Associate Degree of Counselling and Psychotherapy (CRICOS course code 097947B) is a 2-year Associate Degree (AQF Level 6) delivered by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd (CRICOS 03581E). This course falls under the field of Society and Culture, specifically Human Welfare Studies and Services (090513 Counselling). It is designed for international students seeking foundational knowledge and practical skills in counselling and psychotherapy. Delivered in English across four Ikon campuses in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, the course prepares graduates for roles in community services, mental health support, and human welfare. As a CRICOS-registered course, it meets Australian standards for international student enrolment, ensuring ESOS Act protections. Note: HeadStart Academy is not a registered migration agent – visa advice should be sought from MARA agents.
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This Associate Degree in Counselling and Psychotherapy belongs to the field of 090513 Counselling, which is part of Human Welfare Studies and Services. Students gain an understanding of counselling theories, therapeutic communication, ethical practice, and human development. The curriculum typically covers assessment techniques, case management, and intervention strategies for diverse client groups. Graduates develop skills to support individuals facing mental health challenges, relationship issues, or life transitions. While HeadStart Academy provides general field information, the specific syllabus is determined by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd – always confirm with the provider. Australia has over 1,500 CRICOS-registered providers offering more than 26,000 courses, and this Associate Degree is one of many in society and culture.
The course duration is 2 years (104 weeks) as recorded on the CRICOS register. The language of instruction is English. This is a single qualification (no dual qualification) and does not include foundation studies. It is not a VET course (no VET national code). Students are expected to study full-time on campus. For international students, maintaining full-time enrolment is a condition of the Student visa (Subclass 500). Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd does not offer a work component as part of this course. The study mode is face-to-face, with campuses located in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney.
The indicative tuition fee for the entire 2-year program is A$44,100, with non-tuition fees of A$795, giving an estimated total of A$44,895. These fees are sourced from the CRICOS register as at April 2026 and are subject to change. Additional costs not included are: Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC), living expenses, and the visa application charge. For current fee schedules and payment plans, always check the provider’s website at www.ikon.edu.au. Living costs vary by location: for example, weekly rent in Melbourne can range from A$250–A$450, while in Adelaide it may be A$200–A$350. Use the cost of living guide on our site for estimates, but note this is indicative only. OSHC is mandatory for international students; typical annual costs are around A$600–A$800 for single cover.
English language requirements vary by provider – for this level (Associate Degree), an IELTS overall band score of 5.5 to 7.0 is typically required, with no band less than 5.5. Other equivalent tests like TOEFL or PTE may be accepted. Prior qualifications expected include completion of Australian Year 12 or equivalent. Some providers may consider mature-age entry or foundation programs. Specific entry criteria are set by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd – refer to their application page. Always verify directly with the institution. English proficiency requirements are a student visa condition; consult the Department of Home Affairs for full details.
This course does not include a mandatory work component. Students may still undertake casual work under Student visa conditions: 48 hours per fortnight during study periods and unlimited during scheduled breaks. Work must not compromise course attendance. Note that no work placement is guaranteed or required. For practical experience, consider volunteering or internships separately – ask the provider about optional opportunities. The absence of a work component means the course focus is academic study only.
The Associate Degree of Counselling and Psychotherapy is delivered at four Ikon campuses operated by Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd: Ikon Adelaide Campus in Adelaide, SA; Ikon Brisbane Campus in Brisbane, QLD; Ikon Melbourne Campus in Melbourne, VIC; and Ikon Sydney Campus in Haymarket, NSW. Each city has a diverse student population and good public transport. Adelaide has over 30 registered providers, Brisbane over 50, Melbourne over 60, Sydney over 70 – offering a rich study environment. Choose a location based on lifestyle preferences, cost of living, and proximity to support networks. All campuses are CRICOS-registered delivery sites.
International students must hold a Student visa (Subclass 500) to study this course. Key requirements: Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion, sufficient financial capacity (tuition, living costs, OSHC, travel), and Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC). Student visa holders can work up to 48 hours per fortnight during semester and unlimited during scheduled breaks. The course must be CRICOS-registered – as this one is. After completion, you may be eligible for Temporary Graduate visa (Subclass 485) depending on your qualifications. Always check the Department of Home Affairs website for current policies. HeadStart Academy does not provide visa advice – consult a registered migration agent (MARA).
Follow these three steps to apply for the Associate Degree of Counselling and Psychotherapy at Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – use HeadStart Academy to filter by course level (Associate Degree), field (Society and Culture), and city (Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, or Sydney). 2) Apply directly to your chosen institution – meet entry requirements, submit English test results (e.g., IELTS), academic transcripts, and meet application deadlines. You may be able to apply online via www.ikon.edu.au. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa (Subclass 500) – include the CoE in your visa application. Seek help from a registered migration agent if needed.
Ready to start your counselling career? Explore the Associate Degree of Counselling and Psychotherapy (097947B) at Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd by visiting their website at www.ikon.edu.au. For more courses and visa guidance, browse HeadStart Academy – your free resource for CRICOS-registered study in Australia.
Associate Degree of Counselling and Psychotherapy is a CRICOS-registered programme at Proteus Technologies Pty Ltd. Use this register extract [CRICOS register, Apr 2026] to cross-check codes, duration and indicative fees before you apply.
This page is general information only and not migration advice. Confirm Student visa (Subclass 500) requirements with the Department of Home Affairs.