TAFE will offer a Diploma in Counselling to cater for growing demand.

Course co-ordinator and teacher Daneel Robinson said there was a recognised need for more counsellors in the region.

“Counselling has become a growing industry. There’s a higher need now for a lot more counsellors and in this area in particular because, as far as I know, there is no one else offering a Diploma of Counselling in this region,” she said.

“Not only are there more people wanting to get the skills to become counsellors, but also more people in need of counsellors.”

Ms Robinson said the two-year course would give students wide-ranging experience.

“They can work in welfare, they can work in community, they can work in the health sector, they can work in mental health, they can work in schools and in private practice,” she said.

“I think in the past counselling has sort of been seen as something that you only go to in dire consequences, but it can be proactive and there is lots of different places where counselling can fit in.”

Ms Robinson, an experienced teacher and counsellor, said the course would equip students with wide-ranging skills and also take them on a journey of self-discovery.

“I’m a big believer in the holistic approach,” she said.

“You need to understand yourself before you’re able to help other people.”

The course can also be completed in conjunction with the Diploma of Community Services, giving students a dual qualification.

Information sessions on the course will be held on April 14 at 2pm and 6pm in South West TAFE’s B Building and the course is due to start the following week.

Contact South West TAFE for more information.