Group
Occupation
261131 Counsellor (General)
Latest release
Consultation draft: Occupation Standard Classification for Australia (OSCA)
Reference period
August 2026
Released
17/08/2026
First release
261131 Counsellor (General)
Provides counselling services to individuals, families and groups to assist in overcoming difficulties and improving overall quality of life through a range of therapeutic interventions.
Family and Relationship Counsellors are excluded from this occupation. Family and Relationship Counsellors are included in Occupation 261133 Family and Relationship Counsellor.
Specialisations
- Bereavement or Grief Counsellor
- Child or Youth Counsellor
- Gambling Counsellor
- Sexual Assault Counsellor
- Trauma or Crisis Counsellor
Skill level: 1
Main tasks
- Provides individual and group counselling sessions to clients to address emotional and psychological challenges
- Assesses clients' counselling needs and requirements including conducting risk assessments and screening
- Assists with the understanding and adjustment of attitudes, expectations and behaviours
- Facilitates referrals to Health Professionals or community resources