Mental health support worker job description

Mental health support workers help people living with mental illnesses. They also communicate with other mental health services and create care plans that meet the client’s goals — both short-term and in the long run. Mental health support workers also help their clients reach their personal goals and oversee their progress, as well as provide counselling services.

Tasks and responsibilities for a mental health support worker

A mental health worker’s job description focuses on supporting people that experience mental health issues, working with them to set and achieve goals to improve their lives.

Some mental health support worker roles and responsibilities are:

Assessing the client needs
Referring clients to necessary related mental health services
Communicating with other service providers and support programs
Counselling for individuals or groups
Researching and developing new services and programs
Maintaining client records and assessing progress

How to become a mental health support worker

A career in mental health support requires a specific set of skills and experience in the workplace. There are a couple of ways you can start your journey.

Study

Equip yourself with essential mental health support skills by completing a relevant qualification through a TAFE or Registered Training Organisation, such as the Certificate IV in Mental Health.
Start a Traineeship

A traineeship or apprenticeship is a great way to get your foot in the door, get on the ground experience, and complete studies along the way. Generally, traineeships take 24 months to complete.

Pathway options

A job in mental health support is gratifying, and this might be a role where you are happy to stay. But, if you want to progress in your career path, starting a job as a support worker can lead you into more senior roles.

Some mental health career pathways could be:

Junior

Support worker

Most common qualification: Certificate III in Community Services (CHC32015)
Volunteer coordinator

Most common qualification: Diploma of Community Services (CHC52015)

Mid

Coordinator – mental health

Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work (CHC43315)
Mental health nurse

Most common qualification: Advanced Diploma of Nursing (Mental Health) (HLT64115)
Outreach worker

Most common qualification: Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315)

Senior

Community development manager

Most common qualification: Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management (CHC62015)
Care manager

Most common qualification: Advanced Diploma of Community Sector Management (CHC62015)

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Study method In-class Online

The Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315) provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to work in the community as a mental health professional. This course has theoretical and practical learning, with a work-placement element of at least 80 hours in the field.

The average course duration is one year and can be studied part of full time. The course can be delivered in various formats depending on the provider, including online and in-class lessons.

You may be eligible for an Australian government subsidy fee. Check with course providers for more information.

Diploma of Counselling

Study method Online

A diploma in counselling (CHC51015) is a qualification for working with clients on personal and psychological issues using established counselling methods.

This course prepares the counsellor to work in defined and supported counselling roles in established agencies rather than independent practice.

The average course duration is one year, but you can be self-paced with your study. Learning is through blended study options, combining online study, in-class lessons, and practical work experience.

Australian Institute of Professional Counsellors (AIPC)

Related subjects

Roles that support people and help them achieve their goals aren’t limited to mental health. There is a strong need for community service workers who are team players and have a natural ability to connect with people.

Some other subjects to explore: