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Looking for work that actually matters?

How we feel, connect and function each day is deeply influenced by mental health — and nearly one in two Australian adults will experience mental health concerns during their life.

When support is lacking, the impacts can be devastating, often resulting in homelessness, loss of work, fractured relationships, and physical health decline.

As more Australians seek support, the shortage of mental health workers is a growing concern. In 2020, around only 62,000 qualified workers were registered nationwide — well below what’s required.

Breakthru College’s mental health courses provide the practical training and knowledge needed to begin a rewarding career in this essential sector.

Access expert mental health training with Breakthru College.

Breakthru College—part of the Royal Rehab Group, a trusted not-for-profit providing health and disability services—offers training that’s informed by real-life practice.

Our experienced trainers ensure your education combines theory with real-world application. At Breakthru College, we’re committed to helping you create a purposeful career in mental health care.

Awarded for excellence

Breakthru College is officially recognised by the Department of Education as a High-Performing Provider.

This recognition reflects our commitment to delivering quality training, dedicated student support, and practical job readiness. Choosing Breakthru College means choosing a trusted and proven provider.

Focused on student success

At Breakthru College, we know that no two learners are the same.

Our flexible, student-focused approach includes personalised support, tailored resources, and help with digital tools—so you can thrive whether you study online or on campus.

Led by industry experts

Our team of trainers draw on decades of real-world experience in aged care, disability, and healthcare.

With real-world knowledge, practical guidance, and a passion for teaching, our trainers ensure you’re supported and workplace-ready from the very beginning.

Loved by students

Breakthru College is known for more than qualifications; students value our inclusive and encouraging environment.

Each student is valued as an individual, with a supportive space that encourages growth and confidence. Many go on to study with us again or recommend us to others.

Our mental health courses

Working in mental health support allows caring individuals to create lasting impact in people’s lives and contribute to healthier, more connected communities.

Breakthru College’s nationally recognised courses provide the knowledge and skills to start or advance a career in the mental health sector.

CHC43315

Certificate IV in Mental Health

Designed for those entering the sector, this course supports mental health care work in residential, clinical, and employment program settings.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
12 - 24 months
Work placement
Work placement
80 hours (mandatory)
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • Working with diverse people from all age groups and backgrounds
  • Providing recovery focused support and services
  • Supporting social, emotional and physical wellbeing
  • Managing co-existing diagnoses and conditions
  • Responding to behaviours of concern and crisis situations

Mental Health Courses Near Fortitude Valley

Mental Health Course Fortitude Valley

CHC43515

Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work

If you have personal or carer experience with mental health, this course offers a pathway to roles in various support settings including government and community services.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
12 – 24 months
Work placement
Work placement
80 hours (mandatory)
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • Delivering trauma informed care
  • Facilitating client self-advocacy
  • Applying your lived experiences in a mental health setting
  • Working effectively with clients and carers as a mental health peer worker
  • Developing and maintaining collaborative relationships

Trauma Informed Care

Gain practical skills and insight to support trauma-affected individuals with this expert-developed short course.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
3-hour workshop or self-paced online
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:
  • How to identify warning signs and take steps to avoid re-traumatisation.
  • How to communicate effectively with someone who has experienced trauma.
  • How to help develop strategies and plans to help those with trauma.
  • How to aid recovery with compassion and expertise.
  • How to help those with trauma navigate tasks and situations.
  • How to practice self-care techniques and avoid vicarious trauma.

Mental Health Support Courses Fortitude Valley

Mental Health Course near Fortitude Valley

Mental Health First Aid

Learn to recognise and respond to mental health challenges. Mental Health First Aid gives you the tools to offer early assistance to adults experiencing a mental illness or mental health crisis, supporting them until they can access professional care.

Course overview

Duration
Course duration
This two-day mental health course is delivered under the authority of Mental Health First Aid Australia, by MHFA accredited instructors.
What you’ll learn
What you’ll learn:

The qualification will support individuals in professions at risk of developing mental illness, enabling workplaces to develop practical, evidence-based action plans until appropriate professional help is received.

Affordable mental health training options.

Australian residents living in QLD may be eligible to have all or part of their course fees subsidised using the Skills Assure State Government funding scheme.

Students who do not qualify for funding:

Start with a $200 deposit, then pay as little as $42.89 per week for 12 months.

Skills Asure

Skills Assure (QLD)

Fully or partly subsidised training for Queenslanders is available under the Career Start and Career Boost programs. Complete a short questionnaire on the Skills Gateway website to check whether you qualify.

Regions we serve

Study mental health with Breakthru College through flexible online delivery—designed to fit around your commitments in NSW or QLD.

Express your interest today in studying our online courses from Fortitude Valley.

FAQs

Depending on the qualification, course duration can vary. Accredited programs like a Certificate IV generally take 12–24 months to complete, depending on your study mode.

While both qualifications open doors in the mental health field, they serve different purposes. The Certificate IV in Mental Health equips students with in-depth support skills, whereas the Certificate IV in Mental Health Peer Work draws on personal lived experience to help others in similar situations.

Through supervised placements in mental health or care services, you’ll gain hands-on experience that helps bridge the gap between study and employment.

Breakthru College qualifications can lead into advanced study options, including diplomas and bachelor degrees.

To have past experience recognised, students must enrol in a qualification and complete the RPL form included in the Learner Handbook. An administration fee of $250 applies to each unit.

Yes, as a registered training organisation, Breakthru College provides mental health training online, allowing students to study at their own pace and from any location as an alternative to in-person learning.

Breakthru College offers access to subsidised training for eligible students via Skills Assure in Queensland and Smart and Skilled in New South Wales. Where subsidies aren’t available, students can pay through flexible instalment plans.

If you live in Queensland, you can visit the QLD Government website to check your eligibility.

NSW residents can visit the NSW Government Smart and Skilled page to check eligibility criteria.

Reach out today to take the next step in your professional journey.

Breakthru College offers mental health training that can lead to meaningful roles in a thriving field. Reach out today to see how we can assist with your career goals.

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In the spirit of reconciliation, Royal Rehab acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea, and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and future and we extend our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island peoples.
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