Counselling
If you are called to serve others through healing hearts, minds and relationships, Laidlaw College’s School of Counselling offers a uniquely integrated approach to counselling.
Counselling
Te Puna Mātauranga Kaiako
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Counselling
Te Puna Mātauranga Kaiako
If you are called to serve others through healing hearts, minds and relationships, Laidlaw offers a uniquely integrated approach to counselling and relational studies. Becoming a registered counsellor through Laidlaw provides a comprehensive educational programme for training in this deeply significant ministry.
- It's been, honestly, transformational
I knew the program would challenge me, but what I didn't expect was how much support there was, and how it was built not just to give me head knowledge, but to actually help me become a counsellor. On placement this year, I helped someone talk through a problem, and they left feeling more hopeful and at peace than when they came in. I realised I'd actually developed these skills without even noticing."
Joshua Taylor | Bachelor of Counselling Student
Programme
Our three-year Bachelor of Counselling (BCouns) degree prepares you to be eligible for provisional membership with NZAC and NZCCA. With Christian thought and practice integrated throughout, and with a uniquely immersive mix of classroom, practicum, group and mentored learning, the BCouns is for those who want to build a career in counselling, or those who want to develop lifelong skills for working with people.
Students can study towards the BCouns on campus in Henderson or Christchurch, with part-time options available. Graduates are prepared for professional counselling work in a variety or roles and settings which may include personal counselling, private practice, schools, churches or social service agencies.
What You'll Learn
The Bachelor of Counselling equips students with a broad range of counselling skills, theoretical knowledge, and professional competencies.
Areas of study include:
- Counselling theory and practice
- Professional ethics
- Human development
- Mental health and wellbeing
- Trauma and relational abuse
- Family systems
- Bicultural counselling practice
- Reflective practice and supervision
- Research and professional development
Person-Centred Therapy
Person-centred therapy emphasises the healing potential of a genuine therapeutic relationship. Students learn how to create safe, empathic, and respectful counselling environments that support personal growth and change.
Narrative Therapy
Narrative therapy explores how people’s lives are shaped by the stories they tell about themselves and the influences of their social and cultural contexts. Students learn how to help clients develop new perspectives and create more life-giving narratives.
Why study Counselling at Laidlaw?
NZAC-Accredited Professional Training
The BCouns is an accredited counsellor education programme recognised by the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC). Graduates are eligible to apply for provisional membership with NZAC and meet the requirements for provisional membership with the New Zealand Christian Counsellors Association (NZCCA).
Personal Formation at the Centre
Counselling is more than learning techniques. Effective counsellors develop self-awareness, emotional maturity, and the capacity to engage deeply with others. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to reflect on their own life experiences and develop the personal resilience required for professional practice.
Christian Faith Integration
All students complete a core of biblical and theological studies alongside counselling courses. This provides a strong foundation for integrating Christian faith, values, and professional counselling practice.
Bicultural Commitment
The programme reflects Aotearoa New Zealand’s bicultural context through dedicated courses, engagement with Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and a Noho Marae experience. Students develop the cultural understanding needed to work respectfully and effectively with diverse communities.
Real-World Experience
Students complete 200 hours of supervised counselling practice through placements in schools, churches, social service agencies, and community organisations, developing confidence and competence in real counselling settings.
- People know who I am here — I'm not lost in the crowd, and I get the support that I need.
Walking into my first day of practicum, I had a lot of nerves and questions about whether this was really my calling. But as soon as my client came in, there was a real sense of ease — just being present with someone and giving them an hour of undivided attention. I knew there could be healing and transformational power in that space."
Victoria Woodfield | Bachelor of Counselling Student
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Bachelor of Counselling work across a wide range of professional settings, including:
- Schools and educational environments
- Community and social service organisations
- Family support services
- Faith-based organisations
- Chaplaincy and pastoral care
- Employee assistance and workplace wellbeing services
- Youth and community development programmes
- Private practice pathways
Many graduates also continue into postgraduate study and advanced professional training.
Graduate Profile
Graduates of the Bachelor of Counselling are:
Professionally Prepared
Equipped with the knowledge, skills, and supervised practice experience required for entry into the counselling profession.
Theologically Informed
Able to thoughtfully integrate Christian faith and professional practice in ways that support the wellbeing of individuals, families, and communities.
Relationally Skilled
Competent in working with emotions, meaning-making, relationships, and the social contexts that shape people’s lives.
Reflective Practitioners
Committed to ongoing learning, supervision, self-reflection, and professional development.
- I've learned to be jesus in the room.
Studying counselling was a dream of mine for a long time — I've always loved the idea of helping people through my faith. Laidlaw has made it possible for me to integrate my faith with my counselling, without pushing it onto my clients. I've learned to be Jesus in the room, without even having to mention his name."
Janai Randall | Bachelor of Counselling Graduate
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a counsellor in New Zealand?
The Bachelor of Counselling is a three-year full-time degree that provides the professional training, supervised practice, and academic preparation required for entry into the counselling profession.
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Is the Bachelor of Counselling NZAC accredited?
Yes. The programme is recognised by the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) as an accredited counsellor education programme.
Do I need to have my own counselling?
Yes. Students complete personal counselling throughout the programme to support their personal development and professional formation.
Requirements include:
- 10 hours in Year One
- 5 hours in Year Two
- 5 hours in Year Three
Counselling must be undertaken with a full member of NZAC or NZCCA.
What additional costs should I expect?
In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for:
- Personal counselling: approximately $1,400–$2,400 across the programme
- Clinical supervision: approximately $1,750–$2,500 during practicum placement
- Textbooks: approximately $500–$800 per year
What special topics can I focus on beyond the core modalities in the programme?
Elective options and specialised courses allow students to explore areas such as:
- Trauma and relational abuse
- Addictions counselling
- Pasifika families and communities
- Diversity and inclusion
Can I study by distance?
The BCouns is primarily a campus-based programme delivered in Henderson (Auckland) and Christchurch. While some courses may be available online, the programme’s emphasis on relational learning, process groups, and professional formation means it is not currently offered as a fully distance programme.
How do I apply?
Applicants must be at least 20 years old and meet university entrance requirements.
The application process includes:
● Academic eligibility assessment
● Professional references
● Police vetting
● Selection interview
Applications can be submitted online through the Laidlaw College website.
Ready to Deepen Your Understaning and Discover Your Calling?
Whether you are preparing for ministry, exploring theology for personal growth, pursuing Christian leadership, or considering advanced theological research, Laidlaw College offers flexible pathways that combine academic excellence, spiritual formation, and practical application. Join a community committed to thoughtful faith, lifelong learning, and meaningful service. Apply today or experience life at Laidlaw by becoming a Student for a Day.