If you would like to become a mental health support worker, then this programme is for you. The programme will provide you with the skills and knowledge to ensure safe practice and to be able to link workplace experiences with theoretical knowledge. This national certificate is not designed to qualify people to be clinical mental health practitioners.

What will this programme cover?

Alcohol and other drug use

• Cultural issues
• Intervention
• Support and minimisation of harm for users
• Involvement of family and whãnau in mental health support work
• Relationship considerations between the mental health support worker and family/whãnau
• Human rights principles and legal issues in mental health work including consumer/tangata whai ora rights
• Management of potential risks
• Supervision
• Group work theory and practice
• Conflict resolution

Employment in the Mental Health Sector is desirable.

Related Careers

Mental Health Support Work for agencies and district health boards.

What do you need to apply?

For entry to this certificate it is desirable you have a minimum (or equivalent) of 48 credits at NCEA Level 2, made up of at least 12 credits at NCEA Level 2 in (English), 12 credits at NCEA Level 2 in (Maths), a minimum of 12 credits at NCEA Level 2 in at least two other subjects.

If you don't have the stated entry criteria, talk to us about whether you have the equivalent skills and knowledge or to determine if this is the right programme for you.

You may also be asked to attend an interview. Applicants are required to complete a police record check.

Programme Recognition

This programme is accredited by NZQA and moderated by Careerforce (CSSITO).

Note: Students on the programme may already be employed in the Mental Health Sector.

Further Study Options

Diploma in Mental Health (Mental Health Support Work)
(Level 6)