Overview
Learning Objectives Overview
CHC53315 – Diploma of Mental Health prepares individuals to support clients dealing with mental health challenges by offering services such as counselling, referrals, advocacy, and education or health promotion. It equips learners with advanced knowledge, specialised skills, and competencies, particularly in understanding laws impacting individuals with mental health issues, the services available to them, and associated health concerns.
To successfully complete this qualification, students are required to undertake a minimum of 160 hours of practical work as specified in the Assessment Requirements for the units of competency.
At the time of publication, this qualification does not have any licensing, legislative, regulatory, or certification requirements.


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Course Duration
18 months
AQF Level
5
Study Mode
domestic
Delivery Locations
Melbourne, Perth, Sydney, Brisbane
Course Start Dates
13
January
2025
03
March
2025
05
May
2025
07
July
2025
01
September
2025
03
November
2025
Additional Details
Course Overview
The Diploma of Mental Health equips individuals with the skills to support people experiencing mental health challenges. The course covers mental health assessment, case management, and recovery-oriented care. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Mental Health Support Worker or Case Manager, working in various settings, including community services, healthcare, and residential facilities, to promote mental well-being and recovery.
Why study Diploma of Mental Health at IHNA?
- Flexible Learning: Online theory classes with on-campus simulation workshops.
- Guaranteed Placement: Gain hands-on experience with professional placements.
- Comprehensive Student Support: 24/7 access to resources, personalised guidance, and career support.
- Industry Connections: Network with healthcare leaders and gain real-world exposure.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Train with the latest equipment in modern learning environments
Course Structure
20 units are required for award of this qualification including:
- 15 core units
- 5 electives
CORE UNITS
CHCADV005 | Provide systems advocacy services |
CHCDIV001 | Work with Diverse people |
CHCDIV002 | Promote Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander cultural safety |
CHCMHS002 | Establish self-directed recovery relationships |
CHCMHS003 | Provide recovery oriented Mental health services |
CHCMHS004 | Work collaboratively with the care network and other services |
CHCMHS005 | Provide services to people with co-existing mental health and alcohol and other drugs issues |
CHCMHS009 | Provide early intervention, health prevention and promotion programs |
CHCMHS010 | Implement recovery oriented approaches to complexity |
CHCMHS011 | Assess and promote social, emotional and physical wellbeing |
CHCMHS012 | Provide support to develop wellness plans and advanced directives |
CHCMHS013 | Implement trauma informed care |
CHCPOL003 | Research and apply evidence to practice |
CHCPRP003 | Reflect on and improve own professional practice |
HLTWHS004 | Manage work health and safety |
ELECTIVES
CHCAOD001 | Work in an alcohol and other drugs context |
CHCEDU001 | Provide community focused health promotion and prevention strategies |
CHCCSM004 | Coordinate complex case requirements |
CHCDEV001 | Confirm Client developmental status |
CHCCSL002 | Apply specialist interpersonal and counselling interview skills |
Mode of Delivery
(Blended: online real time theory tutorials with on campus skills training in a simulation environment)
TThe course is provided through the supervised, structured, blended mode of delivery. It will be delivered and assessed over 1355 hours in 78 weeks, including training sessions for 1043 hours, assessments for 152 hours and 160 hours of professional experience placement (PEP).
20 contact hours will be delivered through online learning, which includes theory, simulation-based training, and assessment. Students can only progress to the PEP of the qualification once they have completed all assessment requirements of the theoretical component, including simulated procedures.
Besides the above-structured learning, students are advised that they will be required to do approximately 10 hours per week of self-paced learning.
The delivery mode is subject to your eligibility to access state funding requirements and other conditions. Please get in touch with our admissions consultants to learn more
Professional Experience Placement (PEP)
Professional Experience Placement (PEP)is essential to some of this course’s units. IHNA Guarantees Professional Experience Placement for all its student studying Diploma of Mental Health. Students will commence the 160 hours of placement (PEP) upon completing all theory assessments, including simulation-based assessments (SBA). During the practical placement, students will apply the required essential knowledge and skills to demonstrate competency for the units that require workplace demonstration.
Each student will work with a workplace supervisor at the Professional Experience Placement (PEP) facility.
An IHNA trainer and assessor will monitor the student’s progress during the PEP. All PEPs are arranged by IHNA. Students may arrange PEP by themselves if preferred, as agreed with and in consultation with, the course coordinator.
Note: Where a student breaches the PEP requirements as stated in the Entry Requirements, they could be excluded from their PEP. IHNA will not be responsible for any such exclusion.
Entry Requirements
There are no formal entry requirements for this course; however, applicants should demonstrate ability to perform tasks as required by the industry.
IHNA Admission Requirements
- 18 years of age and above at the time of commencement of the course
- Successful completion of an Australian Year 12 qualification or equivalent possess basic computer skills
*Mature age students (22+) may also be considered without the minimum education requirements. Each case will be reviewed individually to ascertain the capacity of the applicant to meet course requirements.
- Language, Literacy and Numeracy (LLN) requirement
All IHNA students must complete the Language, Literacy, Numeracy, and Digital (LLND) assessment to ensure that students meet the necessary requirements for successfully undertaking the course. IHNA administers the LLND test to evaluate each student’s suitability.
- Digital literacy
Basic computer skills covering the most common usages of a computer, including managing computer files, word processing, using spreadsheets and databases; creating presentations; finding information and communicating using computers; and being aware of social and ethical implications of Internet use.
Having own computer (desktop or laptop) to facilitate the training and assessment.
Professional Experience Placement (PEP) requirements
- A satisfactory National Police Clearance (NCC) or Australian Federal Police (AFP) Clearance certificate
- Immunisation records
- Working With Children check (WWCC)
- National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) clearance
- Students must declare a disability or disorder (if any), or if they are on any medication which may require reasonable adjustments
How is the Course Assessed?
Our approach is to collect evidence on whether the student can perform to the standards of the workplace. This is based on the relevant unit of competency, and you’ll find these tools being used:
- Theory Assessments (TA)
- Simulation Based Assessments (SBA)
- Professional Experience Placement (PEP)
RPL & credit transfer
Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
With RPL we assess your competency based on formal, non-formal, informal learning or direct work experience based on the required skills of the course.
Credit Transfer(CT)
We use CT where you’ve completed units of study at another TAFE College or Registered Training Organisation that meet the requirements of another course. We grant credit according to the Certification, Issuing, and Recognition of Qualifications and Statements of Attainment. Assessing a CT is free.
If you are eligible for RPL or CT, you may be able to finish the course faster and reduce the total course fees. Check your eligibility with us.
Ready to Apply?
- Application: Submit your online application by clicking “Enrol Now” on the top right corner of the course page.
- Interview: Once you’ve met IHNA’s eligibility criteria you will be contacted for an interview with an admissions consultant
- Offer Letter: If you’re successful with the interview you will be offered a place for the course as per the availability of each intake.
- Enrolment Fee: After signing the offer acceptance an invoice will be issued for the course. You may be eligible for government funding, so please call our team to know more.
- Confirmation of Admission: We will issue a conformation of admission once the enrolment fee has been received.
Call us on 1800 22 52 83 for any questions regarding your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long will it take to complete this course?
Duration of the course is 78 weeks
- Can I study at my own time ?
Yes, you can study at your own time however if you are a domestic student receiving government funding it is mandatory that you attend classes.
- Do I need to visit campus for any session ?
Domestic students are required to attend classes online.
- Can I do the practical assessment or Simulation based assessment (SBA) at campus?
SBAs (Simulation Based Assessments) can be done online.
- Is there any flexibility in attending SBA ?
Ideally it would be best to attend the SBA when it is scheduled by the trainer. Some of the SBAs require an audience which may be difficult to achieve if all the students do not show up for SBA at the scheduled time.
- Do you Offer professional experience placement (PEP)?
IHNA (Institute of Health and Nursing Australia) assists students in finding placement. However, we highly recommend students to volunteer at a community service organisation which might lead to gaining work placement or even a job.
- Can I do 1 day in Morning batch and remaining sessions on Evening batch?
Students should stick to morning or evening batch. It’s not recommended that students switch. If student cannot make it on the scheduled time because of extenuating circumstances, then they can attend the other session or listen to the recording.
- If I choose the morning 5-day class batch, in case I am unable to attend any 1-day class, can I study it on my own time?
Yes, you can catch up what you missed by listening to recordings and contacting the trainer on support days.
- Is the PEP flexible?
PEP is flexible in terms of which days you complete the placement. The total number of hours to be completed and the activities to be completed are not negotiable. You can do more than the required hours but not less than the stipulated 160 hours.
- Are the SBA and PEP mandatory?
Yes, SBA and PEP are mandatory.
- How many days I must attend class? Is there any flexibility in attending class?
Classes are schedule on Monday to Friday from 9am 1 pm AEST and 5 pm to 9pm AEST, Lecture and tutorial classes run from Monday to Thursday. Friday is support session. Student engagement is mandatory in all five days. It can be captured through attending classes, completing activities in canvas and completing assessments in student hub.
- Can I fast track this study?
You can fast track if you have RPL or credit transfer for some of the units. If you are a full fee-paying student, you can fast track it.
- Can I get RPL or credit transfer?
RPL and credit transfer is possible provided you have the proper evidence to prove you have the relevant knowledge and skills.
- Can I complete the course fully online without attending class?
The course has PEP which is face to face in a relevant workplace. Theory and simulation can be completed online.
- Is there any pre-recorded session?
Pre-recorded session for all units are available to students in canvas.
- Is it mandatory to attend full day class?
It’s not mandatory to attend full day of class but it is important to show evidence of participation by engaging in class, completing canvas activities and engaging with trainers.
- Is there any problem if I missed 01 – 02-hour class on a scheduled day?
Students will be able to catch up if they miss a one or two hours. However, its ideal not to miss the first couple of hours.
- What software proficiency I will learn in SBA?
You will be using 3 different platform to complete the course, Student hub, Canvas and MS office suite.
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Fees & Funding
Know about Fee Structure and Fundings in
- The Australian Government has approved IHNA’s offering of VET Student Loans for this course. This allows eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning so they can focus on their studies without financial stress.
- To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit our VET Student Loans page or contact us via email enquiry@ihna.edu.au or phone 1800 22 52 83 for assistance
$4,499
$4,999
- The Australian Government has approved IHNA’s offering of VET Student Loans for this course. This allows eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning so they can focus on their studies without financial stress.
- To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit our VET Student Loans page or contact us via email enquiry@ihna.edu.au or phone 1800 22 52 83 for assistance
$4,499
$4,999
- The Australian Government has approved IHNA’s offering of VET Student Loans for this course. This allows eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning so they can focus on their studies without financial stress.
- To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit our VET Student Loans page or contact us via email enquiry@ihna.edu.au or phone 1800 22 52 83 for assistance
$4,499
$4,999
- The Australian Government has approved IHNA’s offering of VET Student Loans for this course. This allows eligible students to defer their tuition fees until they are earning so they can focus on their studies without financial stress.
- To learn more about eligibility and the application process, visit our VET Student Loans page or contact us via email enquiry@ihna.edu.au or phone 1800 22 52 83 for assistance
$4,499
$4,999
Attention Students
We would like to inform you about a recent surge in cyber scams. Your security is of utmost importance to us, and we want to ensure that you stay safe from potential threats.
Scammers have been employing sophisticated tactics to deceive individuals and steal sensitive information. It’s essential to be vigilant and cautious when dealing with online communications and transactions.
For IHNA’s students, it’s good to know that IHNA’s bank account details are not shared through email. Instead, the information is accessible through the secure Student Hub under Student Invoice & Payment. This method ensures that only authorised users with secure login credentials can access and view the information.
Additionally, making payments through the IHNA website provides another secure option for transactions, ensuring that personal and financial details are handled in a safe and protected environment.
For any questions or concerns related to payments or account details, students should reach out to IHNA directly through official contact channels (accounts@ihna.edu.au) to ensure the highest level of security and privacy.
Testimonials
Stories of Satisfied Students
I wanted to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude for your invaluable support and guidance throughout the Diploma of Mental Health. Our educator, Sara’s, dedication to helping me succeed has truly made a difference, and I am incredibly grateful for all that you have done.Sara’s professionalism, expertise, and genuine care for the students have been evident from the very beginning. Her ability to explain complex concepts in a clear and understandable manner has been instrumental in my learning journey. Thank you once again for everything.
Anjali Modi
Diploma of Mental Health
I, Letemariam Adhanom Joined IHNA in 2022 to study Diploma of Mental health. I was very hesitant to study with IHNA due to the stories I heard, however, I have come to know it is a very good college. It has a flexible timetable, knowledgeable and trainers that would do anything to assist their students. I am very grateful to all the teachers that helped me during the period of my study. Overall, I am satisfied with IHNA focus on Mental Health, it has met my expectations about the course.
Letemariam Adhanom
Diploma of Mental Health
Since I join IHNA campus last year in October 2022, in my first week of enrolment everything when good with the administration team but when it came to joining my classes, I had no access to class for nearly 3weeks without fully receiving the right help from the campus staffs on time and when I did a transfer from Perth campus to Melbourne campus this year, I lost about a month, not having access KH or my assessments, which made everything harder for me and that shown me the lack of unprofessionalism in the campus especially from those who are assign to help students. But during the times I spend in my semester 1 to semester 3, everything has been great. My teachers Tracey Carli and Marinela Clark have been the best, helping me understanding all my units and assessments. I would recommend IHNA to my friends and family but because of the unprofessionalism from the campus staffs, I would not recommend it at all because the moments when I needed help, it was hard to reach the campus staffs on the phone or either they tell me, they will get back to me but never do. Over all, I had the best and unprofessional experience studying at IHNA.
Diyo Gai
Diploma of Mental Health
I am satisfied with my course overall. Few errors in the questionnaire and some assessments found bit difficult to access. It support wasn’t that great but teachers were good and productive in terms of their expert advise.
Erin Mathulla George
Diploma of Mental Health
t’s amazing experience to study with IHNA. My experience with online learning was so good. And not the last I want to add it was my good luck that we had a great teacher named Sara Reddy who taught me mental health. I have no words how to describe Sara, as she is much more than my words can say in this testimonial. She is not only a good teacher and mentor, but she is also a great person, a great human being who is not only teaching the right subject (Mental Health) which she is passionate about it but also making a difference in the lives of people who are around her. Thanks Sara you are an amazing personality, I am so proud that I am your student and IHNA Institute give me an opportunity to know you as a person. I have no words how to thank you. You are and you will be always an important person in my life.
Stuti Vyas
Diploma of Mental Health
I was the first student who registered a Diploma in Mental Health at IHNA, and it was my good luck that we had a great teacher named Sara Reddy who taught me mental health not only through books, but she also shows me what is mental health support. I have no words how to describe Sara, as she is much more than my words can say in this testimonial.She is not only a good teacher and mentor, but she is also a great person, a great human being who is not only teaching the right subject (Mental Health) which she is passionate about it but also making a difference in the lives of people who are around her.Thanks Sara you are an amazing personality, I am so proud that I am your student and IHNA Institute give me an opportunity to know you as a person.I have no words how to thank you. You are and you will be always an important person in my life. God bless you, Sara.
Syed Shahid Ali Burney
Diploma of Mental Health
Awards Received by IHNA