Study Options
Empowering Practitioners, Transforming Lives
Your Pathway to Professional Recognition Begins Here
Whether you’re beginning your studies or exploring your next step in the mental health field, the Vocational Mental Health Practitioners Association of Australia (VMHPAA) is here to support you on the journey.
As the only peak body dedicated to vocationally trained mental health practitioners, we proudly recognise a range of qualifications aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) Levels 4 to 6.
These qualifications are delivered through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) across Australia and provide the foundation for meaningful, community-connected careers in mental health, counselling, peer support, and community services.
Choosing an Education Provider VMHPAA does not endorse specific training providers, but we recommend that students choose Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) that are accredited to deliver the above qualifications. You can search for approved RTOs via the National Register of VET: training.gov.au
Course Accreditation for Providers VMHPAA offers a Course Accreditation service for education providers seeking to align their vocational programs with industry best practices. This recognition ensures that training meets the highest standards of relevance and quality for today’s mental health landscape.If you're an education provider interested in VMHPAA course accreditation, click here for more information.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Professional growth doesn’t end with graduation. At VMHPAA, we place strong emphasis on lifelong learning. We provide access to a wide range of CPD opportunities, including online learning, interactive workshops, and live training events - helping practitioners stay current and confident at every career stage.T
he future of mental health care in Australia is practical, community-focused, and vocationally driven.
Your future begins here - with the right course, the right support, and the right professional home.
Not Sure If You Qualify? Let’s Chat.
We understand the diversity of pathways into vocational mental health practice - and we’re here to recognise and support that. If you think your training or experience aligns with our mission, but you’re not listed above, please contact us. We’ll conduct a free eligibility assessment to help determine the right membership pathway for you.
Contact Us Now to learn more about becoming a valued member of VMHPAA.
VMHPAA Recognised Vocational Courses
Below is a selection of vocational qualifications recognised by VMHPAA for membership:
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Certificate IV in Mental Health (CHC43315)
Develops the skills to support individuals experiencing mental health issues using recovery-oriented approaches. The Certificate IV in Mental Health equip you to support people experiencing mental health challenges. These qualifications prepare you for roles such as Mental Health Support Worker, Case Worker, Community Rehabilitation Worker, or Outreach Worker. You’ll learn to provide recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care, promote well-being, and work collaboratively with clients, families, and mental health professionals in diverse settings.
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Diploma of Mental Health (CHC53315)Equips practitioners with advanced knowledge for supporting clients with complex mental health needs. The Diploma in Mental Health equip you to support people experiencing mental health challenges. These qualifications prepare you for roles such as Mental Health Support Worker, Case Worker, Community Rehabilitation Worker, or Outreach Worker. You’ll learn to provide recovery-oriented, trauma-informed care, promote well-being, and work collaboratively with clients, families, and mental health professionals in diverse settings.
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Diploma of Counselling (CHC51015)
Prepares you to work professionally with clients across various counselling contexts. The Diploma of Counselling provides the knowledge and practical skills to support individuals facing personal, emotional, or psychological challenges. This qualification prepares you for roles such as Counsellor, Case Worker, Support Worker, or Intake Officer. You’ll learn to apply evidence-based counselling modalities, build therapeutic relationships, and support clients through issues like grief, trauma, relationship difficulties, and mental health concerns.
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Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs (CHC43215)Focuses on supporting individuals with substance use challenges through therapeutic and harm-reduction strategies. The CHC43215 Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs equips you to support individuals affected by addiction. This nationally recognised course builds skills to make a real impact in people’s lives. With this qualification, you can pursue employment as a Case Worker, Community Support Worker, Drug and Alcohol Worker, or Family Support Worker in growing community services sectors.
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Certificate IV in Community Services (CHC42021)
Trains professionals to provide person-centred support, advocacy, and early intervention in community settings. The Certificate IV in Community Services provide practical skills to support individuals, families, and communities in need. These qualifications prepare you for roles such as Case Manager, Community Support Worker, Child Protection Officer, Youth Worker, or Domestic Violence Support Worker. You’ll learn to deliver person-centred services, advocate for clients, and coordinate support across diverse social service settings.
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Diploma of Community Services (CHC52021)
Builds leadership and coordination skills to deliver holistic community services at a higher level. The Diploma in Community Services provide practical skills to support individuals, families, and communities in need. These qualifications prepare you for roles such as Case Manager, Community Support Worker, Child Protection Officer, Youth Worker, or Domestic Violence Support Worker. You’ll learn to deliver person-centred services, advocate for clients, and coordinate support across diverse social service settings.
Join the VMHPAA
Pathway to Membership
To become a VMHPAA member, applicants must:
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Hold a recognised AQF Level 4 to 6 vocational qualification in mental health or a related field
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Have a minimum of one year of professional practice as a vocational mental health practitioner
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Commit to ongoing continuing professional development (CPD) and adhere to our professional standards