Mid-Life Career Change: From Overwhelmed Learner to Qualified Christian Counsellor - aifc
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“You have been equipped for this”

Sharon’s journey from overwhelmed learner to qualified Christian counsellor
At her recent graduation, Sharon stood before a packed room and opened her speech with honesty and grace:

“There were definitely moments when I was practically begging for divine intervention. But just when I thought I had nothing left, God would provide the strength, the wisdom, or even just the quiet reassurance that I was on the right path.”

Like so many, Sharon didn’t begin this journey knowing all the answers. She began with a whisper of calling and a leap of faith.

 

From self-doubt to sacred work
Sharon applied to study counselling in her mid-40s, nervous she might be too old or unable to remember how to study. But what she discovered surprised her:

“I Googled it — turns out, the average age of a counselling student is mid-to-late 40s. I wasn’t an anomaly. I was trending.”

Her studies didn’t just prepare her professionally. They transformed her personally.
Through AIFC’s Christ-centred training, Sharon deepened her faith, overcame fear, and discovered how to walk alongside others in their healing with clarity, skill, and compassion.

“This isn’t just a job or a career. It’s sacred work. We’re not here to fix. We’re here to walk alongside.”

Watch Sharon’s full story in conversation with AIFC’s CEO
Filmed after her powerful graduation speech, this conversation reveals Sharon’s full journey. From anxious enrolment to launching her own counselling practice, she shares how God moved through her studies, what she learned about herself, and how you might be equipped to begin your own path as a Christian counsellor.

▶️ FREE WEBINAR

Click this link to register

Hosted by AIFC’s CEO, Nicholas Marks, with special guest Sharon Court – graduate, counsellor, and leader in Christian mental health.

Why choose AIFC?
  • ✅ Faith-integrated training
    Biblical worldview combined with professional counselling skills
  • ✅  Supportive community
    Study online with flexible options and strong mentoring
  • ✅  Accredited and recognised
    ACA and CCAA recognised qualifications
  • ✅  Real-world preparation
    Learn to walk alongside others with compassion and clarity

▶️ Watch Now — It’s Free

Ready to take the next step?

Watch Sharon Share Her Story

Studying at aifc

Have you thought about becoming a qualified counsellor? It’s a great opportunity to learn how you can extend God's love and grace to the hurting out in the community.

For those who would like to enrol in aifc’s accredited Christian counselling courses we have two intakes per year for courses commencing around the following months:

  • The beginning of each year in February
  • Mid-Year courses commence in July

Enrolment Season - opens approximately 2 months prior to our courses commencing. Enrol online here during our enrolment season.

We also offer two modes of study:

  1. Seminar Blended Mode - only 13 face-to-face days per year
  2. Online Supported Mode - study online only from anywhere

A Master of Counselling course was introduced in 2018.

Contact aifc

Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm