do so from one of the 3 listed specialisations. Please note that you will choose the whole block of 4 units.Grief and Loss Specialisation
    • CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support
    • CHCCCS018 Provide suicide bereavement support
    • CHCCCS003 Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
    • CHCMHS007 Work effectively in trauma informed careMental Health Specialisation
    • CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues
    • CHCMHS005 Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues
    • CHCMHS007 Work effectively in trauma informed care
    • CHCMHS011 Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeingClinical Hypnosis Specialisation (*Additional costs apply)
    • NAT11271001 Work within a clinical hypnosis framework
    • NAT11271002 Prepare for clinical hypnosis sessi
    • NAT11271003 Provide clinical hypnosis session
    • NAT11271004 Monitor and evaluate clinical hypnosis interventions
    *Additional fees are payable if the Clinical Hypnosis specialisation electives are chosen, due to the units costing more than CHC units, and the need to attend 4 days of practical sessions (please see pricing below). *Students choosing the Clinical Hypnosis specialisation will need to attend a 4 day Clinical Hypnosis 

  9. Domestic Standard Tuition is $6,997. You can call us on 1300 915 497 for any current campaigns.

    International Offshore Standard Tuition is $13,994.

    Pre-Paid fees paid by students are protected under clause 7.3 of the Standards for RTOs 2015 through a Bank Guarantee held by IAP.

    RPL is available. A non-refundable assessment fee of $500 for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is required at the time of submission of your completed RPL application. Please note that there are no reductions in fees or refunds for any units awarded through the RPL process.

  10. When you join IAP, you join a community of like-minded peers and receive the highest quality of live student support. We offer you the following:
    • Phone and email student support access and support
    • IAP Knowledge Base
    • Weekly study support groups
    • Monthly playdates (practice sessions)
    • Student community networking engagement platform
  11. Different units will require the completion of different assessments across the course. These include:
     
    • Observation/Practical skills
    • Written responses
    • Third party reports
    • Case studies
    • Simulated / Role Plays
     
    NOTE: MANDATORY ASSESSMENT REQUIREMENTFor the performance assessments in the following units, students MUST have their mock clients physically present in the room during the recorded assessment session. This is a non-negotiable ASQA requirement.
     
    Units requiring physical presence of mock clients:
     
    • CHCCSL001 Establish and maintain the counselling relationship
    • CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills
    • CHCCSL003 Facilitate the counselling relationship and process
    • CHCCSL004 Research and apply personality and development theories
    • CHCCSL005 Apply learning theories in counselling
    • CHCCSL006 Select and use counselling therapies
     
    If you are unable to arrange for mock clients to be physically present with you during your assessment recordings, you should NOT enrol in this course. Remote or virtual participation by mock clients is not acceptable.
Download Course Outline

COURSE PATHWAY

This course is a main pre-requisite and pathway to our CHC81015 Graduate Diploma of Relationship Counselling.

CHC81015 Graduate Diploma of Relationship Counselling
CHC81015 Graduate Diploma of Relationship Counselling