CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling
What you’ll find here:
Delivery
2024 Course Fees
Course Units
Locations Offered
Entry Criteria
CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling
The nationally accredited CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling with aifc is accredited with both ACA and CCAA. It is the first phase that equips you for ministry and launches you on your counselling training pathway.
Incorporating a Christian worldview throughout, this course prepares you to work with clients and people in your community, using established counselling modalities whilst considering theological, psychological and spiritual dimensions to people’s problems. There is a deliberate focus on students’ personal growth, spiritual development and equipping that is foundational to helping others.
- Full time and part time options available
- Four enrolments a year
- Biblically based
- Trainers that support you on your academic, spiritual and personal development formation
- Intentional journeying with like-minded peers
The Diploma is nationally accredited, developed to agreed industry standards, and responsive to the current and future demand for counselling skills – both within the local church and more broadly. You will learn essential communication, micro-counselling, interviewing and intervention skills that will equip you to be effective in a number of settings, including faith communities, not-for-profit organisations, community health centres, education agencies and government departments.
- Engage in the learning environment through collaboration, learning and sharing insights with classmates covering the same material
- Consistent progress with feedback given from trainers to enhance learning
- Learn valuable skills in time management with a structured and organised learning experience and set due dates
Research has shown that non-self-paced courses often have higher completion rates than self-paced courses. aifc’s structure, deadlines, and support help students stay on track, complete the course, and achieve their goals.
Delivery
CHC51015 Diploma of counselling is available either as a full-time or part-time study option. aifc is intentional in creating a vibrant and engaging learning community for students. Students have the option of completing all of their training with aifc, online, or they may choose to complement and supplement their online training activities with the highly recommended seminar days, occurring for one Friday and Saturday, of each term, providing a blended learning experience.
Our online systems and processes enable students to study online from anywhere in the world, with a reliable high-speed internet connection. Through the use of video conferencing and learner management platforms, students receive online training lectures, support from staff, and connection with other students to complete practical assessment requirements in an effective, practical manner.
Our courses are delivered through live interactive online training for each unit of competency; these training sessions are recorded for your convenience if you cannot attend live. In addition to specific training for each unit, each term aifc delivers a live skills-based seminar online or face to face. Students are required to attend a certain percentage of seminar days based on your course progression, which will allow you to develop skills and work alongside other students in the aifc community.
The Friday is a student focussed day, offering opportunities such as further practical skills practice, role-play observations of relevant unit content, and the opportunity to complete any current practical assessment tasks. The Saturday is ‘aifc community day’ open to current students, aifc alumni and the wider community. The subject matter is covered by expert guest speakers and staff members who will share sessions and workshops relevant to our accredited course’s training material, and also as professional development for practising counsellors. Again, this presents another value-add and recommended opportunity for our students to engage further in their course content.
Course Units
| Training Module | Topic | Unit Code and Name |
| Cornerstone This group of units lay the foundation for your personal discipleship journey and the learning of basic counselling skills, ethics, and God’s redemptive work in the life of the believer. We look at working with those from other cultures and some introductory interventions around depression and anxiety. Our guiding biblical text is Ephesians 2:19-22 | Establish, build and maintain relationships with clients and others from a Christian perspective, with a focus on the foundational counselling skills of attending, respect and empathy | CHCCOM002 Use communication to build relationships |
| A structured approach to Christian counselling to help determine, establish and confirm the counsellor/client relationship | CHCCSL001 Establish and confirm the counselling relationship |
|
| Identify and work within the legal and ethical frameworks that apply to counsellors, community services and health workers | CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically |
|
| Understand and apply a range of personality theories, human development and stages of faith to analyse and understand human behaviour | CHCCSL004 Research and apply personality theories |
|
| Establish relationships, clarify needs, and provide support to people who are living with mental health issues. | CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues | |
| Use advanced and specialised communication skills in the client – counsellor relationship, including principles of effective verbal and non-verbal communication. | CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills |
|
| Understand core cultural values and beliefs to respectfully counsel people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations | CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people |
|
| Identify and promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety issues in the helping process | CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety |
|
| Assess and promote body, soul and spiritual wellbeing with clients with a focus on God’s redemptive restoration process | CHCMHS011 Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing |
|
| Develop We introduce you to a specific model of Christian counselling and the basics of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which integrates theology, psychology and spirituality. We look at working with those who are suicidal and supporting those in grief. Our guiding biblical text is Ephesians 4:11-13 | Evaluate, reflect and enhance your practice as a Christian counsellor | CHCPRP003 Reflect and improve upon professional practice |
| Recognise situations where clients and others may be in imminent crisis, and then work collaboratively to minimise any safety concerns and make plans to access support services | CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations |
|
| Use techniques from a range of counselling therapies including Christian approaches and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, to confirm the suitability of counselling techniques in a range of client situations | CHCCSL006 Select and use counselling therapies |
|
| Helping clients clarify their goals and requirements, exploring options with clients, and supporting clients to facilitate change that lasts | CHCCSL007 Support counselling clients in decision making processes |
|
| Integrating theology, psychology and spirituality dimensions to apply behaviourism in counselling practice and learn to analyse environmental modelling influences and their outcomes | CHCCSL005 Apply learning theories in counselling |
|
| Conducting practical client management beginning with client meetings, case management plan through to case termination. | CHCCSM005 Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management |
|
| Recognise and respond to the needs of people who are experiencing loss, grief and bereavement | CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support |
|
| Engaging clients to identify and work through their concerns in a structured way that incorporates theology, psychology and spirituality dimensions to people’s problems | CHCCSL003 Facilitate the counselling relationship and process |
Entry Criteria
Entry Criteria
All students are required to provide a proof of identity document. (a certified copy of drivers license or passport). Be of a mature age (over 18 years)
Students applying for VET student Loans assistance to complete this Diploma are also required to provide evidence of completion of a minimum of year 12 or Certificate IV and above. If unable to provide sufficient evidence, the applicant may be asked to complete a Language Literacy & Numeracy (LLN) test, and achieve a minimum of ‘working at level 4 / exit level 3‘ in the Reading and Numeracy tests.
Seminar Locations
Seminars offered at the following locations:
Twice a year, aifc offers face to face seminars in these locations:
NSW
Stanmore House
53 Harrow Road
Stanmore NSW 2048
VIC
One Church
184 Surrey Rd,
Blackburn VIC 3130
QLD
Springlife
178 Springwood Road
Springwood QLD 4127
WA
Perth Bible College
1 College Court
Karrinyup WA 6018
* View & download more detailed information of 2024 Training Weeks and Census Dates.
2025 Course Fees
For students who enrol in Quarter 1 2025, the fees for the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling are $9,736.00. Click here to see a detailed breakdown of unit costs and availability of VET Student Loan funding.
-
Download Our Course and Services Guide
-
Book a Course Advisory Session
Contact Us
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
(02) 6242 5111
1300 721 397 (Toll free)
About this course
Looking to begin your journey in Christian counselling?
The nationally accredited CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling with aifc is your first step towards a fulfilling career, equipping you for both ministry and professional counselling settings. As an online counselling course, it offers a comprehensive pathway, providing a solid foundation for those pursuing a Bachelor of Counselling with ACOM.
This course is accredited with both the Australian Counselling Association (ACA) and the Christian Counsellors Association of Australia (CCAA), ensuring you’re recognised as industry-ready. At aifc, we don’t just teach you counselling skills; we prepare you for life and your counselling vocation by incorporating a Christian worldview into every aspect of the course.
Our curriculum focuses on established counselling modalities, while considering the theological, psychological, and spiritual dimensions of human challenges. Alongside practical skills, we emphasise your spiritual formation and personal growth—key elements in equipping you to support those around you.
Why choose aifc?
- Full-time and part-time options available, with four enrolment intakes each year.
- Biblically based, integrating Christian values with counselling theory and practice.
- Trainers committed to your academic, spiritual, and personal development.
- Be part of a community of like-minded peers, with intentional journeying alongside classmates.
- Gain essential skills in communication, micro-counselling, interviewing, and intervention, preparing you to serve in faith communities, not-for-profit organisations, community health centres, and more.
By the end of the course, you’ll not only be better equipped to support your community, but also prepared for further studies. The Diploma of Counselling is a vital stepping stone in your counselling training pathway, with an opportunity to advance to a Bachelor of Counselling with ACOM.
aifc’s structured learning environment, set due dates, and supportive trainers keep you on track, helping you successfully complete the course. Research shows that this non-self-paced approach leads to higher completion rates, ensuring you meet your goals and are fully prepared for your future.
For eligible students, Vet Student Loans (VSL) are available. Learn more about VSL eligibility here .
Be equipped for life with aifc, and grow in community while pursuing your counselling vocation.
-
Download Our Course and Services Guide
-
Book a Course Advisory Session
Contact Us
Monday to Friday 9am-5pm
(02) 6242 5111
1300 721 397 (Toll free)
Delivery
CHC51015 Diploma of counselling is available either as a full-time or part-time study option. aifc is intentional in creating a vibrant and engaging learning community for students. Students have the option of completing all of their training with aifc, online, or they may choose to complement and supplement their online training activities with the highly recommended seminar days, occurring for one Friday and Saturday, of each term, providing a blended learning experience.
Our online systems and processes enable students to study online from anywhere in the world, with a reliable high-speed internet connection. Through the use of video conferencing and learner management platforms, students receive online training lectures, support from staff, and connection with other students to complete practical assessment requirements in an effective, practical manner.
Our courses are delivered through live interactive online training for each unit of competency; these training sessions are recorded for your convenience if you cannot attend live. In addition to specific training for each unit, each term aifc delivers a live skills-based seminar online or face to face. Students are required to attend a certain percentage of seminar days based on your course progression, which will allow you to develop skills and work alongside other students in the aifc community.
The Friday is a student focussed day, offering opportunities such as further practical skills practice, role-play observations of relevant unit content, and the opportunity to complete any current practical assessment tasks. The Saturday is ‘aifc community day’ open to current students, aifc alumni and the wider community. The subject matter is covered by expert guest speakers and staff members who will share sessions and workshops relevant to our accredited course’s training material, and also as professional development for practising counsellors. Again, this presents another value-add and recommended opportunity for our students to engage further in their course content.
Course Units
| Training Module | Topic | Unit Code and Name |
|
Cornerstone
This group of units lay the foundation for your personal discipleship journey and the learning of basic counselling skills, ethics, and God’s redemptive work in the life of the believer. We look at working with those from other cultures and some introductory interventions around depression and anxiety. Our guiding biblical text is Ephesians 2:19-22 |
Establish, build and maintain relationships with clients and others from a Christian perspective, with a focus on the foundational counselling skills of attending, respect and empathy | CHCCOM002 Use communication to build relationships |
| A structured approach to Christian counselling to help determine, establish and confirm the counsellor/client relationship | CHCCSL001 Establish and confirm the counselling relationship |
|
| Identify and work within the legal and ethical frameworks that apply to counsellors, community services and health workers | CHCLEG001 Work legally and ethically |
|
| Understand and apply a range of personality theories, human development and stages of faith to analyse and understand human behaviour | CHCCSL004 Research and apply personality theories |
|
| Establish relationships, clarify needs, and provide support to people who are living with mental health issues. | CHCMHS001 Work with people with mental health issues | |
|
Use advanced and specialised communication skills in the client – counsellor relationship, including principles of effective verbal and non-verbal communication. |
CHCCSL002 Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills |
|
| Understand core cultural values and beliefs to respectfully counsel people from diverse social and cultural groups and situations | CHCDIV001 Work with diverse people |
|
| Identify and promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety issues in the helping process | CHCDIV002 Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety |
|
| Assess and promote body, soul and spiritual wellbeing with clients with a focus on God’s redemptive restoration process | CHCMHS011 Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing |
|
|
Develop
We introduce you to a specific model of Christian counselling and the basics of Cognitive Behavioural Therapy which integrates theology, psychology and spirituality. We look at working with those who are suicidal and supporting those in grief. Our guiding biblical text is Ephesians 4:11-13 |
Evaluate, reflect and enhance your practice as a Christian counsellor | CHCPRP003 Reflect and improve upon professional practice |
| Recognise situations where clients and others may be in imminent crisis, and then work collaboratively to minimise any safety concerns and make plans to access support services | CHCCCS019 Recognise and respond to crisis situations |
|
| Use techniques from a range of counselling therapies including Christian approaches and Cognitive Behaviour Therapy, to confirm the suitability of counselling techniques in a range of client situations | CHCCSL006 Select and use counselling therapies |
|
| Helping clients clarify their goals and requirements, exploring options with clients, and supporting clients to facilitate change that lasts | CHCCSL007 Support counselling clients in decision making processes |
|
| Integrating theology, psychology and spirituality dimensions to apply behaviourism in counselling practice and learn to analyse environmental modelling influences and their outcomes | CHCCSL005 Apply learning theories in counselling |
|
| Conducting practical client management beginning with client meetings, case management plan through to case termination. | CHCCSM005 Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management |
|
| Recognise and respond to the needs of people who are experiencing loss, grief and bereavement | CHCCCS017 Provide loss and grief support |
|
| Engaging clients to identify and work through their concerns in a structured way that incorporates theology, psychology and spirituality dimensions to people’s problems | CHCCSL003 Facilitate the counselling relationship and process |
Entry Criteria
Entry Criteria
All students are required to provide a proof of identity document. (a certified copy of drivers license or passport). Be of a mature age (over 18 years)
Students applying for VET student Loans assistance to complete this Diploma are also required to provide evidence of completion of a minimum of year 12 or Certificate IV and above. If unable to provide sufficient evidence, the applicant may be asked to complete a Language Literacy & Numeracy (LLN) test, and achieve a minimum of ‘working at level 4 / exit level 3‘ in the Reading and Numeracy tests.
Seminar Locations
Seminars offered at the following locations:
Twice a year, aifc offers face to face seminars in these locations:
NSW
Stanmore House
53 Harrow Road
Stanmore NSW 2048
VIC
One Church
184 Surrey Rd,
Blackburn VIC 3130
QLD
Springlife
178 Springwood Road
Springwood QLD 4127
WA
Perth Bible College
1 College Court
Karrinyup WA 6018
* View & download more detailed information of 2024 Training Weeks and Census Dates.
2025 Course Fees
For students who enrol in Quarter 1 2025, the fees for the CHC51015 Diploma of Counselling are $9,365.00. Click here to see a detailed breakdown of unit costs and availability of VET Student Loan funding.
Why choose aifc?
At aifc we are:
Biblically integrated
Flexible
Supportive
Our experienced and dedicated Trainers and Assessors go the extra mile to make a positive difference in our students' aifc journey. aifc staff support all our students to succeed in meeting the outcomes of their chosen course.
Taught by professionals
Affordable
abound
We are nationally accredited
aifc offers accredited courses, as part of the counselling training pathway, in partnership with the Australian College of Ministries, a Sydney College of Divinity member, for those wishing to pursue or add to professional counselling qualifications.
93.6%
of students were satisfied with the overall quality of their training.88.9%
of students would recommend aifc training.94.8%
of students would recommend their training provider.95.5%
were employed or enrolled in further study after training.
What our students have to say:
- “I have built my confidence and developed new skills.”
- “Genuine trainers who offered lots of help and guidance throughout the year.”
- “The assessors are extremely thorough and helpful.”
- “I love that God’s Word and the Christian perspective is weaved throughout.”
- “I feel well equipped to go out and deliver a professional service.”
Download our course and services guide
We’ve put together a comprehensive course and services guide with everything you need about what aifc offers.
What should I look for when choosing a provider?
When choosing the Provider for your christian counselling education, it is important to ask yourself
Bible-based
Our courses integrate theology, psychology and spirituality. We train and equip Christian counsellors, rather than Christians who do counselling.
Taught by professionals
Our trainers and assessors are all experienced professionals in their field. High quality teaching, combined with one-on-one access to trainers makes the difference.
Flexible
aifc offers both live online and face-to-face training. You choose which delivery mode is best suited to your lifestyle and work commitments.
Accredited
Our courses include a range of VET accredited qualifications and non-accredited short courses. aifc is also the only Christian counselling provider to be accredited by ACA, CCAA and is a member of ITECA.
Affordable
Finding a course that fits your budget is important. With funding options and Austudy & Abstudy available to eligible students, our courses continue to be affordable and within reach of those seeking to become a qualified counsellor.
Membership to aifc Counsel
An innovative online counselling platform, that offers state-of-the-art counselling features with the opportunity to collaborate with your counselling peers and build a thriving counselling practice.
At aifc, our sole focus is to train and equip Christian Counsellors. More than just a counsellor, a Christian counsellor trusts in God and listens to His still small voice above all else.
It’s a big difference.
Nicholas Marks, CEO aifc
Download the Course and Services Guide
We’ve put together a comprehensive course and services guide with everything you need to know about what aifc offers.
Fill out the form below and we’ll send it straight to your inbox.