If you want to deepen your understanding of mental health and the assessment and treatment methods for people with psychological disorders, this course is ideal professional development for you.
The Certificate of Psychology (Mental Health) is an online professional development course that explores mental health, its historical foundations, and modern diagnostic, assessment, and treatment approaches.
In this online psychology course, you will gain insights into childhood and adolescent mental health disorders, including ADHD, autism spectrum disorders, anxiety, depression, and conduct disorders. You will learn about evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), and trauma-focused therapy.
You will also develop an understanding of cognitive and neurocognitive disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, focusing on risk factors, early detection, and management strategies. Additionally, you will study mood disorders, anxiety disorders, psychotic disorders, personality disorders, substance-related disorders, gender dysphoria, and eating, sleeping, and somatic disorders. You will also learn about treatment options and how to reduce societal stigma and promote inclusion.
On completion of this course, you will have a comprehensive understanding of mental health and assessment and treatment options to support people with psychological disorders.
Course Structure
Unit - Certificate of Psychology (Mental Health)
Unit 1 – Foundations of Mental Health
- What is mental health?
- Historical perspectives on mental health
- Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
- Research methods in psychology and mental health
Unit 2 – Childhood and Adolescent Mental Health Disorders
- Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD)
- Conduct Disorders
- Oppositional Defiant Disorders
- Depression in young people
- Anxiety in young people
- Treatments and interventions
- Evidence-based therapeutic approaches for youth
- Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy
- Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
- Play Therapy
- Trauma-Focused CBT
- Family-Based Interventions
- Mindfulness and relaxation techniques
Unit 3 – Cognitive and Neurocognitive Disorders
- Dementia
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Neurocognitive disorders
- Risk factors and causes
- Management and treatment
- Causes and progression
- Early detection strategies
- Interventions for early stages
- Barriers to early detection
Unit 4 – Mood and Anxiety Disorders
- Depressive disorders
- Bipolar Disorder
- Bipolar I Disorder
- Bipolar II Disorder
- Persistent Depressive Disorder
- Seasonal Affective Disorder
- Generalised Anxiety Disorder
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Phobias
- Post-traumatic stress disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Treatments and interventions
- Support systems and psychoeducation
Unit 5 – Schizophrenia and Psychotic Disorders
- What are psychotic disorders?
- Types of psychotic disorders
- Causes and risk factors
- Recognising the symptoms of schizophrenia
- Negative symptoms
- Positive symptoms
- Genetic factors
- Environmental and social factors
- Developmental and psychological factors
- Treatment options: medication and psychosocial
- Reducing stigma
- Promoting societal inclusion
Unit 6 – Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
- Substance use
- Substance dependence
- Substance addition
- Risk factors for dependence and addiction
- Effects of alcohol, prescription medications and illicit drugs
- Risk factors and triggers for addiction
- Evidence-based prevention
- Evidence-based treatment
Unit 7 – Personality Disorders
- Overview of personality disorders
- Definitions and core features
- Categories of personality disorders
- Paranoid Personality Disorder
- Schizoid Personality Disorder
- Schizotypal Personality Disorder
- Antisocial Personality Disorder
- Borderline Personality Disorder
- Histrionic Personality Disorder
- Narcissistic Personality Disorder
- Avoidant Personality Disorder
- Dependent Personality Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Personality Disorder
- Understanding psychopathy
- Understanding sociopathy
- Adjustment disorders
- Impulse control disorders
- Managing compulsive behaviours
Unit 8 – Gender, Sexuality and Mental Health
- Sexual dysfunctions and their psychological impact
- Causes, treatments and support
- Understanding paraphilias
- Causes and risk factors
- Gender dysphoria
- Gender identity
- Support and treatment options
Unit 9 – Eating and Sleeping Disorders
- Eating disorders
- Anorexia
- Bulimia
- Binge eating
- Other eating disorders
- The psychology of obesity
- Compulsive eating behaviours
- Common sleep disorders
- Insomnia
- Sleep apnoea
- Narcolepsy
Unit 10 – Somatic Symptoms and Other Disorders
- Somatic Symptom Disorder
- Illness anxiety disorder
- Treatment options
- Challenges in diagnosis and treatment
- Body Dysmorphic Disorder
- Conversion
- Factitious disorders
- Dissociative disorders
- Dissociative Identity Disorder
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Approval and Recognition
Australian Online Courses Pty Ltd is an approved and recognised member of IARC. The IARC is an International association that recognises quality and excellence in tertiary education providers.
Testimonials
A great way to learn new things. Highly recommend.
J. McMahon, North Albury NSW | Certificate in Abnormal Psychology
This course was a little differently set out than previous courses I’ve done with Australian online courses. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you
L, Spalviero, Pasco Vale VIC | Certificate of Abnormal Psychology
I loved this course so much, 10/10!!! I learnt so much and I actually enjoyed spending my time researching and learning stuff that I didn’t know about previously.
L.Kanellos, Glen Huntly, VIC | Certificate of Abnormal Psychology
Studying with Australian Online Courses was a positive experience. It was easy to navigate through the website and log in portal, and found the course had a good, adequate about of information to gain the knowledge need to complete the course.
Jessica | Blanchetown, SA| Certificate of Psychology (Mental Health)
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrolment Form – Employment Services and Rehabilitation Providers
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional development for individuals working or aspiring to work in the community and health sectors.
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