Microcredentials and Single Subjects

This introductory unit provides foundational knowledge of the major Schools of counselling and psychotherapy: psychodynamic, humanistic – existential, cognitive-behaviour, and post-modern. Students will develop theoretical and professional awareness of the essential aspects of these approaches. In particular, the theory of change and main interventions for each approach will be explored. The unit will expose the student to a range of therapeutic literature and other resources. The learning in this unit will be supported by class discussions, small group work, demonstrations, case study analyses, as well as student participation in triad practice groups.

Taught at Bachelor level (AQF 7), you will have the choice as to whether you undertake assessments in this unit or not. Those undertaking assessments may use this unit as a credit towards the Bachelor of Psychology and Counselling at The Cairnmillar Institute. Or, you can enrol directly into this degree for a Semester 1 or 2 start!*

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This is a foundational unit focused on developing an understanding of the theories, concepts, attitudes and practices of humanistic psychotherapy, with a particular focus on person-centred therapy and the work of its founder, Carl Rogers. It supports students in the development of therapeutic presence and foundational person-centred counselling skills. The skills and attitudes introduced in this unit are
contextualised via exploration of recent research into the common factors of successful therapy, including the neuroscience of relationships. The material presented in class and via selected readings will be practically applied through in class real plays practice. Note: Must be taken in the first semester of the degree (part time students can take this unit first semester of their first or second year)

Taught at Bachelor level (AQF 7), you will have the choice as to whether you undertake assessments in this unit or not. Those undertaking assessments may use this unit as a credit towards the Bachelor of Psychology and Counselling at The Cairnmillar Institute. Or, you can enrol directly into this degree for a Semester 1 or 2 start!*

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

Cognitive Behaviour approaches to counselling are based on the notion that problems related to thoughts, feelings and actions are learnt over the course of a person’s development and can be changed by applying the principles of learning theory and cognitive science using specific therapeutic interventions. CBT focuses on a person’s pattern of thinking and emotional responding, as well as their behavioural and interpersonal patterns and coping strategies in the context of their current life circumstances. This unit explores mindfulness-informed cognitive behaviour therapies, with an emphasis on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

The aim of this unit is to assist students in developing a foundational understanding of trauma-informed care, including its theoretical, empirical, and practical underpinnings. This unit explores the types, prevalence, neurobiology, and impacts of trauma while critically examining key theories relevant to trauma-informed practice. Students will evaluate and apply the principles of trauma-informed care and recovery-oriented models to support individuals with diverse trauma experiences. Emphasis is placed on methods for assessing the effectiveness of trauma-informed interventions, as well as addressing the application of trauma-informed care across diverse populations. Relevant ethical, contextual, and cultural considerations are integrated, alongside a critical discussion of the tensions and complexities inherent in trauma-informed and recovery-oriented practice.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit equips students with the skills to conduct trauma-informed assessments, develop effective treatment plans, and implement evidence-based interventions. Students will learn to apply individual and cultural considerations when selecting assessment tools and
therapeutic approaches, ensuring ethical, legal, and culturally sensitive practice. The unit emphasizes the integration of trauma-informed and recovery-oriented models in treatment planning for individuals experiencing trauma, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, addictive behaviors, and complex co-occurring issues. Students will critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of different therapeutic interventions and apply case formulations to understand the underlying mechanisms of trauma. Through case-based learning, students will develop a nuanced understanding of assessment and intervention strategies, while also critiquing contemporary models of trauma-informed care.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit explores the profound impact of intergenerational trauma on individuals and communities, examining the mechanisms through which trauma is transmitted across generations. Students will gain an understanding of how historical and systemic factors, such as colonization, displacement, and discrimination, contribute to the perpetuation of trauma, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other marginalized groups. The unit emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity, awareness, and humility in addressing these complex issues, ensuring that interventions are respectful and inclusive of diverse cultural contexts. Students will learn about various trauma-focused interventions and their application across the lifespan, from children to adults, with a focus on culturally responsive practices. Through case studies and practical examples, they will develop skills to support individuals and communities affected by intergenerational trauma. By the end of the unit, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills to implement trauma-informed approaches that foster healing and resilience in diverse populations.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit explores trauma-informed care principles for responding to family, domestic, and sexual violence, focusing on safety, trust, and empowerment. Students will learn to navigate ethical challenges and understand the broader context of violence, including social, cultural, and systemic influences. Emphasis is placed on cultural safety, self-determination, and respectful engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.

The unit also covers regulatory frameworks and service systems, equipping students to critically analyze information and apply trauma-informed practices. By the end, students will be prepared to work professionally and sensitively with victim-survivors, fostering healing and resilience.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact to our Applications team. 

Pre-requisite: A complete Australian undergraduate (AQF level 7) degree) in a related discipline (such as social work, social sciences, psychology, counselling or similar), or a minimum three-year Australian Bachelor degree (AQF 7) or Diploma (AFQ 5) or Advanced Diploma (AFQ 6) in any discipline with relevant work experience. 

This unit explores leadership theories and trauma-informed care principles, focusing on leading with empathy and cultural sensitivity, particularly for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Students will learn how to create trauma-informed organizations that promote recovery and resilience. The unit emphasizes self-awareness, supervision, and self care to manage vicarious trauma, while equipping students with crisis leadership skills. By the end, students will be able to apply trauma-informed practices in diverse settings, fostering inclusive and supportive environments.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit provides students with advanced theoretical knowledge and applied skills in Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, an evidence based, trauma focused intervention grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing model. Students develop an understanding of the theoretical foundations, research evidence, and clinical applications of EMDR, alongside its use as a transdiagnostic approach for working with trauma and complex presentations. The unit emphasises safe, ethical, and trauma informed practice, with a focus on client history taking, preparation, treatment planning, and assessment of suitability for EMDR. Students learn to apply all eight phases of the standard EMDR protocol with fidelity, including the safe use of dual attention stimulation, managing blocked processing, and utilising cognitive interweaves. Through structured workshops, simulated practice, and reflective learning, students build practical competency while maintaining client safety and professional boundaries. The unit also addresses adaptations of EMDR for diverse populations, including developmental stages, neurodivergence, cultural contexts, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. By the end of the unit, students will be able to integrate EMDR safely and effectively within trauma informed clinical practice and demonstrate readiness for ongoing supervision and professional development.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit develops students’ theoretical knowledge and applied skills across three evidence based trauma-focused approaches: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (TF CBT), Narrative Therapy, and Imagery Rescripting. Students learn how each modality conceptualises trauma and supports recovery, with emphasis on trauma-informed, ethical, and culturally responsive practice. The unit focuses on developing applied competence in core TF-CBT processes, narrative practices such as externalisation and re-authoring, and the safe use of Imagery Rescripting to modify trauma-related imagery and core beliefs. Through structured workshops, observed skills practice, and reflective learning, students build the capacity to adapt and integrate these approaches for diverse presentations, including across developmental stages, neurodivergence, and cultural contexts, including Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples. By the end of the unit, students will be able to flexibly apply and integrate multiple trauma-focused interventions to support recovery and therapeutic change within trauma-informed clinical practice.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit develops students’ research literacy and applied skills in trauma-informed and inclusive research practice. Students will gain an understanding of the scientific method and
its relevance to trauma-informed care, with a focus on ethical, culturally responsive, and intersectional research approaches. The unit equips students to critically evaluate qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-method research designs, navigate academic databases, and appraise the quality, strengths, and limitations of trauma-related research, particularly in relation to marginalised populations. A central focus of the unit is the development of a Critically Appraised Topic (CAT), through which students learn to formulate researchable questions, conduct systematic literature searches, synthesise empirical evidence, and translate findings into trauma-informed implications for practice and policy. Students will also develop skills in academic writing and professional research communication through
written and oral presentation formats. By the end of the unit, students will be able to design and communicate ethically sound, evidence-informed research that supports trauma informed practice, policy development, and ongoing professional learning.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit builds advanced knowledge and applied skills in trauma-informed care for complex clinical, organisational, and systemic contexts. Students will deepen their understanding of the neurobiological, psychological, social, and systemic impacts of trauma, with particular attention to intersectionality, complex trauma, and cumulative adversity. The unit emphasises advanced cultural humility and ethical practice, including working respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other marginalised communities. Students will develop skills in advanced trauma-informed assessment, ethical decision-making, reflective supervision, and mentorship, alongside strategies to support practitioner wellbeing and prevent vicarious trauma. The unit extends trauma-informed practice beyond individual therapy to include community- and systems-level applications, policy advocacy, and leadership in trauma-responsive settings. Through applied learning, critical reflection, and skills-based assessment, students will strengthen their capacity to manage complex clinical presentations, navigate ethical and professional challenges, and contribute to trauma-informed change across services and systems. By the end of the unit, students will be equipped to lead, supervise, and advocate for advanced trauma-informed practice that promotes safety, equity, resilience, and sustainable professional practice.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit develops students' knowledge and applied skills in providing neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed care to neurodivergent clients. Students learn about the history and foundations of the neurodiversity-affirming paradigm, the lived experiences of neurodivergent people, and the ways that trauma, complex PTSD, attachment difficulties, and dissociation may present in Autistic and ADHD populations. The unit focuses on building practical skills for adapting trauma assessment, case formulation, the therapeutic relationship, and a wide range of trauma-focused interventions including skills-based approaches, somatic and sensorimotor therapies, EMDR, Imagery Rescripting, TF-CBT, and integrative creative approaches to be responsive to individual differences in communication, sensory needs, cognitive functioning, and identity. Through structured workshops, case-based learning, and reflective practice, students build the capacity to provide affirming, flexible, and integrative trauma therapy that centres neurodivergent clients' voices, strengths, and goals. By the end of the unit, students will be able to critically evaluate current research, advocate for affirming approaches, and thoughtfully integrate multiple trauma-focused modalities in their work with neurodivergent clients.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.

This unit introduces students to contemporary theories on group processes and structure. Students will learn how group dynamics and processes progress over time across different types of groups, with an emphasis on psycho-educational groups and groups established for support (for example, mutual aid groups) or therapeutic means. This unit will bring together the theory and practice of group facilitation skills, with students taking an active role in group participation and facilitation.

Please note, single subject enrolment does not guarantee students a place in a Cairnmillar program of study. Eligibility criteria and recognition of prior learning restrictions do apply. For all enquiries, please contact our Applications team. 

*Applications will be forwarded to the Course Coordinator for an informal discussion prior to admittance.