A Career in Counselling

By Stephanie O’Brien | Kōwhai Therapeutic Services

Are you someone who listens deeply, cares about people, and wants a job that makes a real difference? Counselling might be the career for you. Whether you're starting fresh or changing careers, becoming a counsellor in New Zealand can be both rewarding and flexible.

This blog will walk you through what a counsellor does, how to train, what student life looks like, and the kinds of jobs you could do once you're qualified.

How Do I Train to Be a Counsellor?

To become a counsellor in New Zealand, you’ll need a qualification approved by NZQA (New Zealand Qualifications Authority) or Dapaanz (Drug and Alcohol Practitioners Association Aotearoa New Zealand) at Level 7 or above. This could be a bachelor’s degree in counselling or a postgraduate diploma if you already have a degree in a related field.

What does student training involve?

Student training isn’t just classroom learning - it’s also hands-on and practical. You’ll:

• Learn core counselling skills like active listening, empathy, and ethical practice.

• Understand mental health conditions and how to support clients.

• Complete supervised clinical hours—this means practising with real clients under the guidance of an experienced counsellor.

• Engage in cultural competency training, especially understanding Te Tiriti o Waitangi and working with Māori and Pasifika communities.

• Be expected to participate in regular professional supervision to reflect on your work.

Once you've finished your course, you can apply for provisional membership with the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) and begin working toward full membership through supervised practice.

Where Can I Study?

There are many great providers across New Zealand, including:

• Universities (e.g. University of Auckland, Massey University)

• Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics

• Private training establishments with NZQA-approved programmes

Some providers also offer part-time or online options if you need to fit study around other commitments.

What Kind of Work Can I Do as a Counsellor?

Once qualified, you’ll have lots of options. You might work in:

• Schools – supporting young people with social, emotional, or learning-related challenges.

• Community organisations – helping people experiencing mental health issues, relationship challenges, addiction, or trauma.

• Private practice – offering one-on-one sessions with clients, either in person or online.

• Workplaces – as part of employee assistance programmes (EAP), supporting staff wellbeing.

• Hospitals and rehab centres – supporting people with chronic illness, grief, or recovery needs.

Counsellors can be employed or self-employed. Many enjoy the flexibility of working part-time, evenings, or running their own business.

What Are the Prospects and Pay Like?

According to Careers NZ:

• Entry-level counsellors can expect to earn around $56,000 a year.

• Experienced counsellors or those in private practice can earn $100,000 or more.

• There’s a growing demand for counsellors, especially in schools and mental health services.

• Māori and Pasifika counsellors are in particularly high demand, and cultural competency is a valued skill in the industry.

FAQs About Counselling Careers

Is there a demand for counsellors in New Zealand?

Yes! There’s increasing awareness of mental health, and many organisations, schools, and health services are hiring. If you’re culturally responsive, there’s even greater demand.

Can I be a counsellor without a degree?

No, you’ll need at least a Level 7 qualification in counselling (or higher) that’s approved by NZQA. This ensures you’re safe and ethical to practise.

How long does it take to become a counsellor?

Most programmes take 3–4 years if studying full-time. Part-time options can take longer.

What’s the difference between a counsellor and a psychologist?

A psychologist usually has a postgraduate qualification in psychology and may focus on assessment and diagnosis. A counsellor focuses more on supporting clients through life challenges and emotional wellbeing. Both are valuable roles, but they follow different training pathways.

FAQs About Kōwhai Therapeutic Services

Does Kōwhai offer counselling internships or placements?

Yes, we regularly host counselling students for placements as part of their training. We provide supervision and learning opportunities within a real-world setting.

I’m already qualified. Can I work at Kōwhai Therapeutic Services?

We’re always open to expressions of interest from passionate counsellors. Reach out via our website to see if there are opportunities.

Do you support new graduates?

Absolutely. We offer structured support, peer supervision, and mentoring to help you find your feet in the profession.

Final Thoughts

Counselling is more than a job, it’s a vocation. If you feel drawn to helping others and want a career with meaning, becoming a counsellor might be the right path for you.

At Kōwhai Therapeutic Services, we’re proud to support the next generation of counsellors and help create emotionally safe, resilient communities.