Programme details

New Zealand Diploma in Health and Wellbeing- Mental Health Support

The Diploma in Mental Health Support aims to improve the skills of individuals in professional or voluntary roles who support mental health clients within caregiving teams, often aspiring to leadership positions.

Course description

This NZQA accredited Diploma in Mental Health Support (Work-integrated) (Level 5) program is tailored for individuals currently employed or aspiring to work in the mental health field, aiming for career progression or professional development. The health and wellbeing sector in New Zealand stands to gain from graduates equipped with expertise in mental health and strategic planning to assist clients and their families in optimizing health and wellbeing outcomes. Mental health organizations and aged care facilities will benefit from graduates who have engaged in studies that incorporate practical experience within workplace environments.

Graduates of this program will possess the ability to operate autonomously, developing and adjusting mental health strategies while delivering culturally sensitive and responsive care in a mental health support context.

Specialisations

Following this course may lead to residency pathways after working in New Zealand for 2 years as a caregiver.

Career Prospects

Employment pathways include working as:

-Team leader or supervisor in home/community care
-Team leader in Department of Corrections health facilities
-Team leader in mental health organisations

Entry requirements

-A minimum of 18 years of age.
-Academic Criteria: NCEA Level 2 or,
Level 4 or above on the NZQF (New Zealand Qualifications Framework) with mental health unit standards/papers or equivalent.
Applicants over the age of 20 years who do not have the minimum entry requirements may be admitted.
-All applicants must show experience as a healthcare assistant level 4 or equivalent, and be employed as a healthcare assistant level 4 with h mental health experience and current clients, and current clients.
-All applicants must supply a copy of their signed employment contract with dates coinciding with the programme duration and clear evidence that the 250 hours of work-integrated experience s likely and that the position description can facilitate the learning.
-Clean criminal record (an initial check will be completed through the New Zealand Police to ensure the learner is a fit and proper person to be working with vulnerable people, should the learner not have one)
-Physically able to do the job
-Willingness to work with older person
– Attend interview
-English Language Competency-Academic IELTS overall 5.5 gained (with no band less than 5.0) or equivalent international test as per NZQA’s Table of Internationally Recognised English Language Proficiency Outcomes for International Students. The test results must be no more than two years old.
-A signed letter of support from the Employer stating that the student will be supported in undertaking a minimum of 250 hours employment for the workplace experience.
-Police Check: Clear Criminal Check – An initial check is to be provided from the country of last abode.