New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) (Level 4) Mental Health and Addiction Support
Help individuals in mental health and addiction settings to recover, foster hope and build resilience.
This programme is designed to equip you to work effectively as a mental health and addiction support worker in the health and wellbeing sector.
You’ll acquire the skills required to support individuals to foster hope, build resilience, and reduce vulnerability. Your learning will include trauma-informed care, bicultural competence grounded in mātauranga Māori and Te Tiriti o Waitangi, culturally inclusive practice, and tools for de-escalation and conflict resolution. You’ll also develop strong communication skills that respect socio-cultural identity, alongside self-awareness, reflective practice and personal leadership.
As part of your studies, you’ll complete 200 hours of workplace practice, giving you hands-on experience in mental health and addiction settings that will prepare you for employment. If you're already employed or volunteering in a relevant organisation, this will count as your placement.
Check out the Health and Wellbeing FAQ's in the Documents section.
Part-time up to 4 years.
Fees for 2025
10 NCEA Level 1 literacy credits and 10 NCEA Level 1 numeracy credits
Or New Zealand Certificate in Study and Employment Pathways (Level 3) Open Pathway, or equivalent
In addition you need to provide:
- Referee Reports Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports.
- Signed Disclosure Form Successful applicants will be required to complete a disclosure form.
- Interview Applicants who meet entry criteria may be required to attend an interview to ensure they are a fit and proper person to provide support in the workplace.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
Still want to study but don't meet the Academic Requirements?
If you show that you have equivalent skills for tertiary study gained through study, work and/or life experience, you may be able to gain alternative entry.
Note: The number of courses you have to complete for this qualification may be reduced where you have relevant credits from previous study, or evidence of similar learning or experience in the workplace.
What if English is not my first Language?
If English is not your first language, we want to make sure that you will be successful in your chosen programme of study.
- Please provide a result from a test or qualification on the acceptable alternatives
- If you are a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent Resident, complete an Admission and Enrolment form and Ara will contact you regarding a free assessment.
- If you are not a New Zealand Citizen or Permanent resident, book an IELTS or other test through the Ara Examination Centre or in your home country.
- IELTS scores used must be taken from a single IELTS Test Report Form and are valid for two years from the date of the test.
What if I have achieved New Zealand University Entrance?
If you have met New Zealand University Entrance requirements or acceptable alternatives as defined by NZQA you are not required to provide evidence of English Language proficiency.
Overall IELTS 5.5 Academic
- 5.0 Listening
- 5.0 Reading
- 5.0 Writing
- 5.0 Speaking
Funding assistance
If you face unexpected financial hardship during your studies, we have several funds that you can apply for. These are designed to enable you to continue your current course of study. We also have a wide range of scholarships and awards that can provide financial assistance.
Find out moreCareer opportunities
As a graduate of this programme, you’ll be prepared for entry-level roles in the mental health and addiction support sector. Employment opportunities may include residential services, community mental health organisations, addiction recovery programmes, peer support roles, and whānau-centred services.
Study pathways
On completion of this programme, you may be eligible to progress into further study such as the Bachelor of Social Work.
New Zealand Certificate in Health and Wellbeing (Social and Community Services) Mental Health and Addiction Support
Help individuals in mental health and addiction settings to recover, foster hope and build resilience.
| Information | |
|---|---|
| Type | Certificate |
| Code | NZ2992 |
| May be available for Study Visa? | Yes |
| Credits | 120 |
| Level | 4 |
| May be eligible for Studylink? | Yes |
| May be eligible for Fees Free? | Yes |
| Reference | NZ2992-MHAD |
Fees for 2025
With an internationally-recognised Ara qualification, the world is your oyster. Our graduates can be found working and making a difference across the globe…
MoreAdditional Entry Requirements
In addition you need to provide:
- Referee Reports Provide evidence of good character and personal attributes via two referee reports.
- Signed Disclosure Form Successful applicants will be required to complete a disclosure form.
- Interview Applicants who meet entry criteria may be required to attend an interview to ensure they are a fit and proper person to provide support in the workplace.
- Consent to Disclosure of Information Successful applicants will be required to complete a New Zealand Police Consent to Disclosure of Information form.
Credit Recognition
If you have prior relevant experience or previous related study credits, you may be eligible for credit recognition towards this qualification.
Find out moreDocuments
- Admission & Enrolment Form PDF, 431 KB
- International Application Form PDF, 358 KB
- Health and Wellbeing Additional Requirements Form PDF, 204 KB
- Health & Wellbeing FAQ PDF, 125 KB
Area of Interest
Need some help picking the right course for you?
Send us an enquiry or book a tour and experience Ara for yourself!