Supporting children through emotional and behavioural challenges requires more than just good intentions—it takes knowledge, skills, and the right approach. The Certificate of Child Counselling provides a practical understanding of child counselling, helping you learn how to work with children facing anxiety, trauma, social difficulties, and behavioural concerns. Whether you’re a teacher, caregiver, or aspiring counsellor, you’ll gain real-world strategies to support children in a meaningful way.
In this online child counselling course you will explore key areas of child development, mental health, and counselling techniques, learning how to identify early warning signs and apply evidence-based interventions. The course covers everything from play therapy and cognitive behavioural techniques to family dynamics and crisis support. You’ll also discover how to work with parents, schools, and communities to create a safe and supportive environment for children.
With a strong focus on effective counselling methods and real-world applications, you’ll leave with the confidence to support children effectively. If you’re ready to make a real difference in young lives, this course will give you the foundation to do it.
Course Structure
Certificate of Child Counselling
Unit 1: Understanding Childhood Challenges
- Types of childhood problems
- Common causes of childhood issues
- The role of resilience and vulnerability
- The impact of family dynamics and peer relationships
- Recognising early warning signs of distress
Unit 2: Child Development and Assessment
- Understanding normal child development
- Psychological and social changes in adolescence
- Assessing emotional and behavioural concerns
- Childhood disorders
- Ethical considerations in counselling
- The role of parents and caregivers
- Overview of psychological assessments and testing
Unit 3: Counselling for Anxiety and Stress-Related Disorders
- Understanding childhood anxiety
- Factors contributing to childhood anxiety
- Counselling approaches for anxiety
- Role of parents in managing anxiety
- Medication and alternative interventions
Unit 4: Counselling for Mood Disorders
- Recognising depressive disorders in children
- Symptoms and behavioural changes
- Causes of childhood depression
- Treatment options
- Addressing self-harm and suicidal ideation
- Supporting parents and caregivers in interventions
Unit 5: Counselling for Eating and Body Image Disorders
- Understanding eating disorders in children and adolescents
- Causes and risk factors (societal, psychological, genetic)
- Identifying signs and symptoms (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder)
- Effective counselling strategies for body image concerns
- Parental and professional interventions
Unit 6: Counselling for Behavioural and Conduct Disorders
- Identifying externalising disorders (conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder)
- Causes and risk factors (family dynamics, neurological influences)
- Strategies for behaviour management and positive reinforcement
- Counselling techniques for aggression and defiance
- Role of parents, schools, and communities in treatment
- Medication and alternative therapies
Unit 7: Counselling for Neurodevelopmental and Social Issues
- Understanding autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and ADHD
- Strategies for supporting children with ASD and ADHD
- Addressing bullying and cyberbullying through counselling
- Bedwetting and emotional regulation techniques
- Cross-cultural considerations in child counselling
Unit 8: Innovative and Alternative Counselling Approaches
- Exploring non-traditional therapies
- Art therapy
- Play therapy
- Music therapy
- Animal-assisted therapy
- Ecotherapy
- Lego therapy
- Multisystemic Therapy (MST)
- Personalised approaches to child counselling
Study Hours
Estimated duration 40 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
Click to See What Our Students Say
I did have a rough time at the start of my course due to my mental health, but completing this course helped me so much. It was an easy-paced and very easily understandable course and taught me what I’d need to know before entering the industry!
A.Miliotis, South Wentworthville, NSW | Certificate of Counselling – Children
I have found from start to finish, instructions to be easy to follow and precise. I have found that overall it has been a very relaxing and positive experience. Thank you
T. Acutt, Mindarie, WAC | Certificate of Counselling – Children
I had absolutely no issues. Quick responses, easy access and very user friendly service
M. Nicholls, Runaway Bay, QLD | Certificate of Counselling – Children
I enjoyed studying my course in counselling children. I’ve learned about a broad base of mental health concerns and possible treatments for children. I’m motivated to study further as I want to learn more.
Diana | South Turramurra, NSW | Certificate of Counselling – Children
I liked that it is self paced. Made it manageable whilst working full time.
Jennifer | NT | Certificate of Counselling – Children
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional development for those working or aspiring to work in:
- Youth work
- Child and adolescent counselling
- School counselling
- Child psychology
- Caring roles
- Health care roles
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