Since 2019, male enrolments in the Diploma of Counselling have increased by 50 per cent, highlighting a growing interest among men in pursuing careers in community services, counselling and psychology, fields traditionally dominated by women.
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, 43 per cent of Australian males experience a mental health problem at some point in their lives, with seven men dying by suicide each day, but only a quarter seek professional help.
Looking to make a difference is TAFE NSW Diploma of Counselling graduate Stuart Melvin, 53, a former TV producer who is now working as a frontline worker and shift supervisor at Wayside Chapel.
“I wanted to pursue a more meaningful career,” Stuart said.
“After I completed the training through Lifeline, I realised counselling came naturally to me.
“In 2023 I enrolled in the Diploma of Counselling course at TAFE NSW and it was the best decision. I loved the face-to-face interaction, the practical projects, role plays, and the collegial environment. I apply the skills I learnt every day.”
Electrician and Bankstown Diploma of Counselling student Martin Díaz, 35, was inspired to study counselling because of his own transformative experience receiving therapy.
“Pursuing a career in counselling is something I’d been considering for years,” he said.
“I’ve had a tough life and when my uncle recommended I see a counsellor, I found it hard to take that first step. Seeing a counsellor literally saved my life.
“The Diploma of Counselling course has been fantastic in helping me learn how to build rapport and help people open up so we can help them.”
To find out more: tafensw.edu.au.
Boom in males as counsellors
AS mental health concerns continue to surge among men, TAFE NSW Bankstown is training an increasing number of male community service workers to tackle men’s mental health.
