Newsroom staff
8 March 2016: In time for the new academic year, the University of Canberra's postgraduate counselling diploma has been officially accredited and Canberra residents will now be able to access counselling with new student-led clinics.
The Psychotherapy and Counselling Federation of Australia (PACFA) has accredited the University's Graduate Diploma in Counselling for its professional training in the theoretical and practical skill set necessary for employment ready therapists.
The course's convenor, Bruce Munro, said the accreditation means the two year part-time course is now recognised as providing advanced listening and responding skills, ethical frameworks and clinical placement experience.
"The PACFA panel applauded the quality of the training provided and how the course kept up with the therapeutic needs of the Canberra community," he said.
"The course is taught by practising clinicians in face to face classes where practice and reflection are key elements."
The Faculty of Health also introduced its new Master of Counselling coursework program this semester, which allows seasoned practitioners to update their credentials to a postgraduate qualification.
In addition, the Faculty of Health Clinics' new counselling service is open to the public at the Health Hub.
The clinic is staffed by postgraduate counselling students, who are working under close supervision of a qualified psychotherapist and educator, and provide a range of support services.
"The University has shown its commitment to ongoing counselling education with the opening of a student-led counselling clinic in the purpose built Health Hub complex on campus grounds," said Mr Munro.
"The clinic can provide support to adult individuals coping with life challenges and changes, such as relationship breakdowns, bereavement and anxiety, and assist in resolving crises, managing stress, improving well-being and developing goals for personal change."
Standard fees for counselling sessions are $30 per hour or $20 for concession card holders. To make an appointment phone 6201 5843 or email healthclinic@canberra.edu.au.
More information about counselling courses can be found at the Faculty of Health website or by phoning the Health Student Liaison Officer on 1300 301 727.
