Supporting a Person’s Mental Health and Addiction Wellbeing (Level 4)
Social Services
A course by
Careerforce
A level 4 short programme for support workers aiming to improve their competencies in supporting people experiencing mental health distress or addiction, focusing on history, sector knowledge, culturally appropriate practice, and ongoing support models.
Online study
Flexible online learning from anywhere
It will take a total of 30 weeks


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Understand the history of mental health and addiction sectors
Learners will gain an understanding of how historical developments have shaped current service provision and attitudes in the mental health and addiction sectors.

Demonstrate culturally appropriate support in mental health/addiction settings
Learners will be able to carry out tasks and responsibilities as a support worker in a culturally sensitive and appropriate manner, contributing positively within a team environment.

Apply treatment approaches and models of support
Learners will be able to identify different approaches and models of ongoing treatment, select, and apply appropriate support methods in real-world scenarios.
What You're Signing Up For
This Careerforce short programme supports those working in health, social or community roles who are likely to engage with people experiencing mental distress or addiction. It builds on previous health and wellbeing learning to deepen understanding of the mental health and addiction sectors, historical context, culturally appropriate support, and different support models. The course is not a qualification but a coherent programme with NZQA-recognised unit standards. It is ideal for support workers seeking to gain supplementary skills for broader sector work.
Course Content
- History of the mental health and addictions sectors and their current influence
- Roles and responsibilities of a mental health and/or addiction support worker
- Culturally appropriate practice and contributing to a support team
- Different approaches and models of ongoing treatment
- Applying appropriate treatment approaches and ongoing support
What you need to know first
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community) (Level 4) with strands in Community Facilitation, Community Health Work, Mental Health and Addiction, or Social Services (Careerforce or other approved provider)

What sort of industry will this job lead to
Health & Wellbeing
Mental Health Support
Addiction Support
Community Services

Future employment opportunities might be
Mental health support worker
Addiction support worker
Community support worker
Social services roles


Coming Soon: Nexties Explorer
Our AI-powered Explorer is almost ready. Soon, you’ll be able to build a dynamic profile of your skills, goals, and strengths, and get a curated selection of courses just for you.
More details