The National Diploma in Mental Health (Mental Health Support Work) (Level 6) follows on from the National Certificate in Mental Health and Addictions Support (Level 4). It is designed for people who wish to develop a higher level of competence in mental health support work. These mental health support workers may have more seniority in the workplace, carry a higher level of responsibility, and engage in more complex relationships with consumers / tangata whai ora. They may also lead a team of mental health workers. This programme will help you develop the knowledge and skills to support consumers / tangata whai ora to achieve their recovery goals, provide support to their families / whānau, support consumers / tangata whai ora to manage their use of alcohol or other drugs, and support mental health consumers / tangata whai ora to access employment support services. You will be able to analyse discrimination, and implement both individual and community-based advocacy strategies in response to discrimination against consumers / tangata whai ora. You will develop an understanding of practice that is informed by ethical values, and the legal structures and laws that apply to mental health support work. You will be able to explain and apply knowledge of human development and health issues, and critique and interpret a research project relevant to a mental health service user group, and analyse leadership and lead a group or team to achieve mental health support work objectives.

The National Diploma in Mental Health (Mental Health Support Work) (Level 6) may lead to employment in senior roles / positions within the mental health support field, and community mental health agencies.