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Assessment and management of co-existing substance use and mental health

This programme is for practitioners working with people who experience co-existing substance use (including gambling) and mental health issues.

Practitioners on the programme gain foundation knowledge in the assessment and management of co-existing substance use and mental health issues. Practitioners complete a postgraduate certificate.

The programme is practice-based and combines clinical experience, academic learning, online and self-directed learning, and practice mentorship.

The programme is available at the University of Auckland and University of Otago (National Addiction Centre, Christchurch).

Eligibility and entry requirements

Registered health professionals employed in a clinical role, or DAPAANZ registered (full or provisional) addiction practitioners in NGO and DHB mental health and addiction services can apply for this programme.

  • Applicants must be a New Zealand citizen or hold a New Zealand permanent resident visa.
  • Applicants must have an undergraduate degree (at least Bachelor's) that qualifies them to work as a registered health professional or registered practitioner.
  • Applicants must be working clinically for at least 0.6 full time equivalent (24 hours a week) where they have at least one year’s experience.
  • Applicants who are new graduates must be working a minimum of 0.7 full time equivalent (28 hours a week).
  • Applicants must be currently working with people with substance use and/or mental health issues.
  • Applicants must meet the university’s criteria for eligibility to study at this level.

Programme details

The programme combines workplace experience, on-campus learning, audio-conference classes, online and self-directed learning, and practice mentorship.

For more information on the programme content and entry criteria, refer to the programme service specifications.

Support available

Skills Matter funding covers all course fees. Programme participants also receive:

  • time away from the workplace (in addition to rostered days off) to attend academic learning
  • supervision or mentoring over the year with an experienced and qualified practitioner who provides the trainee with guidance and support.

A travel and accommodation assistance grant is available for nurses who work 100km or more away from the nearest Skills Matter funded provider. However, this might not meet all of the nurse’s travel and accommodation costs and this should be considered before applying.

How to apply

Please apply directly to the tertiary institute for a funded place on the programme. For all enquiries about the enrolment process, contact the following people:

  • University of Auckland

    Desiree Govender, Postgraduate Admissions, Faculty Student Centre
    Faculty of Medical & Health Sciences
    fmhs@auckland.ac.nz

  • National Addiction Centre, University of Otago

Academic advice