Admission Criteria Expand Entrance into the Masters of Counselling and Psychotherapy requires: An Australian Bachelor degree (AQF 7) in a related discipline (teaching, social work, social sciences, psychology, counselling or similar) with at least a 70% average marks. Prospective students wishing to enrol into the Master course who have an Australian Bachelor degree in a non-relevant discipline are encouraged to enrol in the Graduate Diploma level to assess their suitability. They may be required to undertake The Cairnmillar Institute’s Counselling Skills Foundational and Intermediate short courses prior to the enrolment. To apply: Prospective students are required to submit an application through the Apply Now page, with certified copies of the following supporting documentation: Most recent academic transcripts A current curriculum vitae A 500 word personal statement outlining the reasons for wanting to undertake the course Proof of residency/citizenship (e.g. passport, birth certificate, or citizenship certificate) Two references, preferably with at least one academic, using the online HODSPA reference system. A guide on how to use the system is available here. Prospective students who are short-listed will be invited to attend an interview with members of the School Teaching Faculty. This provides the applicant with the opportunity to discuss any questions they have about the course of study.
Career Opportunities Expand Graduates may find employment in a variety of settings including community health and community services organisations, the health professions, rehabilitation providers, human resource management, child protection, family support counselling services, allied clinics and services, and private practice.
Course Duration and Structure Expand This two-year full time, or four-year part-time program, consists of 200 credit points. Students undertake a total of 16 units of study consisting of twelve coursework units, two placement units and two research relevant units. Year One CPc1 Psychotherapeutic Theories and Models CPc2 Person-Centred Counselling CPc4 Facilitating Therapeutic Change CPc5 Cognitive Behavioural Therapies DPc7 Assessment Process in Counselling and Psychotherapy DPc2 Ethics and Professional Development DPc3 Counselling Placement 1 DPc4 Treatment Planning Year Two MPc4 Counselling Placement 2 MPc5 Exploring Process-Experiential Emotion-Focused Therapy MPc6 Existential Psychotherapy and the Group Process MPc7 Key Competencies in Brief Dynamic Psychotherapy MPc1 Research Methods and Project MPc9 Child and Family Therapy MPc10 Trauma, Loss and Grief Therapy MPc11 Interpersonal Processes in Psychotherapy For unit descriptions, please click here.
Graduate Learning Outcomes Expand Students who satisfactorily complete the course will have achieved advanced knowledge and skills in the following areas of study: The ability to facilitate the therapeutic process according to established the client’s focused goals. The skills to conduct risks assessment and apply crisis intervention skills and management. Understanding of relational dynamics and capacity for effective human relatedness that facilitates change. An awareness of the impact of the self on others and the development of relational intelligence, sensitivity, resilience and respect. The ability to understand and practice within the PACFA Code of Ethics and Professional Guidelines. Developed the relevant research and data analysis skills with the ability to critically review research studies. Developed capacity to be self-reflective and learn from experience. Acquired knowledge of applying alternative modes of working with clients, including the use of real-time internet platforms within ethical guidelines. Awareness and understanding of the range of human diversity and social, cultural, economic and psychological contextual influences. Understanding the impact of gender, sexual identity, sexual orientation, age, ability, class, religion, race and ethnicity on therapy. Respect and acknowledgment of indigenous history and culture. Acquisition of a high level of verbal and professional communication skills.
Professional Recognition Expand The course is fully accredited by both the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) and by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA).
Recognition of Prior Learning Expand Students may only be given credit for any coursework if it is from a successfully completed approved course at the appropriate Australian AQF postgraduate level.