Trauma Counsellor Courses

Trauma Counsellors are mental health therapists who counsel and support clients who have experienced different types of trauma. They use trauma-informed psychotherapy and healing modalities to help their clients manage (and ultimately recover from) the devastating impacts of trauma and PTSD.

As a trauma counsellor you could be carrying out a mental health assessment on a new client, listening to a client tell their story, referring a client to a psychiatrist, writing up session notes after a client appointment, meeting with your supervisor to discuss some concerns about client responses to psychotherapy, attending professional development training, or just managing your busy calendar.

To be successful in this role you will need a well-developed sense of empathy, outstanding listening skills, and the ability to hold your clients in unconditional positive regard.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much do Trauma Counsellors earn?

The average salary for a counsellors in Australia is currently $1,652 per week ($85,904 annually). Trauma Counsellors are likely to earn slightly more than this.

PLEASE NOTE: These are median figures for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.

What are the job opportunities for Trauma Counsellors?

There are approximately 35,000 counsellors working in Australia right now, some of these are Trauma Counsellors. This is a growth occupation, especially in regional cities and rural areas.

How do I become a Trauma Counsellor?

Trauma Counsellors are qualified mental health professionals who have undertaken specialist training in trauma-informed psychotherapy as well as individual trauma modalities (eg, Trauma-focused CBT, EMDR therapy, Somatic therapy).

The minimum requirement for Trauma Counsellors in Australia is a VET Diploma of Counselling that is recognised by the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) but you may have trouble finding employment without a full Bachelor of Counselling or Master of Counselling.

To work as a Trauma Counsellor in Australia you should join one of the peak industry bodies: the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) or the Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA).

Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights 2023

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We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.

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Job Pathways

Here are some potential career pathways within child welfare, youth and family intervention and counselling. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.

Child Welfare, Youth and Family Intervention

Community Worker

$962 weekly pay

Residential Care Worker

$960 weekly pay

Youth Case Worker

$960 weekly pay

Youth Support Worker

$960 weekly pay

Child Safety Officer

$1,150 weekly pay

Community Outreach Coordinator