Te Taketake Diploma in Applied Addictions Counselling (Level 7)
Allied Health
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A Level 7 diploma for those working in addiction and mental health, providing knowledge and skills for assessment and treatment of addiction issues. Includes 400 hours of clinical placement and is recognised by the Drug and Alcohol Practitioners’ Association Aotearoa–New Zealand (DAPAANZ).
Blended study
This is a mix of online learning & face-to-face sessions
Available in 2 locations
It will take a total of 2 years
This course requires 10 hours per week
Core skills this course teaches
Apply specialised technical knowledge
Provide treatment to people seeking assistance for addictions (gambling, alcohol, drug use) using specialised knowledge and skills.
Conduct assessments and treatment services
Work independently to assess and treat clients within the mental health and addictions sector.
Reflective and self-aware practice
Demonstrate a high degree of self-awareness and reflective practice, promoting both professional growth and the wellbeing of clients (whaiora).
What You're Signing Up For
Te Taketake Diploma in Applied Addictions Counselling (Level 7), offered by Moana House Training Institute, is designed for people already working in the mental health and addictions sector. This programme equips you with specialised technical knowledge and skills to provide treatment for people affected by gambling, alcohol, and drug use, while also encouraging personal development and self-reflection. Recognised by DAPAANZ, it enables graduates to work independently in the sector providing assessment and treatment. The programme combines theory, practical clinical work (400 hours over two years), and cultural competency, with blended delivery in Dunedin or Rotorua.
Course Content
- Foundation Counselling and Assessment Skills
- Pharmacology
- Change and Motivation
- Culture and Whānau
- Diagnostic Systems
- Case Management, Care and Prevention
- Applying Theory to Practice 1
- Applying Theory to Practice 2
- Clinical Placement (400 hours over two years)
- Wānanga/workshops (8 per year, 3-4 days each)
- Self-directed study
What you need to know first
No formal academic requirements, but Level 5 or above recommended
Must be working (or able to work) in the mental health and addictions sector
Access to work with tangata whaiora (clients) affected by addiction
400 hours of supervised clinical practice required during the programme
Basic computer skills and access to a computer and internet
At least two years in recovery from any substance or process addictions or offending
Permission for Police Check
Ability to pay course fees or obtain a scholarship
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health and Wellbeing
Mental Health
Addiction Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Addictions Practitioner
Mental Health Counsellor
AOD Counsellor
Support roles in mental health and addiction
Otago Polytechnic is known for high quality, hands on learning that leads to strong outcomes. With excellent student satisfaction, high graduate employment rates, and a commitment to sustainability, it’s a place where practical skills meet purpose. Their award winning programmes span design, fashion, creative arts, trades, health, and business, giving you real experience and real confidence for whatever comes next.