Te Taketake Diploma in Applied Addictions Counselling (Level 7)
Social Services
A course by
Otago Polytechnic
A part-time Level 7 diploma designed for mental health and addictions practitioners, providing advanced skills in addictions counselling, assessment, and clinical practice, with a strong focus on personal and professional growth. The qualification enables graduates to work independently and seek DAPAANZ registration.
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
Specialised addictions counselling skills
Gain the technical knowledge and skills to independently provide assessment and treatment for people with gambling, alcohol or drug use problems.
Clinical experience
Complete 400 hours of supervised clinical practice, preparing you for real-world work in the addictions sector.
Integration of theory and practice
Apply theoretical concepts in practical settings through wānanga-based learning and supervised casework.
What You're Signing Up For
Te Taketake Diploma in Applied Addictions Counselling (Level 7) equips you with specialised skills for supporting people with addictions to gambling, alcohol and drug use. Delivered by the Moana House Training Institute, this NZQA Level 7 programme combines theory, practical wānanga-based learning, and 400 hours of clinical placement over two years. Graduates are ready to take up professional roles in the mental health and addictions field, and can seek DAPAANZ registration. The programme fosters personal development as well as professional knowledge, and emphasises working with tangata whaiora in culturally-grounded ways.
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 (Te Hauhakenga)
- 400 hours clinical placement over two years
- Regular wānanga/workshops in Dunedin or Rotorua
What you need to know first
Expected to have NZQA Level 5 or above
Currently working in the mental health and addictions sector, or access to work involving tangata whaiora (clients affected by addiction)
Ability to arrange supervised clinical placement
Basic computer skills and reliable internet access
At least two years in recovery from addictions or offending
Permission for Police Check
Ability to pay course fees or secure a scholarship
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Mental Health and Addictions
Community and Social Services
Future employment opportunities might be
Addictions Counsellor
Alcohol and Drug Counsellor
Mental Health Support Worker
Community Worker in Addictions Sector
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.