Community Counselling and Wellbeing Programme (CCW): Occupational Certificate – Social Counselling Worker
SAQA ID: 111142 | Credits: 143 | Duration: 12 Months | Accredited by: QCTO | NQF Level: 5 | Entry Requirements: Matric or equivalent, English proficiency, Computer Literacy
Support mental health and wellbeing in your community. This 12-month qualification equips learners with practical counselling skills, wellness models, ethical frameworks, and communication techniques. Ideal for individuals pursuing careers in social support, wellness, or community development.
Description
✅ Purpose and Rationale
This qualification prepares learners to work as Social Counselling Workers, providing support to individuals and groups within a defined scope of practice. It addresses the growing need for accessible, community-based mental health and wellbeing services in South Africa.
Learners are trained to conduct screenings, assessments, and basic counselling interventions, while adhering to ethical and legal standards. The programme promotes a holistic understanding of wellness and equips learners to build trust, foster resilience, and support diverse populations.
📘 Qualification Rules
The qualification is structured into three components:
Knowledge Modules (43 credits):
- Fundamentals of screening and assessment
- Paradigm shifts in counselling
- Wellbeing models and frameworks
- Norms, values, and ethics in counselling
- Legal and socio-economic considerations
Practical Skills Modules (40 credits):
- Counselling techniques and relationship building
- Group counselling and coping mechanisms
- Professional communication and conduct
- Application of wellness strategies
Work Experience Modules (60 credits):
- Real-world counselling scenarios
- Client interaction and trust-building
- Ethical decision-making and documentation
- Community engagement and support delivery
🎯 Exit Level Outcomes
Graduates will be able to:
- Conduct basic screening and assessments within a counselling context
- Apply appropriate counselling techniques and wellness models
- Build and sustain professional relationships with clients
- Communicate effectively and ethically in diverse settings
- Understand and apply legal, social, and cultural frameworks in counselling practice
🌍 International Comparability
This qualification aligns with global standards in community counselling and wellness support. It compares favourably with similar programmes in Australia, Canada, and the UK, offering a strong balance of theory, practical skills, and workplace experience. Its emphasis on ethics, diversity, and socio-cultural awareness makes it especially relevant in South Africa’s diverse communities.
🔗 Articulation Options
- Horizontal Articulation:
- Occupational Certificate: Community Health Worker (NQF Level 5)
- Occupational Certificate: Wellness Practitioner (NQF Level 5)
- Vertical Articulation:
- Diploma in Counselling or Psychology (NQF Level 6)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work or Mental Health Support
🧭 Who Should Enrol?
- Individuals passionate about mental health and wellbeing
- Community workers and volunteers
- HR and wellness officers
- Professionals seeking a career in counselling or social support
- Graduates looking to specialise in wellness and emotional intelligence





