In a nutshell
The online CHC43315 Certificate IV in Mental Health course from Open Colleges teaches you the essential skills needed to work in mental health services.
Ideal for those already working in the sector or individuals looking to enter the field for the first time, this online course provides students with the skills to understand mental health diagnoses, establish communication with clients to support recovery, reflect cultural awareness in work practice, and provide effective intervention for individuals at risk of self-harm or suicide.
Students will also develop the competencies to support clients with a dual diagnosis and liaise with other support services to address co-existing issues. Successful completion of this certificate will enable you to apply evidence-based theory to the development of community rehabilitation programs and work to create a greater awareness of the importance of promoting positive mental health practices.
Practical work placement
This certificate includes a mandatory work placement of at least 120 hours, in order to acquire essential practical skills. You will be required to source your own placement with an organisation involved in the delivery of mental health services.
What you’ll need
There are no formal educational perquisites for this course.
Age requirements:
Students are required to be at least 18 years of age.
English proficiency:
- Entry to the course requires the successful completion of English to Year 12 level; or
- Successful completion of a Nationally Recognised Training qualification at Certificate III level or higher; or
- 3 years relevant industry experience in a role that requires the use of written documentation and communication.
Computing:
- You will need access to a reliable computer and an internet connections, as well as basic computer skills.
Physical requirements:
Students will need to be reasonably physically fit to undertake the work placement as the tasks and activities associated with the work placement may involve manual handling and other physical activities.
Mental health skills:
During work placement you will be responsible for providing support and services to individuals and families experiencing mental health issues. This may include confidential individual, family, supporting families dealing with mental health issues, working with clients who have complex needs and working with children and young people experiencing abuse. It is important that you are able to work cooperatively in a team, act with cultural sensitivity, be accepting of diversity and be non-judgemental.
Subject summary
In this mental health course, the subjects you may study include:
- CHCCOM002 - Use communication to build relationships
- CHCLEG001 - Work legally and ethically
- CHCMHS007 - Work effectively in trauma informed care
- CHCCCS004 - Assess co-existing needs
- CHCMHS005 - Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues
- CHCHIV001 -Work with diverse people
- CHCHIV002 - Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety
- CHCAOD001 - Work in an alcohol and other drugs context
- CHCCCS003 - Increase the safety of individuals at risk of suicide
- CHCMS004 - Work collaboratively with the care network and other services
- HLTWHS001 - Participate in work health and safety
- CHCMHS008 - Promote and facilitate self advocacy
Why Open Colleges?

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Open Colleges has been helping Australians realise their potential for over 125 years, and they're now one of Australia's leaders in online education. In the last decade alone, they've helped over 450,000 students gain the skills to launch, change or take the next step in their careers.
The common misconception is that studying online means that you’re studying alone, but at Open Colleges, they take great pride in the superior support provided to their students. They make it easy for you to get support when you need it with their student support team available Monday to Friday via email, phone and Live Chat and on the weekends, via Live Chat (when available). They’re here, in tandem with trainers and assessors, to make sure you’re supported the whole way through your course, from the time you enrol right through to your graduation.