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252512 Counsel an individual in a structured environment

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SAQA REGISTRATION

SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE

252512 Counsel an individual in a structured environment 

LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT

2026-06-30

EXPIRY

The certificate cannot expire

DURATION

Zoom – 2 1/2 days online, connect with a Facilitator certain days online.

Elearning – learning is always online and you can start and pause at any time. Mostly you will watch videos in your own time. Completion, part-time doing assignment every evening this course should take you 5 to 7 days.

CERTIFICATE | SETA STATEMENT OF RESULTS

TrainYouCan continuously requests verifications with the ETDP SETA. The duration all depending on the availability of the ETDP SETA staff that can range from 6 week to 4 months.

ABOUT THIS COURSE

TRAINYOUCAN (ETDP SETA) Accredited Training Network and its members is committed to follow all the ETQA requirements as stipulated by SAQA. 

This is a generic Unit Standard for learners in a variety of counselling contexts where clients are enabled to go through the process of finding solutions to their concerns or difficulties. It is intended for learners who counsel people in a variety of situations, but who are not registered professionals such as qualified psychologist and social workers. It will be useful for counsellors in a variety of counselling contexts including, but not limited to, schools, Non-Governmental Organisations, Faith Based Organisations, the South African Police Service, Counselling Call Centres, Hospitals, Clinics and Support Agencies, Sports Centres, Education and Training facilities, Government and Health and Social Services facilities. It should develop learners who know their scope of practice, behave ethically in a counselling context, conform to minimum standards and know when to refer a client.

The qualifying learner is capable of:

  1. Explaining the functions and scope of practice of a counsellor.
  2. Setting up an enabling counselling environment.
  3. Explaining the principles and processes of counselling.
  4. Explaining the role of values in human behaviour and counselling.
  5. Applying a counselling process in a specific context.
  6. Reflecting on the counselling process.

COURSE SUMMARY

In particular, people credited with this unit standard are able to:

  1. The learner is able to identify and solve problems in which responses show that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made in counselling a client following a generally accepted counselling process.
  2. The learner is able to work effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation or community in that counselling involves working with at least one other person and learners at Level 4 counsel under supervision in a structured environment.
  3. The learner is able to organise and manage him/herself and his/her activities responsibly and effectively in planning and preparing for counselling sessions and recording and reporting on the outcomes.
  4. The learner is able to collect, organise and critically evaluate information in facilitating the counselling process and in investigating theories of counselling.
  5. The learner is able to communicate effectively in interacting with clients and supervisors.
  6. The learner is able to reflect on and explore a variety of strategies to learn more effectively in reflecting on the outcomes of counselling sessions exploring strategies to reduce burnout and secondary trauma.
  7. The learner is able to be culturally and aesthetically sensitive across a range of social contexts in understanding the importance of respect for diverse values and accommodating difference in counselling sessions.

Note: Any person who wants to offer their services as an accredited individual, company or a training provider can only do so with a valid SOR (Statement of Results) from the ETDP SETA. No other document/certificate can be used, even if it reflects the same unit standard.

ENROLLMENT REQUIREMENTS

      • It is recommended that learners are competent in Communication at NQF Level 3.

Basically, you must be able to read and write in English!

BOOKINGS

CURRENTLY, WE ARE FULLY ONLY WITH ELEARNING AND ZOOM ONLY!

BOOKINGS: Book online through our booking site www.coursesdirect.co.za here.

WHO SHOULD ATTEND THIS COURSE

WHO SHOULD ATTEND LAY COUNSELLING COURSE

      1. Explaining the functions and scope of practice of a counsellor.
      2. Setting up an enabling counselling environment.
      3. Explaining the principles and processes of counselling.
      4. Explaining the role of values in human behaviour and counselling.
      5. Applying a counselling process in a specific context.
      6. Reflecting on the counselling process.
        • People who want to work internationally, as my countries accept this certificate in Africa and internationally.

BONUS DISCUSSIONS

BONUS DISCUSSIONS AND HANDOUTS DURING THIS COURSE

As a valued customer the following is included as standard practices in TRAINYOUCAN induction of accredited course, namely:

  1. Detailed induction of the SETA, SAQA, NQF and Credits.
  2. Detailed explanation on the types of accreditation found, namely individual, training provider and programme accreditation.
  3. Difference between unit standards and qualifications with detailed explanation.
  4. FREE templates and resources on this topic, ready to be downloaded to use from our members forum.
  5. FREE resources on compiling your personal CV and registration with the SETA for Assessors and Moderators.
  6. Learners will create during the contact session their own Training Checklist, Training Venue Checklist and Training Evaluation, ready to be used in the workplace.
  7. Two complete learning programmes, namely “Fire Fighting” will be provided to each learner in the class to assist them with their presentations. We provide you will all the documents and templates required.

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JOB OPPORTUNITIES

  • With a lay counseling certificate, you can pursue various job opportunities in South Africa, especially in fields that focus on providing emotional, psychological, and social support to individuals and communities. Lay counselors are trained to provide basic counseling services, assist in crisis situations, and offer emotional support, often working under the supervision of qualified professionals. While lay counselors are not licensed psychologists or therapists, their skills are valuable in community and healthcare settings where mental health support is needed. Here are the key job opportunities available for people with a lay counseling certificate:

    1. Community Lay Counselor

    • Roles: Provide basic counseling services and emotional support within community-based organizations, NGOs, or faith-based organizations. You may assist individuals dealing with personal issues, trauma, grief, or family conflict, and help refer them to professional services when necessary.
    • Sector Importance: Many communities in South Africa, particularly in rural and underserved areas, rely on lay counselors to provide mental health and social support services, making this a crucial role in community development and care.

    2. School Lay Counselor

    • Roles: Work in schools to offer counseling and emotional support to students dealing with academic stress, bullying, peer pressure, family issues, or mental health concerns. You may also assist in promoting mental health awareness and support students in building coping strategies.
    • Sector Importance: With the growing focus on learner well-being and mental health in South Africa’s education system, schools often hire lay counselors to support students’ emotional and psychological needs.

    3. HIV/AIDS Counselor

    • Roles: Provide counseling and support to individuals diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, as well as their families. You’ll offer pre- and post-test counseling, help individuals cope with their diagnosis, encourage treatment adherence, and provide education about living with HIV/AIDS.
    • Sector Importance: South Africa has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, and lay counselors play an essential role in helping individuals navigate the emotional challenges of living with the disease. Many NGOs, government programs, and healthcare facilities hire HIV/AIDS counselors.

    4. Trauma Support Worker

    • Roles: Offer counseling and support to individuals who have experienced traumatic events such as violence, abuse, accidents, or natural disasters. As a trauma support worker, you help clients process their experiences, develop coping mechanisms, and work through the initial stages of healing.
    • Sector Importance: Given the high levels of violence and crime in some areas of South Africa, trauma counseling is in high demand, particularly in community centers, crisis response teams, and victim support programs.

    5. Substance Abuse Support Counselor

    • Roles: Work with individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction issues. You’ll provide counseling and support to help individuals manage their recovery, educate them on the dangers of substance abuse, and offer guidance on accessing rehabilitation programs.
    • Sector Importance: Substance abuse is a major public health issue in South Africa, and lay counselors often work in rehabilitation centers, community programs, and support groups to help individuals on their recovery journeys.

    6. Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Counselor

    • Roles: Provide emotional support and counseling to survivors of gender-based violence, helping them process their trauma, regain a sense of safety, and access legal or medical services when needed. GBV counselors often work with women’s shelters, community organizations, and advocacy groups.
    • Sector Importance: Gender-based violence is a serious concern in South Africa, and there is a strong demand for counselors to provide support to survivors, making this a critical area of lay counseling.

    7. Peer Counselor

    • Roles: Peer counselors work in various settings, including schools, universities, and workplaces, providing support to peers who are facing emotional, academic, or social challenges. Peer counselors use their shared experiences to offer guidance and encouragement in a non-judgmental manner.
    • Sector Importance: Peer counseling is important in environments where individuals may feel more comfortable seeking help from someone they perceive as an equal, and lay counselors are key to providing this type of support.

    8. Family and Relationship Support Counselor

    • Roles: Assist individuals and families dealing with relationship issues, conflict, or crises. This could involve offering emotional support, facilitating communication between family members, and helping clients find solutions to their interpersonal challenges.
    • Sector Importance: Family dynamics can be a source of stress for many individuals, and lay counselors are often called upon to mediate conflicts and provide guidance on managing family-related issues.

    9. Grief and Bereavement Counselor

    • Roles: Support individuals and families experiencing grief and loss, helping them process their emotions and find ways to cope with the death of a loved one. This role often involves providing emotional support and helping individuals work through the stages of grief.
    • Sector Importance: Many people struggle with bereavement, and lay counselors are crucial in helping them find support and understanding during difficult times, often working in hospitals, community centers, or religious organizations.

    10. Crisis Helpline Operator

    • Roles: Provide telephone or online counseling services to individuals in crisis. This could involve helping callers navigate issues such as mental health crises, suicidal thoughts, domestic violence, or severe anxiety. You’ll offer emotional support, guide callers through their immediate concerns, and refer them to further resources.
    • Sector Importance: Crisis helplines are essential in providing immediate support to people in distress, and lay counselors are often the first point of contact for individuals seeking urgent help.

    11. Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Support Worker

    • Roles: Work with NGOs to provide lay counseling as part of larger community development, healthcare, or social justice programs. Your role may involve offering support and counseling in various capacities, such as helping vulnerable populations, including refugees, people affected by poverty, or those recovering from trauma.
    • Sector Importance: NGOs play a vital role in addressing social and mental health issues in South Africa, and many rely on lay counselors to provide on-the-ground emotional support.

    12. Mental Health Advocacy Worker

    • Roles: Work with mental health advocacy organizations to provide basic counseling services and raise awareness about mental health issues in the community. You may assist in campaigns, educational workshops, and outreach programs that promote mental health awareness and access to services.
    • Sector Importance: Mental health advocacy is increasingly important in South Africa as the stigma around mental illness decreases, and there is a growing need for lay counselors to help bridge the gap between individuals and mental health services.

    13. Workplace Lay Counselor (Employee Assistance Program – EAP)

    • Roles: Offer counseling and emotional support to employees in the workplace, helping them manage stress, work-life balance, interpersonal conflicts, or personal issues that may affect their job performance. Workplace counselors are part of Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) that promote employee well-being.
    • Sector Importance: Many companies recognize the importance of employee mental health, and lay counselors play a significant role in helping workers manage stress and remain productive.

    14. Youth Counselor

    • Roles: Provide counseling and support to young people facing issues such as peer pressure, academic stress, mental health challenges, or family problems. Youth counselors help young individuals build resilience, develop coping skills, and navigate adolescence.
    • Sector Importance: Youth in South Africa face many social and psychological challenges, and youth-focused NGOs, schools, and community centers often hire lay counselors to provide much-needed emotional support.

    Conclusion

    A lay counseling certificate opens up a variety of job opportunities in South Africa, particularly in community-based organizations, schools, healthcare settings, and NGOs. Lay counselors play a critical role in providing emotional support, addressing mental health concerns, and helping individuals navigate life’s challenges, particularly in underserved areas where access to formal psychological services may be limited. Lay counseling is a rewarding career path that allows you to make a positive impact on individuals and communities in need.