AUSTRALIAN INSTITUTE OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLORS Course PROSPECTUS YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR A CAREER IN COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMUNITY SERVICES Courses
Contents A message from the CEO 1 About the Community Services Industry 2 Community Services, a worthwhile career 3 Learn how to help others 3 Improve how you perform your current job 3 Why learn with AIPC 4 Highly Experienced 4 Specialist vs Generalist 4 Flexible Funding Options 5 Practical Experience 5 Educational Relevance 5 Self-Paced Learning 5 Industry Leading Support 5 Learning that fits around your lifestyle 6 Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) 8 Duration 8 On Completion 8 Entry Requirements 8 Course Outline 9 Diploma of Youth Work 10 Duration 10 On Completion 10 Entry Requirements 10 Course Outline 11 Enrolment and Fees 12 Key Information 13 Institute Student Support Centres 17 Courses 7 AUSTUDY/ABSTUDY Approval 7 How our students and graduates rate our performance 7 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors Pty Ltd ATF AIPC Trust T/As Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. RTO number: 0670 Higher Education Provider Number: PRV12083
A message from the CEO Thank you for your interest in studying through the Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. Being involved in the Community Services sector means that you can make a real difference in areas such as youth and adolescents; mental health; relationships; case management; child protection; allied health and families. We ve helped people from all sorts of backgrounds become counsellors, and now we can assist you in fulfilling your goal of working within the Community Services sector. Many of our students are professionals seeking to acquire skills as an adjunct to their core profession, and many are seeking a fresh start in a rewarding profession, having not studied for many years. Whatever your background, our students all share a strong desire to help others. Whatever your motivation, if it is your natural desire to help others, AIPC s courses will provide you with the skills and knowledge to advance your career in this rewarding industry. We have a dedicated team of over 80 professionals whose sole purpose is to ensure our qualifications are of the highest educational standard, while providing you with the support you need to achieve the best possible outcome from your studies. Since its inception, AIPC has been a leader in the area of flexible learning. We understand that in today s fast paced world it can be difficult to find the time to undertake a qualification. Our courses are self-paced, allowing you to progress at a speed that suits you. No matter where you live or how busy you are, we make it possible to achieve your study goals. Thank you so much for taking the time to learn more about AIPC and our programs. Sandra Poletto Sandra Poletto Chief Executive Officer Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 1
About the Community Services Industry There has never been a better time for you to become involved and invested in the Community Services industries. It is predicted, between the years of 2015 to 2019, that employment within the Health Care and Social Assistance industries will increase by 18.7% (www.lmip.gov.au, 2015). By gaining a qualification in Community Services (Case Management) or Youth Work, you will be contributing to an industry that serves a very important purpose, to assist those with personal or relationship challenges. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping others overcome seemingly impossible obstacles. (%) 9.0 Employment level from 2004-2013 ( 000) 8.0 7.0 Health Care & Social Assistance Average Growth Rate over 10 years (%) All Industries Average Growth Rate over 10 years (%) 1202.4 1233.2 1301.7 1359.2 1403.5 6.0 5.0 964.7 994.3 1059.9 1077.1 1111.1 4.4 4.0 3.0 2.0 2.1 1.0 0.0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Health Care & All Indsutries Social Assistance Actual Growth Actual Growth (avg. last 10 yrs) (avg. last 10 yrs) 2 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Working in Community Services, a worthwhile career It s rare these days to hear people talk about their work with true passion. You hear so many stories of people working to pay the bills; putting up with imperfect situations; and compromising on their true passions. That s why it s always so refreshing to hear from people working in community services. They re always so full of energy and enthusiasm with an immense desire to help others. There s no doubt that working within community services is a personally rewarding and enriching experience. Just imagine a person comes to you for assistance. They are facing significant challenges and can t even see a future for themselves. They believe they have no way out and their despair is acute. They feel they should be able to handle their problems but know they can t. It makes them feel helpless, worthless and their self-esteem has never been lower. Now imagine you have the knowledge and skills to help this person overcome their challenges. You can help them to work through their situation, get the assistance they need and give them hope for the future. You assist them to build their self-esteem. Working in community services, you can experience these personal victories every day. And it s truly enriching. There is nothing more fulfilling than helping another person overcome seemingly impossible obstacles. A wonderful benefit of working in community services is the opportunity to help others deal with their situations. Helping others to access services they need, link in with support groups, and connect with others is an enjoyable and rewarding journey. You will learn how to provide the individual support and services needed to help your clients. Improve how you perform your current job If you are already work in community services, developing your skills and knowledge further will contribute to your effectiveness in your role. It can also open up further job opportunities as your knowledge of community services broadens and deepens. Service planning, developing programs, networking and collaborations, handling complex cases and self-reflection are all key areas and skills that contribute to your current role and provide a useful foundation for future employment opportunities. Learn how to help others Life can be challenging at times and people are forced to confront situations they re not prepared for. Unfortunately sometimes they don t have the skills, supports or means to be able to address their circumstances. Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 3
Why learn with AIPC If you are considering a career in Community Services (Case Management) or Youth Work, there are numerous benefits to gaining your qualification through AIPC: Highly Experienced We specialise in training in the Counselling and Community Services sectors. We have been training for over 25 years, and have taught in excess of 55,000 students from over 27 countries. This gives us a very unique insight into the industry and translates into highly applicable and enjoyable training. AIPC was, and still is, Australia s national provider of Counselling education. Now, we can provide you with the same expertise and experience within the Community Services sector. Our focus is the same today as it has always been to provide you with the highest quality education with a full range of student and graduate support functions. Providing you with a team of qualified and experienced professionals, AIPC will help you achieve your full potential throughout your studies and beyond. Specialist v Generalist We believe you re better off learning from a specialist than a generalist. Many training providers deliver courses across a variety of industries. At AIPC, we prefer to concentrate on counselling and community services education to ensure you receive expert education in your chosen field. 4 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Flexible Funding Options We aim to make our programs as affordable and accessible as possible. You can opt to pay your tuition by affordable monthly instalments, or upfront for which you receive a substantial discount. Practical Experience The courses are structured to ensure you graduate with a high level of practical skill so you can apply your knowledge with confidence. All courses include some practical components covering a range of topics that will assist you in applying your knowledge in real life situations. Because we have students who live throughout Australia, and the world, we have a variety of options to enable timely and effective completion of the practical components in our programs. Seminars give you the opportunity to apply the theory you have learned in a dynamic group settings. If you are unable to attend seminars, you can complete the practical components through alternative methods, such as with a private assessor or by submitting a DVD recording of your skills. Industry Leading Support AIPC sets the benchmark for service and support in external studies in Australia. Our extensive suite of support services has been developed and refined over many years of research and continuous feedback from students. With our national network of Student Support Centres, support is always close at hand. Even if you move State, you can access services through the local Student Support Centre to enjoy the same friendly local support. You will have access to our ecampus, where you can access your online resources, notes and assessments. You can join online forms to network with other students, and communicate with education staff for academic support. This gives you the ultimate control of how, when and where you learn. You also have unlimited use of the toll free Study Assistance line where you can speak with an education staff member to have all your study and assessment queries answered. Educational Relevance We recognise that if we are to evolve as better professionals, our education programs must also evolve to be consistent with the environment in which we live and work. By maintaining the currency and relevance of our programs we guarantee the value of the services our graduates are able to provide to clients and those around them. Self-Paced Learning AIPC vocational courses are entirely self-paced, meaning you can easily fit them around your lifestyle, providing the optimum flexibility. A course of study is a serious time commitment and from time to time, things arise in life that make it difficult to dedicate the necessary time to study. Our programs allow you to pick up and pause your studies at any time without any penalty whatsoever. Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 5
Learning that fits around your lifestyle Today there are more and more demands on your time. Gaining a qualification can be difficult when you have to fit it around other commitments. Most course providers are still designing their courses using traditional methods which suited the style and delivery of learning when students studied full time. However, we understand that you have to fit competing career, family and lifestyle needs into the same amount of hours. That s why the Institute focuses on external, flexible training. Our learning methods have evolved with the times. Our training method sets a precedent in flexibility and support. This means you can fit your learning around your lifestyle whilst maintaining exceptional levels of quality and support. Institute courses are designed to maximise your learning from home. You can progress at your own pace and because you are in total control of your study time, you can complete your course several times faster than by other means. 6 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Courses At AIPC, we pride ourselves on providing our students with the most relevant and rewarding educational experience. You can learn internally, through traditional distance education, online or any blend. Our programs are designed to fit around your needs. Study entirely online or through distance education from anywhere or come into our Student Support Centres in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Gold Coast, Sydney, Port Macquarie, Melbourne, Adelaide and Perth. Comprehensive Study Guides and readings are provided for each unit to enable you to advance your knowledge of each topic. To progress your course, you simply work through the Study Guide and readings to complete each unit s assessment book. AIPC has a variety of options to enable timely and effective completion of the practical components required for some units. Seminars give you the opportunity to apply the theory you have learned in a dynamic group environment. It s also a great opportunity to get together with fellow students and practice under guidance of a qualified Lecturer. To help facilitate your learning, our seminars use case scenarios relating to the specialist issues covered in your course and provide an opportunity for group discussion and interaction. Seminars are held regularly in most capital cities throughout Australia. If you are not able to attend seminars, you can complete the practical components through alternate means. You may choose to attend a one-on-one or small group session with a private assessor or by demonstrating your skills by submitting a DVD. We have detailed guidelines to assist students to compile their recordings and develop effective role plays to demonstrate their skills. Work placement is a required component of both the Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) and Diploma of Youth Work. These work placements are essential in assisting the transition from application in a simulated setting to real practice and enable the development of learned skills in a supportive, professional context. The Institute has a network of community organisations to approach. The Institute provides guidelines to students on how to approach agencies, assists with initial contact between you and the placement organisation, and follows up with you and the workplace supervisor regularly during the placement to ensure everything is progressing smoothly. How our students and graduates rate our performance The Institute is committed to continuous improvement. Its part of what makes us the best at what we do. To ensure we are providing the best education program available, we regularly survey our students and graduates to identify how they rate our performance in areas such as course content, service, administration and applicability of the course. We are extremely pleased to note that responses are overwhelmingly positive. In fact, in all areas, responses range from 90% to 100% of respondents giving positive responses. This feedback is very important for us and signifies the high level of commitment the Institute has to making your studies more enjoyable and worthwhile. AUSTUDY/ABSTUDY Approval The AIPC Diploma programs are Austudy and Abstudy approved. The full version of the Student Handbook is available for download at the Institute s website www.aipc.net.au. The Institute recommends you read these policies prior to applying for enrolment. Apply online at www.aipc.net.au/enrol Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 7
Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) The Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) is ideal for gaining the necessary skill sets for a profession in the Community Services sector. As a Case Manager, you may have the opportunity to work with individuals who require on-going assistance with issues such as mental health or social and behavioural difficulties. The responsibilities of Case Managers are diverse in nature but usually include duties such as the implementation of service programs, the evaluation and assessment of client needs, coordinating referral processes, and being an advocate for your client s requirements. Entry Requirements You are able to gain entry into the Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) if you have: Completed Year 12, or Completed a Certificate III qualification, or Have at least 3 years of sufficient life experience (work or study, and over the age of 21) Duration 18-months (full time study) (part time and self-paced study also available) On Completion After completion of all units, the Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) qualification is awarded by Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors Pty Ltd ATF AIPC Trust T/As Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. 8 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) Course Outline Course Code: CHC52015 Unit Code Unit Title CHCDEV002 * Analyse impacts of sociological factors on clients in community work and services CHCCSM005 # Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management CHCPRP001 # Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships CHCADV002 # Provide advocacy and representation services CHCDEV001 * Confirm client developmental status CHCDEV003 * Analyse client information for service planning and delivery CHCCCS004 # Assess co-existing needs CHCCSM004 # Coordinate complex case requirements Diploma of Community Services (Case Management) CHCCSM006 # CHCMGT005 # CHCDIV003 * CHCCOM003 # CHCLEG003 * HLTWHS004 * CHCCCS007 # CHCPRP003 Work Placement Provide case management supervision Facilitate workplace debriefing and support processes Manage and promote diversity Develop workplace communication strategies Manage legal and ethical compliance Manage work health and safety Develop and implement service programs Reflect on and improve own professional practice Completion of 100 hours of Work Placement 1. The information included in this Course Outline is indicative of the final curriculum but may not necessarily contain all units necessary for completion of the course. All assessment that you complete throughout your studies will contribute to your final award. Industry regularly reviews this qualification and the Institute is required to incorporate any changes specified during this review process. Any changes, upgrades or expansions to the curriculum will be instigated in such a way that your studies are affected as little as possible. 2. Progress through your course is achieved by completing each unit s assessment book, 7 progressive practicals (by seminar, video or private assessment) and a work placement. Seminars are generally 1 day in duration. Please contact your Student Support Centre if you have any questions about the requirements to complete your course. 3. You can study your course on a full-time, part-time, or self-paced basis. Indicatively, full time study of the course will take approximately 18 months. 4. Units marked with a # require completion of a practical and units marked with an * are finished during the work placement. Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 9
Diploma of Youth Work Diploma of Youth Work The Diploma of Youth Work provides you with the knowledge, understanding and real-life learning to work day-to-day with disadvantaged or at-risk youth. Duration 18-months (full time study) (part time and self-paced study also available) On Completion After completion of all units, the Diploma of Youth Work qualification is awarded by Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors Pty Ltd ATF AIPC Trust T/As Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors. As a Youth Worker, providing assistance with housing, networking or relevant health services and education can make an enormous difference to the future of a young person at risk. Entry Requirements You are able to gain entry into the Diploma of Youth Work if you: Are over the age of 21, and Have completed year 12, or Completed a Certificate III qualification, or Have at least 3 years sufficient life experience (work or study). By offering advice and support to those who may be, or already are, at risk means the youth of tomorrow will have a better chance of gaining an education, increasing their social and work skills, or providing their families with suitable accommodation. Now is your chance to contribute and make a difference. 10 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Diploma of Youth Work Course Outline Course Code: CHC50413 Unit Code Unit Title CHCDEV002 * Analyse impacts of sociological factors on clients in community work and services CHCYTH001 # * Engage respectfully with young people Diploma of Youth Work CHCDIV001 * CHCDIV002 * CHCLEG003 * HLTWHS001 * CHCYTH006 * CHCYTH002 * CHCPRP001 # CHCCSM005 # CHCCOM003 # CHCGRP002 # CHCADV002 # CHCYTH008 * CHCDEV001 * CHCYTH009 * CHCCCS007 # CHCPRT001 # * CHCYTH012 * CHCMHS001 # CHCYTH005 * Work Placement Work with diverse people Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety Manage legal and ethical compliance Participate in workplace health and safety Work with young people to establish support networks Work effectively with young people in a work context Develop and maintain networks and collaborative partnerships Develop, facilitate and review all aspects of case management Develop workplace communication strategies Plan and conduct group activities Provide advocacy and representation services Support young people to take collective action Confirm client developmental status Support youth programs Develop and implement service programs Identify and respond to children and young people at risk Manage service response to young people in crisis Work with people with mental health issues Develop and implement procedures to enable young people to address their needs Completion of 240 hours of Work Placement 1. The information included in this Course Outline is indicative of the final curriculum but may not necessarily contain all units necessary for completion of the course. All assessment that you complete throughout your studies will contribute to your final award. Industry regularly reviews this qualification and the Institute is required to incorporate any changes specified during this review process. Any changes, upgrades or expansions to the curriculum will be instigated in such a way that your studies are affected as little as possible. 2. Progress through your course is achieved by completing each unit s assessment book, 7 progressive practicals (by seminar, video or private assessment) and a work placement. Seminars are generally 1 or 2 days in duration. Please contact your Student Support Centre if you have any questions about the requirements to complete your course. 3. You can study your course on a full-time, part-time, or self-paced basis. Indicatively, full time study of the course will take approximately 18 months. 4. Units marked with a # require completion of a practical and units marked with an * are finished during the work placement. Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 11
Enrolment and Fees How to Enrol Enrolment into our Community Services qualifications can be completed online at www.aipc.net.au. Follow the step by step enrolment process, which provides us with all of the information we need to get you started with your studies. Apply online at www.aipc.net.au/enrol Total Costs Current fees are outlined on the Institute s website www.aipc.net.au and in the relevant application forms. Access to all of your learning materials are included in the course fees. 12 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Key Information All AIPC Policies can be obtained in full from the respective Student Handbook in the Students Section of the Institute s website www.aipc.net.au or request a copy of the respective handbook from the Institute s Head Office by phoning 1800 657 667. The Institute recommends that you read these policies prior to applying for enrolment. Rights and Obligations Vocational Programs: Under the training arrangement, both the Institute and its students have various rights and obligations. Details of each party s rights and obligations are included in the Rights and Obligations statement contained in the Student Handbook available on the Institute s website www.aipc.net.au or by requesting a copy from the Institute s Head Office by calling 1800 657 667. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) and Credit Transfers: If you have existing relevant skills, knowledge or experience, then you can apply to receive recognition for these through AIPC s Recognition of Prior Learning process. AIPC also recognises the Qualifications and Statements of Attainment issued by other Training Organisations. Complaints: The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors has a fair and equitable process for dealing with complaints. In the event that a complaint cannot be resolved internally to the student s satisfaction, the student will be advised of the appropriate external body where they can seek further assistance. Appeals: The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors provides an avenue for students to appeal decisions made, or the awarding of course and unit results, by an independent panel. Students are able to appeal against their results within 28 days from issue of the result. Student Conduct: The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors is a professional educational institute. AIPC staff are required to provide a high level of educational and administrative service to all enquirers and students. To maintain the integrity of this service, students also have obligations and are required to abide by the Institutes Student Conduct Policy. Language, Literacy and Numeracy: The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors has a process in place to identify students with language, literacy or numeracy difficulties. Details of the Institute s Language, Literacy and Numeracy Policy can be obtained from the Students Handbook on the Institute s website www.aipc.net.au or by calling the Institutes Head Office on 1800 657 667. Access and Equity: The Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors acknowledges the diverse nature of its student population and aims to meet the educational needs of all students, irrespective of their background. The Institute will endeavour to meet the individual needs of students through the integration of access and equity principles. Cancellation and Refund Policy: The Course Cancellation Policy is shown on the Application form and in the respective Student Handbook. Students must submit their cancellation in writing to their nominated Student Support Centre. Counselling and Support Services: The wellbeing of our students is important to us. If you require personal counselling or guidance, you may seek a referral to an Institute-trained practicing Graduate Member Counsellor. It is likely the Counsellor will negotiate a professional service fee with you. Protection of Student Fees Paid in Advance: AIPC is a member of the ACPET ASTAS and also has a Bank Guarantee in place to protect student fees paid in advance. Financial Obligations: The financial obligations of your enrolment into your course are shown on the respective course application form. Please ensure you understand your course fees and payment obligations prior to enrolling. Fees for Additional Items: While all fees to complete your course are disclosed on the Application Form and in the course s Student Handbook, and all learning materials are provided to successfully complete the program are included in the course fees, there are some optional items and services that students may need to pay additional charges for from time-to-time during their course of study. Re-Issuing Certificates and Statements of Attainment: In the event of loss, damage, destruction or a change of name, students are able to request a reprint of their Certificate, Academic Record and/or Statement of Attainment by completing the Request to Re-issue Certificate/Statement of Academic Record/Statement of Attainment form. Teachout of Courses: The Institute is obligated to keep its courses up to date with industry and educational requirements. If updating of a course leads to a new version of the course being released, students enrolled in the current course will be advised of a timeframe in which the current course will be taught out. In the event of not completing their course before the teach out date, students will be able to transition to the new course, and receive RPL towards units in the new course for components already completed in their current course. Please contact your nearest Institute Student Support centre if you require further information about studying with the Institute. Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 13
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Notes 16 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors
Institute Student Support Centres Head Office Regional NSW Locked Bag 15, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 PO Box 5106, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 47 Baxter Street, Fortitude Valley QLD 4006 2/34 Jindalee Road, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 P (07) 3112 2000 or Toll Free: 1800 657 667 P (02) 6581 5112 or Toll Free: 1800 625 329 F (07) 3257 7195 F (02) 6581 5117 Brisbane Sydney PO Box 425, Carina QLD 4152 PO Box 238, Parramatta NSW 2124 336 Stanley Road, Carina QLD 4152 Suite 1, Level 4, 60 Macquarie St, P (07) 3843 2772 or Toll Free: 1800 353 643 Parramatta NSW 2150 F (07) 3843 3599 P (02) 9687 9688 or Toll Free: 1800 677 697 F (02) 9687 9698 Regional QLD PO Box 1403, Buderim QLD 4556 Melbourne 19 Monks Crescent, Buderim QLD 4556 GPO Box 417, Melbourne VIC 3001 P (07) 5476 5200 Suite 3, Level 9, 474 Flinders Street, F (07) 5476 5233 Melbourne VIC 3000 P (03) 9614 7472 or Toll Free: 1800 622 489 Gold Coast F (03) 9620 0365 PO Box 5106, Port Macquarie NSW 2444 Unit 7, 153 Cotlew St, Ashmore QLD 4214 Singapore P (07) 5571 1811 or Toll Free: 1800 625 329 PO Box 7264, Karawara WA 6152 F (02) 6581 5117 Suite 5, 14 Brodie Hall Dr, Bentley WA 6102 P (08) 9277 3972 or P (08) 9277 4087 Adelaide Toll Free: 1800 246 381 F (08) 9277 4063 PO Box 21, Edwardstown SA 5039 616 South Road, Glandore SA 5037 New Zealand P (08) 8297 5111 or Toll Free: 1800 246 324 C/- New Zealand Institute of Professional Counsellors F (08) 8297 5177 7A William Pickering Dr, Albany, Auckland NZ P +64 9 919 4512 Perth F +64 9 919 4502 PO Box 7264, Karawara WA 6152 Suite 5, 14 Brodie Hall Dr, Bentley WA 6102 P (08) 9277 3972 or P (08) 9277 4087 Toll Free: 1800 246 381 F (08) 9277 4063 Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors 17
www.facebook.com/counsellors www.twitter.com/counsellingnews www.aipc.net.au YOUR FIRST CHOICE FOR A CAREER IN COMMUNITY SERVICES 103AIPC_V2 DECEMBER 2016