Associate Degree of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs

Build a broad skill set to work across mental health, alcohol and high risk drug use and dependence support services

Award granted

Associate Degree

Course code

CRS1401640

Delivery location

Berwick

International

Not available for International students

Length

Full Time, 2 years. Part Time, 4 years.

Start dates

3 March, 28 July

• Read more about this course

  This Associate Degree course is ideal for anyone looking to extend their Certificate IV or Diploma qualifications, gain recognition for long-term experience in the sector or career change into the mental health, AOD or broader community services sectors.
  
  Students who successfully complete the dual Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs/Diploma of Mental Health are guaranteed a place into the second year of the Associate Degree program. Other related diplomas can result in credit transfer for relevant first year subjects. More information about credit transfers is available as part of the application process.
  
  Students who have successfully completed the Undergraduate Certificate in Community Mental Health Alcohol and Other Drugs, will receive credit for the first semester of the Associate Degree.
  
  Experienced teachers who are experts in the sector will guide you through the degree, which includes theoretical study and practical projects.
  
  Transition support for new students entering Chisholm's higher education courses is built into the course delivery. Students participate in an orientation program the week prior to the start of their first semester and students are able to access academic support through Chisholm’s Tertiary Access Program and Studiosity.
  
  This course is available for enrolment for domestic students.
  
  International students enrolled in the Bachelor degree, may exit the degree at the Associate Degree point.
  
  VET Pathways
  - Based on interview, student may pathway Certificate IV qualifications, and may be offered a place in the Undergraduate Certificate, Associate Degree, or Bachelor degree or be encouraged to complete Diploma studies before reapplying. Advanced Standing Credit from relevant Certificate IV studies may be available for relevant completed Certificate IV qualifications.
  Pathway Certificate IV courses include:
  • Certificate IV in Mental Health CHC43315
  • Certificate IV in Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC43215
  • Certificate IV in Community Services CHC42015
  • Certificate IV in Youth Work
  • Certificate IV in Disability CHC43115
  
  - Students with the any of the following Diploma’s will enter Year One of the Course and may be eligible for credit transfers from completed Chisholm Diploma studies based on their area of study.
  Students with a Diploma from another institution please discuss your previous qualifications with the course coordinator.
  • Diploma of Alcohol and Other Drugs CHC53215
  • Diploma of Community Services CHC52015
  • Diploma of Counselling CHC51015
  • Diploma of Mental Health CHC53315
  • Diploma of Youth Work CHC50421
  
  Students who successfully complete the Associate Degree can directly pathway to the Bachelor
  
  Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people - support is available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island people through Chisholm's Koorie Services. Email them at klo@chisholm.edu.au

  
  Course structure

  To complete the Associate Degree of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs, students must attain a total of 192 credit points. Most subjects are equal to twelve credit point. Most full-time students choose to study four units per semester, and usually undertake two semesters each year.

  
  Indicative workload

  Weekly workload per semester for 4 subjects: 12 hours face-to-face plus 24 hours personal study time
  Full-time students attend classes on two days a week at Chisholm Berwick from 10:00am - 4.30pm.
  
  • Monday and Tuesday
  
  Part-time studies are available. Part time students attend classes one full two or half days a week.
  
  Semester One is from March to June and Semester Two is July to November. There is a 200 hour Fieldwork placement. This is usually completed in July to November in year two of the course.

• Learning outcomes

  Demonstrate knowledge of a range of mental health and recovery models, practices and techniques and have the capacity to apply them in the field.

  Critically evaluate and analyse practices applied in a community services environment, with reference to their theoretical understanding

  Apply a critical, inquiring and reflective approach to professional practice while working with, and for, the most vulnerable and marginalised individuals, families and groups in the community.

  Demonstrate case management skills and an understanding of the community mental health and alcohol and other drugs service model.

  Apply interpersonal skills to facilitate compassionate responsiveness to the needs of others and themselves.

  Coordinate multiple service provision and a tailored approach to people with complex needs.

• Subjects - Year one

  AOD IssuesHEBCHT104

  Semester one
  

  This subject is intended to provide students with knowledge of contemporary issues regarding drug use and treatment in Australia with a focus on the AOD sector. Students will become familiar with theories of addiction as well as theories of various treatment strategies.
  
  On successful completion of this subject, students will be able to:
  a. Discuss how values and attitudes influence both our own and our community’s responses to AOD issues.
  b. Discuss historical, social, cultural and political constructions of drug use and how this affects policy
  c. Discuss theories of drug use in Australia, its associated problems and the socio-economic impact for individuals, their families/carers, and the community
  d. Describe various psychoactive drugs and their effects on individual physiology and behaviour
  e. Compare and contrast a range of interventions for intoxication and withdrawal
  f. Discuss strategies for strengthening early intervention and prevention approaches to harmful AOD use from an individual and community perspective

  Lifespan DevelopmentHEBCHT101

  Semester one
  

  This subject explores the biological, social and psychological facets that shape and individual's growth and wellbeing over the lifespan.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
  a. Define the concept of development and explain the characteristics that describe development at each stage of the lifespan from neonate to death.
  b. Describe patterns that exist in development and implications for well-being.
  c. Describe the significant physical changes and factors influencing health and well-being across the lifespan.
  d. Identify and describe the major changes in psycho-social, cognitive and emotional development across the lifespan.
  e. Identify and describe the major developmental tasks necessary for healthy development and the role and function of healthy family life.
  f. Explain the concepts of nature and nurture applicable to early development.
  g. Compare and contrast three theories that describe developmental changes during the human lifespan

  Contexts of the Mental Health Industry AHEBCHCS101

  Semester one
  

  This subject is a foundation unit designed to assist students to understand the key influences on the development of the mental health service system. This subject is an integral part of the Degree to ensure students have insight into the systemic influences to the sector.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
  a. Discuss the history of mental health care and relate this to associated social change.
  b. Identify the philosophical, social and political influences that affected change in the delivery of mental health care in the latter 1900’s, and discuss the role and impact of international policy/conventions.
  c. Summarise the impact of deinstitutionalization, mainstreaming and community based care in relation to contemporary mental health and AOD services.
  d. Describe the current mental health reforms in Australia with particular reference to the current national mental health action plan or equivalent.
  e. Identify settings for mental health and AOD support and treatment for individuals across the lifespan.
  f. Compare access issues to appropriate mental health and AOD services for metropolitan, rural and remote communities and different cultural/ethnic groups.
  g. Explain how human rights have impacted on current models of mental health and AOD treatment, care and support.

  Policy, Politics and Law AHEBCHCS102

  Semester one
  

  This subject examines the Australian government structure and policy cycle in relation to inter-related laws and policies impacting on the delivery of mental health and AOD treatment, care and support.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
  a. Describe the basic characteristics of government and the political structures that mandate and authorise change in the mental health and AOD sector
  b. Explain the implications of a ‘whole of government’ approach to policy development within the context of reform of mental health treatment, care and support
  c. Discuss key policies and legislation applicable to the mental health and AOD treatment sectors
  d. Explain the impact of current privacy legislation on the role of community support workers
  e. Describe the process and factors considered in recent mental health and AOD sector reforms
  f. Review and critique the policy and legislative framework for early intervention and prevention.
  g. Explain the process by which public policy is reviewed and reformed

  Community DevelopmentHEBCHSI101

  Semester two
  

  This subject introduces students to approaches of community development and its application in metropolitan, rural and remote areas of Australia.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Compare and contrast approaches to community development, outlining their strengths and weaknesses, including both crisis and non-crisis.
  b. Identify community based resources that promote self-care, recovery and general wellbeing across the life span.
  c. Describe the role of social justice and the principles of empowerment necessary for community development.
  d. Discuss the range of skills necessary in researching and analysing community agendas and relevant communication and consultation strategies to strengthen relationships and build partnerships.
  e. Describe the role of non-government services in the provision of support for psychosocial recovery.
  f. Develop creative skills and ideas for implementing innovative practices into community development.

  Industry ProjectHEBCHPD102

  Semester two
  

  Students are introduced to and practice a number of key skills that are expected of a Higher Education student entering practicum and the Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs industry: experiential learning, reflective practice, resilience and wellbeing.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will:
  a. Demonstrate an understanding of self-reflection and self-reflective practices
  b. Demonstrate an understanding of the importance of attention and concentration and resilience
  c. Be able to design and plan a project establishing appropriate goals, objectives, milestones and action plans
  d. Be able to prepare an e-portfolio (CV, Cover Letter, and an Expression of Interests
  e. Demonstrate the key skills and preparedness for a job application/interview

  Mental Health Practice AHEBCHT102

  Semester two
  

  Australian epidemiology of low prevalence and major mental disorders and co-morbidity is discussed in this subject regarding prioritisation of health intervention/prevention approaches across the health and welfare sector.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
  a. Describe the theories of low prevalence disorders, major mental illness and co-morbidity, the impact on psychosocial and physical wellbeing and subsequent behaviours across the lifespan.
  b. Describe at least three conceptual models, including the vulnerability-stress model, used in understanding mental health.
  c. Explain the pathways and continuum of care for timely and effective intervention for individuals experiencing a mental health and/or AOD crisis.
  d. Explain why collaborative capability is necessary in supporting individuals and their families/carers in seeking the right treatment at the right time by the right person.
  e. Describe the role and function of a multidisciplinary team in relation to providing holistic care.
  f. Describe the key elements of care coordination across a range of services for individuals from different cultural/ethnic groups with complex needs.

  Working with DiversityHEBCHPD101

  Semester two
  

  This subject examines population diversity in its many forms and explore the concept of 'cultural safety' and a holistic person-centred approach as is essential for working with individuals in a community based setting.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Discuss and critically evaluate various theories of how identity, diversity and difference are constructed and how notions of race, ethnicity, culture and gender have developed and been sustained through language and social structures
  b. Articulate a coherent argument that is based on sound reasoning that takes into account a number of different perspectives, interpretations or theories and is supported by authoritative, current and appropriate evidence
  c. Explain how cultural assumptions might influence individual and group understanding of mental health and wellbeing and suggest strategies for ensuring effective intercultural communication
  d. Discuss how attitudes to diversity at individual, social and institutional levels can provide opportunities for both social inclusion and social exclusion for specific groups
  
  e. Describe and critically evaluate strategies to promote mental health in people from diverse cultural backgrounds, including the cultural safety and cultural competence frameworks currently proposed for working effectively with individuals or groups experiencing mental health and AOD issues in Australia

• Subjects - Year two

  AOD Support InterventionsHEBCHSI104

  Semester one
  

  This subject introduces the skills necessary for early screening, assessment and community support for individuals, families and carers affected by AOD misuse.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Evaluate the role of evidence-based practice in recovery planning for people with AOD problems
  b. Describe the application of specific assessment tools and criteria for use with people with AOD problems.
  c. Demonstrate AOD assessment skills including evaluating a client’s readiness to change, using models such as Prochaska & DiClemente’s Model of Change.
  d. Demonstrate knowledge of actual &/or potential risk factors for people with AOD challenges and describe how those risks might be managed.
  e. Outline the principles of relapse prevention and formulate relapse and recovery strategies.
  f. Identify and critically evaluate AOD information services available for all age groups, families and carers.
  g. Develop a community support plan for a client who misuses/uses alcohol or other drugs

  Mental Health Practice BHEBCHT103

  Semester one
  

  The use of formal classification and diagnostic systems in mental health has generated cultural, professional, and social criticism. This subject critically analyses the strengths and weaknesses of a classification/diagnostic based assessment and a strengths and recovery oriented assessment. The stages of crisis and risk management are evaluated as applicable to community based care.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students will be able to:
  a. Describe the stages of crisis and the formulation of early intervention and preventative strategies within a complex multidisciplinary setting.
  b. Describe the complex social, health, and legal issues that often arise in connection to serious mental illness and co morbidity and critically evaluate associated risks.
  c. Identify signs of increased risk of serious physical and mental illness associated with comorbidity and evaluate support and care options.
  d. Develop a support plan that facilitates functional recovery reflecting a person’s cultural safety needs and outline the strengths and weaknesses of utilizing a diagnostic framework.
  e. Explain the importance of engagement and participation of family/carer in a support/recovery plan for an individual and reflect upon the impact of family disengagement.

  Structural Counselling ProcessesHEBCHSI103

  Semester one
  

  This subject critically evaluates current theories of structural counselling processes, including group work, brief and single session therapy.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Explain and critically appraise engagement, respect and regard as necessary for an effective counselling relationship
  b. Critically examine the key concepts of basic counselling and support techniques that promote competence, resilience and coping strategies
  c. Compare and contrast a range of structural counselling processes indicating applicability in different contexts and across the life span
  d. Critically analyse how the counselling process can be utilised to reduce risk factors and enhance protective and preventive strategies
  e. Describe the principles of confidentiality and professional boundaries in respect to the counselling relationship content

  Policy, Politics and Law BHEBCHCS104

  Semester one
  

  This subject examines and critically analyse key legislation that informs mental health and AOD practice.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Discuss the tension between the controlling and caring functions of involuntary treatment and the concept of advanced directives.
  b. Discuss the relevant aspects of the Mental Health Act in relation to community-based care and reflect upon the impact for the role of community support workers.
  c. Critically review key national/local policy publications and identify reform directions for consumer and carer participation at all levels of service delivery.
  d. Critically identify reform directions that focus on specific populations.
  e. Identify community based services that support programs for people with a mental illness and/or AOD issues and the relevant policy/legislation framework.
  f. Identify policy/legislation that addresses the needs for service for people with AOD and/or complex needs.

  Comorbidity and Complex CareHEBCHSI106

  Semester two
  

  This subject critically examines the health and welfare implications of comorbidity on the course of illness and explore community support interventions and services for individuals, carers and families.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Discuss the incidence and causal models of comorbidity and types of presentation
  b. Describe and explain the health and welfare implications of mental illness and a co-occurring disorder, outlining the key elements of a community support plan
  c. Critically analyse health, welfare, personal and social risk factors of comorbidity across the lifespan
  d. Critically analyse the range of services for the individual, carers and families with complex needs
  e. Discuss and explain early intervention/prevention pathways for people with a range of comorbid presentations and complex care needs
  f. Describe the methods for developing a coordinated and collaborative community based support plan for a person with multiple and complex needs.

  Contexts of the Mental Health Industry BHEBCHCS103

  Semester two
  

  Environmental and social factors impact on the community’s understanding of mental health and mental illness. Public perception can be influenced by media sensationalism and stigma. The subject examines the impact of stigma and media influence on a community and its capacity to accept and understand individual difference, diversity and vulnerability.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Recognize how social attitudes can lead to stigmatization in the community of those with a mental health challenge or illness and affect their current employment situation or their potential to find work.
  
  b. Compare and contrast various approaches to mental illness and evaluate their strengths and weaknesses.
  
  c. Outline current policy directions regarding mental health and how various organizations address the issue of stigma and public perceptions of mental health and mental illness.
  
  d. Discuss how the attitudes, values, beliefs and knowledge of mental health workers can have a positive or negative impact on the people they work with.

  Exploring ResearchHEBCHPD103

  Semester two
  

  This subject explores the fundamentals of research, both in terms of conducting it and understanding it. An assortment of research techniques are canvassed, with an underlying philosophy that a good researcher is one able to determine and apply the most appropriate combination of techniques to the problem at hand rather than being limited to a small number of preferred methods.
  
  On successful completion of this subject students are expected to be able to:
  a. Compare and contrast a wide range of research techniques in order to determine the most appropriate combination for a particular task.
  b. Take account of principles such as ethics, power and privilege when designing and reviewing research
  c. Critically evaluate research and research literature for its validity, reliability and other limitations
  d. Understand and correct for a range of common errors in thinking and decision making
  e. Apply research skills and critical thinking to the mental health field in particular

  Practicum Year 2HEBCHPD104

  Semester two
  

  Inclusion of the Practicum in the program of study is designed to offer students the opportunity for professional development as dual diagnosis practitioners, youth support workers, social welfare workers, residential carers, family support workers, welfare coordinators, refugee liaison officers, psychosocial rehabilitation workers, alcohol and other drugs workers, mental health workers and youth justice workers.
  
  Key skills Year 2
  On successful completion of the Year 2 Practicum, you are expected to be able to:
  • Under supervision, participate in the provision of community support with particular attention to clients with multiple or complex needs and their families and carers, applying theory learnt in co-requisite subjects and demonstrating a professional approach to work
  • Demonstrate developed self-awareness, self-care and reflective practice within a professional framework
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the relational aspects of caring
  • Demonstrate capacity for assertive community-based support under supervision.
  • Reflect on the implications for their own practice and development of professional identity in the sector

• Admission requirements

  Please refer to the course entry requirements document (available above in the course description) for current requirements.

• Course pathways

  Nationally recognised training	Certificate IV In Alcohol And Other Drugs	Certificate IV In Mental Health	Certificate IV In Disability Support	Certificate IV In Youth Work	Diploma Of Counselling	Diploma of Justice	Diploma Of Mental Health	Diploma of Youth Work	Undergraduate Certificate In Community Mental Health, Alcohol And Other Drugs	Associate Degree of Community Mental Health, Alcohol and Other Drugs
  Possible job outcome	community rehabilitation and support worker support worker (community services) mental health outreach worker drug and alcohol community support worker	outreach officer mental health outreach worker community rehabilitation and support worker	support worker residential care worker disability support officer integration aid	youth worker	counsellor	legal officer courts and tribunals - court registrar local laws officer community corrections officer (case manager)	community rehabilitation and support worker mental health support worker welfare support worker	youth worker	drug and alcohol community support worker community rehabilitation and support worker mental health worker	mental health worker alcohol and drug counsellor community and health care worker refugee liaison officer Housing Support Worker

• Fees

  Indicative total course cost $30,576. Total course cost is indicative based upon the 2025 tuition fee. Any increase in fees for subsequent years is not included in this value. Indicative annual tuition fees of $15,288. Indicative fees are based upon a student enrolling in 100% full time study load and does not reflect if subjects are repeated or advanced standing is granted.

• Advanced standing

  Your current skills, knowledge and experience can help you get a qualification.

  Find out about skills recognition and RPL for certificate to advanced diploma courses.

  Find out about advanced standing for graduate certificate, graduate diploma and bachelor degree courses.

This course is accredited by the Tertiary Education Quality and Standards Agency (TEQSA) and aligned to Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) Level 6.