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Advanced Certificate of Mental Health

Learn how to manage common and complex mental health presentations across primary care.

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Advanced Certificate of Mental Health

CPD

31.5 hrs Education
46 hrs Performance
8.5 hrs Outcome

Delivery

Fully online
Learn from
anywhere

Duration

86 hours
Self-paced
Start anytime

Overview

This advanced mental health course for GPs will equip you with the skills to confidently assess and manage a broad range of mental health presentations in general practice — from neurodevelopmental conditions and psychotic illness to dementia, medication prescribing, and mental health emergencies.

Who it is for and what you will learn:

  • Covers dementia, schizophrenia, delusions, autism, ADHD, S4 medications, and emergency mental health.

  • Delivered by GPs with a special interest in mental health and reviewed by mental health professionals.

  • This course is for medical doctors and International Medical Graduates.

  • CPD-accredited and university-reviewed.

Your education pathway

Professional Certificate

Establish foundational clinical knowledge and essential skills.

Learn more

Advanced Certificate

Develop advanced techniques and diagnostic capabilities.

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Learning outcomes

  • Build confidence diagnosing and managing complex mental health presentations seen in general practice.

  • Learn to assess risk, manage acute mental health emergencies, and respond safely to suicidality, acute psychosis, and distressed patients.

  • Safely prescribe S4 medications for mental health.

  • Strengthen long-term, whole-person care for patients with chronic mental illness and cognitive disorders.

  • Learn communication strategies to enhance rapport, adherence, shared decision-making, and patient outcomes in challenging mental health consultations.

Course contents

Dementia - Stages and Management
The "Dementia – Stages and Management" course is designed for healthcare professionals to provide a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and managing dementia. The course covers key aspects such as the different stages of dementia, behavioral and psychological symptoms, and non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions. Participants will also learn strategies for managing physical comorbidities, palliative care, and dementia prevention. This course equips practitioners with the knowledge to provide holistic care for dementia patients, enhancing both patient outcomes and family support.
Schizophrenia
This comprehensive course on _Schizophrenia_ explores one of psychiatry’s most complex and debilitating conditions. Designed for healthcare professionals and students, it provides an in-depth understanding of schizophrenia's causes, clinical features, and evidence-based management. Through five focused units, learners will examine the pathophysiology, symptom progression, diagnostic criteria, and multidisciplinary treatment approaches. Emphasis is placed on early intervention, patient-centred care, and long-term recovery. Rich in clinical insight and practical guidance, this course equips participants with the knowledge needed to recognise, diagnose, and effectively manage schizophrenia across all stages of the illness.
Emergency Mental Health
The _Emergency Mental Health_ course equips general practitioners with essential skills to assess, manage, and respond to acute mental health crises in primary care settings. With emergency presentations on the rise, GPs often serve as first responders. This evidence-based program explores clinical assessment strategies, suicide and self-harm management, psychosis, and mental health legislation. Presented by Dr. Evangelia Francis, the course combines theory with practical guidance, including real-world scenarios, case discussions, and interactive assessments. Designed to enhance GP confidence and competence, this course supports improved patient outcomes and aligns with continuing professional development requirements across Australia.
Management of S4 medications: General and Mental Health
This evidence-based course provides primary care practitioners with essential knowledge and skills for the safe and effective management of Schedule 4 (S4) medications in general and mental health practice. Presented by Dr Edmond Ng, the program explores the regulatory framework, clinical governance, and prescribing guidelines for S4 drugs, with a focus on mental health applications. Through case studies, practical scenarios, and authoritative references, participants learn to minimise risks, recognise adverse effects, and apply safe prescribing practices. The course also highlights de- prescribing strategies, drug–drug interactions, and patient-centred care to enhance treatment outcomes and reduce harm in clinical practice.
Communication Skills in General Practice
Master the art of effective communication in general practice with this evidence-based course. Designed for medical professionals, the course provides actionable strategies to enhance patient understanding, satisfaction, and compliance. You’ll learn the ten essential steps for successful consultations, from preparation to patient follow-up, while improving outcomes through empathy and structured communication. Led by an experienced GP and educator, this course offers practical skills, case discussions, and interactive assessments to optimise your patient interactions and professional growth.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
This comprehensive course on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) provides an in-depth understanding of the condition, including its diagnosis, symptoms, prognosis, and interventions. The course covers the challenges faced by individuals with ASD and their families, as well as the crucial role of early diagnosis and tailored interventions. Participants will explore evidence-based strategies for managing ASD, the impact on families, and the role of general practitioners in supporting individuals with ASD. Ideal for medical professionals, this course offers practical knowledge to improve patient outcomes and support systems.
Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder
This comprehensive course on Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) provides a detailed understanding of this complex neuro-developmental condition, affecting both children and adults. The course covers the nature of ADHD, its symptoms, the burden it places on individuals and society, and the various approaches to treatment and management. Through evidence-based content and expert guidance, learners will gain the knowledge needed to diagnose, manage, and support individuals with ADHD in clinical and personal settings.

Meet your instructors

Dr Edmond Ng Dr Edmond Ng FRACGP
Dr Valia Francis Dr Valia Francis FRACGP MBBS BSci(Neuroscience) DCH DRCOG
Dr Valia Francis Dr Valia Francis FRACGP MBBS BSci(Neuroscience) DCH DRCOG
Dr Edmond Ng Dr Edmond Ng FRACGP
Dr Hilton Koppe Dr Hilton Koppe MBBS
Dr Edmond Ng Dr Edmond Ng FRACGP
Dr Edmond Ng Dr Edmond Ng FRACGP

Other ways to study this topic

Workshop

Complete your certificate online, then build practical skills in the accompanying optional hands-on workshop.

View workshop dates

Short courses

Study selected topics from this certificate as focused, standalone short courses for targeted upskilling in under 10 hours. 

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HealthCert 365

Access selected content from this certificate, plus 4,000+ hours of other CPD across a wide range of clinical areas.

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CPD accreditation and course details

CPD Accreditation and Activities

Accredited CPD activities in this certificate

Each module in this certificate is an RACGP and ACRRM approved CPD activity. The certificate provides 50 hours of CPD for medical professionals in Australia.*

RACGP Activity Number ACRRM Activity Number Activity Title Education Hours Performance Hours
942821  38184 Dementia - Stages and Management 4.0 6.0
1281474 38334 Schizophrenia 4.0 6.0
1281747 38336 Emergency Mental Health 4.0 6.0
1281761 38337 Management of S4 medications: General and Mental Health 3.5 6.0
441312 38105 Communication Skills in General Practice 5.5 6.0
852878 38236 Autism Spectrum Disorder 3.5 5.0
852567 38338 Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder 3.5 5.0
Total hours 28.0 40.0

*When the optional outcome measurement activity (minimum 5 hours) is completed. See our FAQs for more information about annual CPD requirements.

View the CPD Hours for all HealthCert Education activities.

Outcome measurement
The purpose of outcome measurement activities is to improve your clinical confidence in managing an identified learning gap. Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of our Professional Certificate of Advanced Certificate courses; they are a requirement for Australian CPD purposes.

HealthCert Education provides a variety of outcome measurements activities to suit your needs:

  • Outcome Improvement Activities relating to specific topics within a course. They are designed to examine current clinical care, align clinical practice with best practice standards, and identify opportunities for improvement. These activities are accredited with RACGP and ACRRM.

  • Plan Do Study Act (PDSA) options on a specific topic or your identified area. A generic template and guides are provided. PDSAs are self-submitted activities.

  • Additional activities with guides include Test Measurement, Pathology Results, Practice Meetings, Peer Review, Practice Accreditation, Project Management, Student Supervision, and Pick your own topics (General Practice and Log Book methods). These are self-submitted activities.

Entry Requirements

The Advanced Certificate of Mental Health is suitable for physicians and degree-qualified medical practitioners. The prerequisite for this Advanced Certificate course is the successful completion of the HealthCert Professional Certificate of Mental Health (or a qualification deemed equivalent).

Participants do not have to pass an IELTS test but, as the courses are delivered in English, proficiency in listening, reading and writing English is assumed.

Participants will require access to a computer/laptop, an internet connection and a basic level of technology proficiency to access and navigate the online learning portal.

Recognised Prior Learning (RPL)

Professionally recognised qualifications and prior studies may be recognised for entry into this course if the learning outcomes match exactly. Please ask a HealthCert Education Advisor for an individual assessment of your prior qualifications and experience.

Rural GP funding support
A module in this course — "Emergency mental health" —  is recognised under the Rural Procedural Grants Program (RPGP). Eligible rural GPs may be able to apply for partial reimbursement of course fees (subject to RPGP criteria).
Learn more >

Certification

This certificate course meets the minimum 50 hours CPD annual requirement across all three mandatory CPD activity types, provided an outcome measurement activity with a minimum of five hours is completed. You may use an optional HealthCert outcome measurement activity or develop your own.

Outcome measurement activities are not a requirement of Professional or Advanced Certificates.

Upon successful completion of the course requirements, course participants will receive the Advanced Certificate of Mental Health and CPD hours.

This certificate course:

  • Is reviewed by Griffith University to comply with RACGP and ACRRM standards.

  • Is accredited by the General Practice Mental Health Standards Collaboration (GPMHSC).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP).

  • Qualifies for CPD hours from the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM).

  • Meets World Federation of Medical Education standards.

  • Is recognised by Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP). Peer review and audit are compulsory.

  • Is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP). The HKCFP recognises all courses endorsed by the RACGP. Hours are calculated differently.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Dubai. The number of CPD hours must be stated on the certificate. Please contact PLD@dhcr.gov.ae for more information.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in the UK. CPD events overseas, applicable to a doctor’s scope of practice, may be submitted for revalidation. Please confirm with your Responsible Officer.

  • Is a self-submitted activity in Canada through the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Please contact mainprocredits@cfpc.ca for more information.

  • Has been independently developed with subject experts and does not receive education grants from any pharmaceutical company.

To learn more about the delivery of certificates in Australia and overseas, please visit our FAQs.

Pathways

Professional Diploma Pathway

This course is the second stage of the professional diploma pathway. The full pathway is: Professional Certificate of Mental Health, Advanced Certificate of Mental Health, Professional Diploma of Mental Health (coming soon).

Other courses in Mental Health

Learn to develop Mental Health Plans with the Mental Health Training: Core Module, or gain an introduction to PTSD with the Clinical Enhancement Module of Mental Health Skills Training: PTSD – Trauma and Stressor Related Disorders.

Postgraduate pathway for Mental Health

Graduates of the HealthCert Professional Diploma of Mental Health (coming soon) qualify for a scholarship into the Masters of Applied Clinical Psychiatry. These are online course from the UK designed for medical practitioners. Please contact our UK partner directly regarding this scholarship: https://www.diploma-msc.com/s/healthcert 

University quality-assured and CPD-accredited education provider

This organisation is an RACGP-accredited CPD provider under the RACGP CPD Program.

RACGP logo
ACRRM logo
AMA
Bond-Sep-09-2026-05-46-43-7981-AM
Griffith
IDS-1
Graz
Vienna
University of South Wales
Torrens
NSCC-2
Rila
UQ logo

Frequently asked questions

What are the costs and payment options of the course?

Fees will vary based on the program and study option selected (fully online vs online + optional practical workshop). Payments can be made upfront or in monthly instalments. Special rates and various payment options are available. GP registrars and doctors in training enjoy a scholarship of up to $500. Talk to us to learn more.

What is the Alumni Support Program?

Completion of any HealthCert course or attendance at an event will enable you to access the HealthCert Alumni Program which includes:

  • Access to special alumni rates for new courses when they are released.

  • Special alumni price for HealthCert Conferences.

  • Exclusive advanced access to HealthCert events.

  • Regular Alumni Webinars pertaining to the course(s) you have attended. These will provide content review of the course and an opportunity to discuss case studies.

  • Access to the video lectures as seen during the course(s) that you have attended.

How will I receive my certificate?

HealthCert Education is pleased to issue digital credentials for alumni. Digital credentials are a permanent online record of your successful completion of a HealthCert course and are issued to all course participants in addition to PDF certificates. If you are based in Australia, you also have the option to order a hard copy of your digital certificate for a small additional fee.

How long will the course take to complete?

The recommended study duration of this certificate course is listed at the top of this page. The estimated duration includes study of the pre-course activities and readings, online lectures, live tutorials, and online assessment. This self-paced course offers the flexibility of 100% online study in your own time, at your own pace, in your own home or office, with no mandatory face-to-face requirements. You are not required to be online at specific times but can view and replay video lectures at your convenience.

Is this course recognised in my country?

All HealthCert courses meet World Federation of Medical Education standards. This certificate course qualifies for CPD hours from the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP) and the Australian College of Rural and Remote Medicine (ACRRM) in Australia. It is recognised by the Royal New Zealand College of General Practitioners (RNZCGP) in New Zealand. It is recognised by the Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP) in China. It is a self-submitted activity in Dubai and the United Kingdom. It is a self-submitted activity through the College of Family Physicians in Canada. If you live or work outside one of the above-mentioned countries, please contact us on admin@healthcert.com to discuss whether this course can be recognised in your country.

Cancellation policy: What happens if I can't attend a practical workshop?

Course/workshop cancellations and transfers policy

Should you be unable to attend a course or practical workshop you have registered for, please inform us asap at admin@healthcert.com so we can make your place available to waitlisted doctors.

Charges may apply for course/workshop cancellations and/or transfers. Click here for details.

What our alumni say

Join thousands of doctors who have advanced their clinical practice with our certificate courses.

"HealthCert courses have become the standard by which you gauge all others."

Dr K. Abolarinwa

"Good, courses with excellent speakers. I particularly enjoyed the case study scenarios which helped to integrate the knowledge gained."

- Dr A. Tucker

"This is the pathway to improve your confidence and evolve into the GP you aspire to be"

- Dr S. Shinwari

Get in touch with us

Our Education Advisors can assist you with any queries and tailor your education pathway to suit your current expertise, interests and career goals.

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Richard Silsby

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Campbell Elton

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