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. Evaluate how values and attitudes influence both our own and the community’s responses to AOD issues.
  b. Articulate historical, social, cultural, and political constructions of drug use and how they influence policy.
  c. Investigate theories of drug use and addiction, risk and protective factors, and socio-economic impacts for individuals, their families/carers, and the community.
  d. Assess psychoactive substances, methods of classification and their effect on individual physiology and behaviour.
  e. Critically evaluate concepts of addiction such as intoxication, withdrawal, dependency, tolerance, neuroadaptation, and the addiction cycle.
  f. Formulate 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. Critically evaluate the theories of human development across the lifespan
  b. Synthesise theories of physical, psychosocial, cognitive and emotional development relevant to mental health and AOD practice
  c. Assess risk and protective factors of clients across the lifespan with a focus on mental health, and alcohol and other drug issues.

  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. Critically analyse the history of mental health care and its impact on perceptions of mental health.
  b. Critically evaluate the impact of deinstitutionalization, mainstreaming and community-based care in relation to contemporary mental health and AOD services.
  c. Critically evaluate dual diagnosis assessment and service provision.
  d. Assess factors that influence access to appropriate mental health and AOD services across diverse communities.
  e. Critically evaluate how human rights have impacted 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. Contextualise mental health and AOD policies, regulations and laws within the Australian political and health systems
  b. Assess the implications of a ‘whole of government’ approach to policy development within the context of reform of mental health treatment, care and support
  c. Analyse and evaluate key policies, legislation and review cycles applicable to the mental health and AOD sectors
  d. Articulate the impact of privacy legislation on the role of community support workers
  e. Critically review the policy and legislative framework for early intervention and prevention

  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. Critically analyse various community development models and approaches, specifically considering their application in the context of mental health, alcohol, and other drugs.
  b. Evaluate local community resources and networks that support recovery, self-care, and mental wellbeing across different demographics and life stages.
  c. Analyse principles of social justice and equity to design community interventions that address systemic barriers and promote the rights and wellbeing of individuals affected by mental health, alcohol, and other drugs issues.
  d. Research and analyse community agendas goals, values, risks, priorities and strategies to improve outcomes.
  e. Examine the role and effectiveness of non-government organisations (NGOs) in providing support services and advocacy for individuals and communities impacted by mental health, alcohol, and other drug issues.

  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. Analyse contemporary theories of mental illness and their associated interventions.
  b. Evaluate how risks associated mental illness can impact psychological and physical wellbeing as well as life opportunities.
  c. Assess access to services and the continuum of care with particular focus on groups with complex needs and diversities.

  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. Critically evaluate notions of identity, diversity, and difference with a focus on how notions of race, ethnicity, culture, and gender are developed and sustained through language and social structures.
  b. Articulate theories and frameworks of cultural competency and safety, required for working in the public health sector c. Articulate strategies to ensure effective intercultural communication that navigate cultural assumptions about mental health, wellbeing and substance use.
  d. Evaluate how assumptions, biases and attitudes to diversity at individual, social and institutional levels impact social inclusion and marginalisation with a focus on First Nations, LGBTIQA+ and CALD communities.

• 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. Employ evidence-based practices including industry validated tools in recovery planning for people with high risk and non-prescribed substance use.
  b. Employ contemporary intervention techniques demonstrating exemplary interpersonal skills.
  c. Evaluate risk and protective factors for people with AOD challenges using biopsychosocial and harm minimisation frameworks.
  d. Formulate relapse and recovery strategies.
  e. Develop a community support plan for clients with harmful use of 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. Critically review the stages of crisis and formulate early intervention and preventative strategies.
  b. Assess the complex social, health, and legal risks associated with serious mental health and substance use disorder.
  c. Develop a wellness recovery action plan reflecting an individual’s strengths and cultural background.
  d. Assess the impact of family, carer and/or support networks in an individual’s recovery.

  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. Critically analyse 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. Synthesise 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. Critically evaluate current policies related to mental health and AOD including their impact on individuals and communities.
  b. Assess the strengths and limitations of mental health and AOD policies, in relation to community-based care, and community support workers.
  c. Synthesise legal frameworks, national/local policies, and political to identify reform directions for consumers and carers.
  d. Advocate for socially just and equitable policies that support programs for people with a mental illness and/or AOD issues.
  e. Work with various stakeholders, including government agencies, advocacy groups and community organisation to identify and develop policies that address the service needs for people with Mental Health and/or AOD issues.

  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. Critically evaluate societal views of mental health and their potential impact on wellbeing and life opportunities for people experiencing mental health issues.
  b. Critically evaluate evidence-based strategies that educate, or support individuals experiencing mental health issues or disorder or educate or support their carers or supporters.
  c. Critically evaluate programs the improve community perceptions about mental illness and strategies that increase resilience to address stigma, discrimination or disadvantage associated with mental illness.
  d. Critically evaluate how service personnel and wider community attitudes impact those experiencing mental health and substance use issues or disorder.

  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. Critically analyse a range of qualitative and quantitative research techniques in suitable for the research question.
  b. Integrate Australian Human Ethics Standards and intersectional considerations, (including power and privilege) in research design and review.
  c. Critically evaluate research and research literature for its validity, reliability and other limitations.
  d. Develop critical thinking and decision making related to research design and execution.
  e. Apply research skills and critical thinking to the mental health field, AOD or psychology fields.

  Practicum Year 2HEBCHPD104

  Semester two
  

  Inclusion of the Practicum in the program of study is designed to offer students the opportunity to develop evidence based professional practice skills and apply coursework and theoretical learning in a supported workplace environment. Students complete one 200hour work placement in a community or government working practicing skills for mental health, alcohol and other drugs or broader community services sector work.
  
  Key skills Year 2
  On successful completion of the Year 2 Practicum, you are expected to be able to:
  a. Provide evidence-based community support to clients with diverse and complex needs.
  b. Exemplify self-awareness, self-care and reflective practice within a professional framework.
  c. Engage in interdisciplinary collaboration, working effectively with professionals from various fields to provide a holistic client intervention.
  d. Critically evaluate their own performance and identify areas of improvement in the context of client care and professional development.

• 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.