15 Best Counselling Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

If you’re thinking about taking counselling courses in South Africa, you’re probably curious about what counselling actually involves.

Simply put, counselling is all about helping people work through their problems, big or small, by talking things through in a safe, supportive space. It’s about listening with empathy, offering advice when needed, and guiding someone to find their own solutions.

But here’s where it’s important to draw a line – counselling is not about giving quick fixes or telling someone what to do. It’s not about being a therapist who does all the talking or offering judgment. Counselling is about creating a safe environment where people can express their feelings and work on their challenges at their own pace. It’s a partnership, not a one-way street.

Now, if you’re ready to explore this field and help others make real, lasting changes, let’s get into the best counselling courses South Africa has to offer!

Counselling Courses in South Africa
Counselling Courses and Requirements in South Africa
Where Can I Study Counselling in South Africa?
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Counselling Courses in South Africa

Here’s a list of the best accredited counselling courses in South Africa:

Diploma in Counselling
Certificate in Career Counselling
Certificate in Grief Counselling
Certificate in Addiction Counselling
Certificate in Trauma Counselling
HIV Counselling Courses
Certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy
Certificate in Child and Adolescent Counselling
Certificate in Crisis Intervention
Certificate in Art Therapy
Certificate in Music Therapy
Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Certificate in Psychodynamic Therapy
Certificate in Telehealth Counseling
Certificate in Sports Psychology

1. Diploma in Counselling

A Diploma in Counselling is one of the best courses for anyone looking to make a real difference in people’s lives. This course is all about teaching you how to listen, understand, and provide meaningful support to individuals dealing with challenges.

You’ll learn practical counselling techniques, the psychology behind human behavior, and how to create a safe and supportive environment for clients. It’s perfect for those who want to work in schools, communities, or even private practice.

At The South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP), students can pursue a Diploma in Counselling Psychology. The program focuses on developing your ability to guide clients effectively while honing communication, problem-solving, and empathy skills.

SACAP hasn’t listed the cost for this course as interested students will need to book a request for the price on their website. So, if you’re passionate about helping others and want to build a rewarding career, this diploma is a fantastic place to start!

Read: 12 Best Life Coach Training Certification Courses

2. Certificate in Career Counselling

Everyone deserves guidance when choosing a career path, and that’s where a Certificate in Career Counselling shines. This course focuses on helping you become a professional who guides students, job seekers, or even career changers toward fulfilling paths.

It teaches you to understand personality types, interests, and market demands. You’ll gain skills like effective communication, assessment techniques, and strategies for matching people to careers that fit their strengths and goals.

If this sounds exciting, you can consider studying at the CAMS Institute. The course costs around R5,200.00, which includes registration, course materials, courier fees, and exam fees.

Whether you want to work in schools, businesses, or as an independent consultant, this certificate can help you open doors to meaningful work. It’s perfect for anyone passionate about helping others find their way!

3. Certificate in Grief Counselling

Once you step into the world of counselling, you quickly realize how many ways there are to make a difference in people’s lives. Courses like the Certificate in Grief Counselling, Certificate in Career Counselling, and the Diploma in Counselling each open unique doors to helping others in powerful ways.

The Certificate in Grief Counselling focuses on supporting individuals dealing with loss, teaching you empathy, active listening, and strategies to guide people through their healing process.

At the South African College of Applied Psychology, the certificate in grief counselling costs R3,675.

4. Certificate in Addiction Counselling

In most communities, addiction is a silent battle that many face and the Certificate in Addiction Counselling equips you to make a difference. This is one of the best addiction counselling courses out there!

This course is all about understanding the causes and effects of addiction, from substance abuse to behavioral dependencies. You’ll learn skills like active listening, intervention strategies, and how to guide individuals on the road to recovery with compassion and professionalism.

A great place to study this course in South Africa is the South African College of Applied Psychology (SACAP). The program focuses on the theoretical and practical aspects of addiction counselling, ensuring you are prepared to handle real-world challenges.

The cost of this course is R3,675, offering exceptional value for anyone looking to build a career in this vital field. If you’re passionate about helping people overcome struggles and regain control of their lives, this course is for you!

5. Certificate in Trauma Counselling

It is often said that trauma leaves deep scars, but the Certificate in Trauma Counselling empowers you to help others heal. It is one of the best trauma counselling courses out there.

This course dives into understanding the effects of trauma—be it from abuse, accidents, or other life-altering events—and equips you with the skills to support those on their recovery journey. You’ll learn how to create safe spaces, provide emotional support, and use therapeutic techniques tailored to trauma survivors.

A top choice for this program in South Africa is the University of Capetown. This university offers this course under their Faculty of Health Science at R5,500 per person, from 24 to 28 February 2025, at the UCT Faculty of Health Sciences campus.

Also, read: Best 15 Medicine Courses in South Africa | Cost and Requirements

6. HIV Counselling Courses

People do not always understand the immense emotional toll that an HIV diagnosis can have, and that’s where HIV Counselling Courses step in to make a real difference. These courses are designed to train you in providing support to individuals living with or affected by HIV.

You’ll learn how to guide people through testing, deliver results compassionately, and offer coping strategies for managing the emotional and social challenges that often come with the diagnosis.

One of the best places to study this course is the Boston City Campus in South Africa. Their program covers vital skills like confidentiality, communication, and health education, preparing you for impactful work in clinics or community settings.

The course costs is not listed. Students will need to contact the admin directly or request for the price details. The course lasts for 1 year (minimum) – 3 years (maximum). Students can choose to study full-time or part-time.

If you’re passionate about helping others navigate tough times with strength and understanding, this course is an excellent choice!

7. Certificate in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)

The Certificate in Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a fantastic course that helps you build practical skills to manage stress and enhance well-being.

It’s an 8-week program that focuses on mindfulness practices like meditation, body awareness, and gentle movement. These tools help you become more present and respond to life’s challenges with clarity and calmness instead of reacting automatically.

You’ll learn techniques to reduce stress, cultivate emotional resilience, and improve overall mental and physical health. The course includes group discussions, weekly sessions, and even a full-day mindfulness retreat to deepen your practice. It’s great for anyone looking to handle stress better and find balance in their lives.

You can enroll in this program in South Africa at institutions like Integral Health in Cape Town. The course costs approximately R3,500 for the 8-week course, with flexible payment plans available.

8. Certificate in Narrative Therapy

The Certificate in Narrative Therapy is a counseling course that dives into how the stories we tell about our lives shape our experiences and relationships. Narrative therapy focuses on helping individuals reframe and rewrite these stories to empower them and bring positive change to their lives.

This approach is particularly useful for counselors, educators, and community leaders who want to help people better understand and navigate their personal challenges.

Through this course, you’ll learn essential skills like active listening, guiding people through story reauthoring, and using conversations to inspire transformation. It’s not just about “telling stories”; it’s about deeply exploring and reshaping them for growth and healing.

In South Africa, Coram Deo offers programs in narrative therapy at R1,900 with a registration fee of R400.

9. Certificate in Crisis Intervention

A Certificate in Crisis Intervention is a great option for anyone looking to make a real difference in people’s lives during their most challenging times. This course teaches practical skills for providing immediate emotional support to individuals facing crises like trauma, loss, or other difficult situations.

You’ll learn how to assess situations, provide initial care, and make appropriate referrals for professional help when needed. Topics often include handling trauma, suicide prevention, and working with diverse communities.

In South Africa, SACAP Global offers a related program called Effective Crisis & Trauma Management, which focuses on bio-psycho-social-spiritual approaches to caregiving, suicide assessment, and understanding trauma and HIV/AIDS caregiving. While it’s tailored for lay counselors, it equips you with essential tools to support others compassionately. The course costs R2,100.

10. Certificate in Art Therapy

Art therapy is a fantastic course that combines creativity with mental health support, using art to help people express emotions, work through challenges, and heal. It’s perfect for those who love helping others and believe in the power of creativity.

A great option is the 5-Day Art Therapy Intensive Course in Cape Town by Art Therapy South Africa. It’s a hands-on, immersive experience where you’ll learn about the theory behind art therapy, explore case studies, and practice using art as a therapeutic tool. The course costs R12,800 and offers a meaningful way to develop skills in self-expression, empathy, and creative problem-solving.

Lefika La Phodiso Training also offers this course. The online training costs R15 000 but if you pay for all eight modules up front you will receive a 10% discount. Payment of the course on a module by module basis will cost R1 875 per module.

11. Certificate in Music Therapy

A Certificate in Music Therapy is an exciting and impactful course that combines the power of music with therapeutic practices to help individuals improve their emotional, physical, and mental well-being.

Essentially, it’s about learning how to use music as a tool to connect, heal, and support people facing challenges such as stress, trauma, developmental disorders, or neurological conditions.

This course typically involves training in music theory, psychology, and practical therapeutic techniques. You’ll gain skills in using instruments, vocals, and other musical activities to create personalized therapy sessions. A significant part of the program includes clinical internships, where you’ll work under supervision to apply what you’ve learned in real-world settings.

The University of Pretoria offers this music therapy training, and the annual tuition for domestic students is 80,000 ZAR.

12. Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

A Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is an excellent option for anyone interested in learning how to help people manage their emotions, change negative thought patterns, and improve their mental health.

CBT focuses on understanding the link between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, offering practical strategies to help individuals address challenges like anxiety, depression, and stress.

This course covers topics such as CBT principles, intervention strategies, client assessment, and practical techniques to support therapeutic change. It’s ideal for psychologists, counselors, social workers, or anyone looking to start or deepen a career in mental health care. The training develops skills in communication, emotional regulation, and problem-solving.

Acacia Training offers this course at R8,759.

13. Certificate in Play Therapy

The Certificate in Play Therapy is a fantastic course designed for anyone passionate about helping children navigate emotional or behavioral challenges. This program uses play—a natural way children express themselves—as a tool to address and heal emotional issues.

It blends both non-directive (child-led) and directive (therapist-guided) approaches, grounded in humanistic psychology and the theories of renowned experts like Carl Rogers and John Bowlby.

Students will develop skills in therapeutic play, learning how to create safe environments where children feel free to express themselves. The program also teaches the use of creative tools like art, storytelling, and movement. Upon completion, you’ll have the practical tools to work with children dealing with trauma, anxiety, or other difficulties.

In South Africa, this course is offered by Play Therapy Training South Africa in partnership with international institutions. The Postgraduate Certificate costs approximately R49,500 and includes clinical hours for certification. Additional costs include PTI membership and supervision.

14. Certificate in Somatic Experiencing

The Certificate in Somatic Experiencing (SE) is an incredible program for anyone interested in helping people heal from trauma in a more holistic way.

This course focuses on understanding how trauma affects the body and the nervous system and teaches techniques to release stress and tension stored in the body. It’s about helping people feel safe and empowered in their bodies again.

During the program, you’ll learn skills like identifying trauma responses, using touch therapy responsibly, and guiding clients through sensations to resolve stress. The training is hands-on, combining theory with practice to make sure you’re fully equipped.

You can go for this course at the Somatic Experiencing Southern Africa. It costs R18,000 per person with a registration deposit of R3,000.

15. Certificate in Sports Psychology

A Certificate in Sports Psychology is an excellent choice if you’re passionate about understanding the mental side of sports performance and how athletes can improve their focus, resilience, and overall well-being. It is one of the best counselling courses online.

This course goes into how psychological principles apply to sports, including motivation, goal-setting, handling pressure, and team dynamics. You’ll learn skills like mental coaching, enhancing performance, and fostering a positive sports culture—useful not just for athletes but also for coaches and sports organizations.

You can go for this course at Trifocus Fitness Academy. The course costs R3,600 with an upfront payment, or R9,000 with a payment plan. There is also a 60% discount with an upfront payment.

Read: List of Tshwane South College Courses | Fee Structure

Counselling Courses and Requirements in South Africa

To become a counselor in South Africa, you must meet specific academic, practical, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a breakdown:

General Requirements:

Complete a Program:
- Earn a BPsych or BPsych-equivalent degree from an accredited institution.
- Programs must include a mix of theoretical and practical components focusing on psychological counseling.
Gain Practical Hours:
- Complete 720 hours of supervised practical training during or after your studies, as required by the program.
Pass a Board Exam:
- Successfully pass the HPCSA Board Exam to demonstrate your readiness to practice professionally.
Register with the HPCSA:
- Register as a “Registered Counsellor” with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) to obtain legal certification for practicing.

Additional Requirements for School Counselors:

Bachelor’s Degree with Psychology:
- Major in Psychology and at least one other school subject.
Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE):
- Obtain a PGCE to qualify for teaching roles within schools.
HPCSA Registration:
- Maintain registration with the HPCSA as a counselor.

Optional or Additional Recommendations:

Postgraduate Studies:
- Pursue a Master’s degree in Psychology or Educational Psychology for advanced roles or specialization.
Continued Professional Development (CPD):
- Engage in CPD activities to maintain and enhance your skills and stay updated with industry standards.
Work Experience:
- Accumulate additional experience through internships, volunteering, or professional roles in schools, clinics, or community programs.

Where Can I Study Counselling in South Africa?

Here are five institutions in South Africa where you can study counselling, along with brief details and links to their programs:

University of Pretoria
Offers a Master’s degree in Counselling Psychology that includes coursework, a research component, and a one-year internship under Wits. The program prepares students for registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA). Learn more.
Nelson Mandela University
Provides a two-year Master’s program in Counselling Psychology focusing on theoretical modules, practical training, and a 12-month internship. Students also complete a research treatise. Learn more.
Rhodes University
Offers a Master’s in Counselling Psychology with modules in psychological assessment, interventions, professional practice, and research. Students complete an internship and a national board exam for professional registration. Learn more.
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
Wits provides a Master’s in Community-Based Counselling Psychology. The program emphasizes research, practical training, and community engagement, preparing students for diverse counselling roles. Learn more.
Stellenbosch University
Offers a Counselling Psychology program with a focus on practical training and research. The program is aligned with HPCSA requirements, enabling students to pursue professional registration. Learn more

Also, read: List of Boston City Campus Courses and Fees | Fee Structures

FAQs

What qualifications do I need to be a counsellor in South Africa?

To become a counsellor in South Africa, register with the HPCSA as a “Registered Counsellor.” This requires completing a Bpsych or equivalent program, 720 practical hours, and passing a board exam.

How long does it take to become a Counselling psychologist in South Africa?

Becoming a counselling psychologist in South Africa takes 6–9 years: a 3-year undergraduate degree, 1–2 years for Honours, 1–2 years for Masters, 1-year internship, and optional community service.

What is the difference between a psychologist and a Counsellor?

Psychologists diagnose and treat mental health disorders, often using research and assessments, while counsellors focus on helping clients manage life challenges, offering guidance and emotional support without diagnosing disorders.

Conclusion

So, if you’re considering enrolling in counselling courses, remember that this is about more than just learning skills – it’s about making a real impact on people’s lives. Counselling isn’t about solving every problem for someone, but guiding them to find their own solutions in a supportive, understanding environment. With the right training, you’ll be equipped to offer meaningful help and make a lasting difference.