Postcode:
Resident:
Employed:
A Mental Health Worker provides care and assistance to people with mental health issues. The area of mental health is quite broad and can include mental illnesses, substance abuse and mental health problems associated with poverty.
The role of a Mental Health Worker includes building rapport with individuals suffering from mental health issues, writing reports, maintaining case notes, developing treatment plans, and utilising behavioural management strategies.
There are 13 courses available for people who want to become a Mental Health Worker. These are the top 5 most popular courses.
Possible job outcomes:
The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is for students wanting to work or volunteer providing support to people affected by mental illness or have a psychiatric disability. Students complete 15 units which focus heavily on foundation interpersonal skills such as building relationships, working collaboratively, and working with diverse cultural groups. Additionally, students graduate with practical skills and knowledge in trauma informed care, drug and alcohol issues affecting mental health and staying safe at work. To graduate and receive the qualification, each student must complete at least 80 hours of relevant work. The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
Average duration: 12 months.
A Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is perfect for students seeking careers as community services workers supporting people with mental health issues. Students learn about working collaboratively, maintaining personal safety, helping people affected by drugs and alcohol, facilitating recovery, as well as managing grief and trauma. The Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315 is a nationally recognised training qualification and part of the official Community Services Training Package..
The Diploma of Counselling is suitable for students seeking careers as counsellors working with clients on personal and psychological issues using established counselling modalities. Students graduate ready to work in supported counselling roles in established agencies rather than in independent practice. Students will learn about communication, micro-counselling and interviewing skills and how to draw on varied counselling therapies to assist clients..
Average duration: 24 months.
The Dual Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs & Certificate IV in Mental Health provides a comprehensive foundation in understanding substance abuse and mental health issues, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to provide effective support and intervention strategies in both domains. This program combines theoretical learning with practical training, preparing graduates to make a positive impact in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction and mental health challenges..
The Bachelor of Health and Community Services combines multiple key health and social science disciplines to arm students with the most effective collection of skills and knowledge required to make a positive difference in the growing field of community health care and social services..
Average duration: 36 months.
In Australia, a full-time Mental Health Worker generally earns $1440 per week ($74,880 annual salary) before tax. This is a median figure for full-time employees and should be considered a guide only.
Mental health is a growing industry and opportunities for Mental Health Workers are expected to increase over the coming years. It was estimated that the industry would increase by 22,000 roles between the years 2018 and 2023, which means about 4,400 additional roles are opening up each year. The majority of these roles are in healthcare, education and training, and public administration and safety.
Source: Australian Government Labour Market Insights
To become a Mental Health Worker, you will need to complete a relevant qualification. Options include Certificate IV in Mental Health or a Diploma of Mental Health, with each course taking 12 months to complete.
We’ll find nearby campuses and check if you’re eligible for funding in your state.
Here are some potential career pathways within counselling, mental health and psychology. Click on an occupation to learn more about the role and the qualifications that can help you get started in this industry.
Counselling
Support Worker
$960 weekly pay
Art Therapist
$1,250 weekly pay
Counsellor
$1,450 weekly pay
Crisis Support Worker
Family Counsellor
$1,150 weekly pay
Grief Counsellor
$1,652 weekly pay
Life Coach
Marriage Counsellor
Mental Health Clinician
Mental Health Counsellor
$1,635 weekly pay
Mental Health Practitioner
$1,500 weekly pay
Mental Health Social Worker
$1,736 weekly pay
Mental Health Support Worker
Mental Health Worker
$1,440 weekly pay
Music Therapist
Psychotherapist
Rehabilitation Counsellor
Relationship Counsellor
Social Worker
Student Counsellor
Substance Abuse Counsellor
Youth Counsellor
Career Counsellor
$2,115 weekly pay
Crisis Counsellor
Drug and Alcohol Counsellor
Family Dispute Resolution Practitioner
$1,920 weekly pay
Guidance Counsellor
$2,307 weekly pay
Mental Health
Intake Worker
$1,350 weekly pay
Mental Health Advocate
Mental Health Case Manager
Mental Health Nurse
$1,540 weekly pay
Mental Health Specialist
$1,760 weekly pay
Peer Support Worker
Wellbeing Coordinator
Psychology
Behaviour Therapist
Family Therapist
Psychological Researcher
Academic Psychologist
Behaviour Support Specialist
$1,730 weekly pay
Behavioural Psychologist
$2,066 weekly pay
Child Psychologist
Clinical Neuropsychologist
Clinical Psychologist
Community Psychologist
Counselling Psychologist
Developmental Psychologist
EAP Psychologist
Educational Psychologist
Forensic Psychologist
Health Psychologist
Neuropsychologist
Occupational Psychologist
Organisational Psychologist
Psychologist
Registered Psychologist
Research Psychologist
School Psychologist
Social Psychologist
Learn more about Mental Health Worker courses in your area.