Careers in Mental Health <

How do I become a Mental Health Nurse

Mental health is an exciting and challenging nursing specialty that exercises a unique set of skills that are highly valued by the community, employers and colleagues, irrespective of the practice setting.

Mental Health Nursing is well suited to those who:

• have an understanding of people
• have a capacity for empathy
• have a capacity to work with diversity
• are accountable and decisive
• have critical thinking and critical reflection capabilities
• are interested in psychology
• appreciate the importance of therapeutic relationships in recovery from illness

Although there was once separate educational preparation for general and mental health nurses, contemporary undergraduate nursing education (Bachelor of Nursing courses) now prepare nurses as beginning practitioners in a range of health settings, including mental health. Further specialist preparation for mental health nursing takes place at postgraduate level.

After completing a Bachelor of Nursing Degree, which is a three year accredited course undertaken at a University, registered nurses (Division 1) can apply via mental health service providers such as hospitals. Nurses employed in the public mental health sector are encouraged and supported to undertake a Graduate Year Program or a post graduate course in mental health nursing.

Registered nurses (Division 2) wishing to work in mental health are encouraged to complete the basic module in mental health nursing available through TAFE colleges and other registered training providers.

A comprehensive list of both undergraduate university courses for Division 1 nurses and registered training organisations for Division 2 nurses are available on the Nurses Board of Victoria website: www.nbv.org.au or alternatively from the respective educational organisation websites.

After registration, specialist graduate nurse programs, preceptorship and further postgraduate study allow for further development of specialist mental health nursing skills and knowledge. Following specific mental health nursing postgraduate qualifications nurses can then apply to the NBV for endorsement as a mental health nurse.