Counsellor

Be the one improving the lives of others. If you possess a keen ear for listening and a desire to improve the lives of others, you can have a rewarding career in counselling or social work.

CAREER OVERVIEW

As a professional counsellor, you are qualified to counsel others regarding a variety of issues such as trauma and abuse, addictions, family and relationship problems, and more.

You will provide guidance to individuals, couples, families and groups who are dealing with issues that affect their mental health and well-being.

Graduates are eligible to apply for membership to the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.

CAREER PROSPECTS

Once qualified, the majority of counsellors set up their own private practice and combine this with part-time work.

Within the education sector, counsellors work in schools, colleges and universities, helping to support students with study and personal issues.

Opportunities in the healthcare sector include positions in hospitals, GP surgeries, and community and occupational healthcare teams.

The volunteer sector also provides an array of job options including working for charitable organizations with a focus on mental health, homelessness, domestic violence, adoption, the rehabilitation of offenders and family relationships.

PERSONAL QUALIFICATIONS

Excellent listening and communication skills
The ability to develop a non-judgemental approach.
An understanding of confidentiality and professional boundaries
Resilience, patience and humility
Emotional robustness and a high degree of self-reflexivity
Self-care and a willingness to recognize your own limitations
A genuine interest in others
A desire to remain curious and committed to improving the emotional well-being of your clients throughout your career

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Practitioners must have a Master's degree, either in Rehabilitation Counselling or with related graduate courses and a combination of internship/employment experience.