The Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Psychology is an NZQF Level 8 qualification worth 120 points. It provides advanced professional education in counselling psychology through supervised clinical practice, academic coursework and a structured internship.

This programme is not available for direct entry. It is the final component of AUT's integrated professional psychology pathway and is intended for students who have already completed the Master of Health Science (Psychology) at AUT and meet the registration requirements of the New Zealand Psychologists Board. Successful completion enables graduates to satisfy the academic and supervised practice requirements for psychologist registration in the counselling psychology scope (subject to New Zealand Psychologists Board approval).

Why Study the Postgraduate Diploma in Counselling Psychology at AUT?

• Complete the final professional qualification required for the counselling psychology registration pathway in New Zealand.
• Gain extensive supervised clinical internship experience.
• Learn from experienced counselling psychologists and clinical academics.
• Integrate psychological theory, research and professional practice.
• Develop advanced assessment, intervention and counselling skills.
• Complete the required 1,500 hours of supervised professional practice.
• Strong focus on scientist-practitioner and evidence-based practice.
• Graduate ready for psychologist registration (subject to regulatory approval).

Subjects / Topics Covered

The curriculum includes:

• Counselling Psychology Theory
• Professional Practice
• Clinical Assessment
• Psychological Intervention
• Counselling Approaches
• Scientist-Practitioner Model
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Mental Health and Wellbeing
• Cultural Perspectives in Psychology
• Professional Ethics
• Reflective Practice
• Supervised Clinical Practice
• Psychological Case Formulation
• Clinical Supervision

Disciplines / Areas of Focus

The programme focuses on:

• Counselling Psychology
• Mental Health
• Psychological Assessment
• Therapeutic Intervention
• Professional Psychology Practice
• Health Psychology
• Cultural Competency
• Evidence-Based Clinical Practice
• Clinical Supervision
• Psychological Wellbeing

Programme Highlights

• Professional NZQF Level 8 qualification.
• One-year intensive programme.
• Extensive 1,500-hour supervised internship.
• Strong integration of research and professional practice.
• Preparation for psychologist registration.
• Small professional cohort with close supervision.
• Training aligned with New Zealand Psychologists Board requirements.
• Focus on ethical, culturally responsive and evidence-based practice.

Career Outcomes

Graduates may progress to roles such as:

• Registered Counselling Psychologist*
• Mental Health Psychologist
• Community Psychologist
• Clinical Practitioner
• Psychological Services Provider
• Rehabilitation Psychologist
• Health Service Psychologist
• Private Practice Psychologist
• Government Mental Health Services
• Community Mental Health Agencies

Visa Requirements

International students generally require a New Zealand Student Visa to study full-time.

Typical requirements include:

• Offer of Place from AUT.
• Valid passport.
• Payment of tuition fees (where applicable).
• Evidence of sufficient funds for tuition and living expenses.
• Proof of English language proficiency.
• Medical examination and chest X-ray (if required).
• Police clearance certificate (if applicable).
• Approved medical and travel insurance.
• Compliance with Immigration New Zealand visa conditions.

Latest Updates / Special Requirements

• Programme Code: AK1232.
• Qualification Level: NZQF Level 8.
• Duration: 1 year full-time.
• Credits: 120 points.
• Start Date: 22 February 2027.
• Application Deadline: 30 October 2026.
• From 2027, admission is restricted to invited AUT Master of Health Science (Psychology) students.
• Direct entry is not permitted.
• Students must register as an Intern Psychologist and secure an approved internship placement.
• Completion of 1,500 supervised practice hours is mandatory.
• Additional interview and professional checks may apply.