Market demand for counsellors and other professionals: 1984-1990

Abstract

Despite rapid growth in the number of counsellors, almost no data are available concerning labour market demand, and the expectations of employers. This study surveyed 6298 positions available to counsellors, psychologists, social workers and occupational therapists in the state of New South Wales during the years 1984-1990. Over this period the demand for counsellors grew by 148%, a figure which far exceeded that of psychologists, social workers or occupational therapists. Only the demand for community mental health workers increased at a faster rate. The employment base for counsellors was concentrated in community health, hospital, welfare, corrective services and education. The main duties of counsellors were in counselling, community education and liaison, program development, drug and alcohol services, family case work, group work, assessment and testing, individual case work, and staff development and education. Counsellors were distinguished from psychologists and other health professionals by the emphasis placed on counselling, program development and the provision of drug and alcohol services. The number of advertised duties expected of counsellors increased by 29% over the six years, and there was an increased demand for the skills with which counsellors were identified. The demand for prior work experience and a postgraduate qualification also increased over time, whilst there was a decline in the proportion of senior positions. The results are discussed in terms of the need for the counselling profession to be more market oriented, and for certain critical employment-related skills to be incorporated into the education of counsellors.