ECT Training
Te Pou has been commissioned by Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora to refresh and deliver electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) training for the mental health workforce in Aotearoa New Zealand. It replaces the ECT training that was previously delivered at Ko Awatea at Middlemore Hospital in Auckland.
This ECT training is aimed at doctors and nurses who are already working with ECT or plan to do so. However, the foundation module can be accessed by anyone with a professional interest in ECT (including GPs and other health professionals).
Our new hybrid learning model includes eight online, self-paced e-learning modules, plus a compulsory in-person one-day practical training session at Ko Awatea.
Details of the training pathways (foundation module and full training)
Foundation module
- The module introduces ECT and foundational knowledge and skills.
- Available to anyone in the health sector with a professional interest in ECT.
Observe ECT procedure
- Observe minimum of one ECT treatment in your own service to ensure practical familiarity and to help your understanding in the specialist modules to follow.
Specialist modules
- The modules provide detailed, specific ECT knowledge and skills necessary to deliver an ECT treatment safely, therapeutically and efficiently.
- Attend monthly online group sessions with an experienced ECT practitioner to support learning (optional and ongoing).
Assessment of knowledge
- To be completed prior to attending the in-person training day to demonstrate retention of knowledge.
In-person training day
- Demonstrate practical aspects of ECT procedure, explore scenarios and examples, and discuss lived experience, whānau and cultural perspectives.
The training programme has been informed by the guidance and advice of those with lived experience of mental health and addiction, and te ao Māori perspectives. It was developed by experienced ECT trainers and adult education experts.
To apply to do ECT Training, please fill out an expression of interest form and someone from Te Pou will be in contact with you. If you have any questions, please contact Te Pou programme lead Mark Smith on mark.smith@tepou.co.nz
Note: Participants wanting to do the full ECT training programme will need the approval of their employer, including agreement to cover costs for travel and accommodation for the practical training session at Ko Awatea (Auckland).
