Counsellor
Also known as
Work environment
- Usually work regular business hours but may work shifts
- Usually work in community centres, schools and private practices
- May do emotionally demanding work
- Need to be responsible, communicate well and identify and solve problems
Salary information
Typical tasks
- Counsel clients online, in person or by phone
- Help clients talk about emotions and experiences
- Teach clients ways to cope
- Discuss life challenges with clients
- Research solutions for clients problems
- Write notes on clients
- Maintain client records
- Encourage clients to talk about past experiences
Outlook
Growing awareness of mental health and wellbeing is increasing the focus on counselling services in New Zealand and internationally. Counsellors are supporting people with a wide range of personal, social and emotional challenges. The profession continues to evolve through greater use of online services, culturally responsive approaches and stronger integration with health, education and community services, helping improve access to support for diverse populations.
What employers and industry want in graduates
- Empathy and active listening
- Strong communication skills
- Professionalism and ethical judgement
- Ability to build trust and rapport
- Cultural awareness and respect for diversity
- Resilience and emotional maturity
AUT programmes
The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.
Further study options
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This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.