[FrogIsAFrogIsAFr...]

I've already got an MSW, and last year completed a Cert 3 & Cert 4 in current employment specific courses (which I got based on RPL only).

I would like to add to my resume this year, as I would like to secure my current senior position (I have it on contract ATM, and will be applying for it in a few months permanently).

Any ideas on how to advance myself? I would like to hear from other SWers who have topped up their skill set. I work with adolescents and am interested in trauma, cultural issues & mental health. I would like to steer clear of acquiring more HECS if I can, lol!

[ubermum]

What about certificate IV in training and assessment? It would allow you to run short training courses for your collegues or for the young people you work with. For example you may like to run a peer education course for young people on recognising red flags for mental health issues in peers and giving them the skills to link their peers up with appropriate services.

Not sure if that would be relevant. I am not a social worker, just brainstorming.

[FrogIsAFrogIsAFr...]

That's a very good idea! I have previously flagged doing informal training sessions at work. Thanks UM

[howdo]

DH (MSW) is doing a sort of traineeship as a mental health clinician. His mentor person has lined up all sorts of courses for him to do and while I don't understand the entire thing, he's working with this guy to get clinical experience and work with a Medicare number. (Whatever that means!) But it adds to what he can do because he's learning some new skills that he says can get him a higher paying position. It's only 1 evening a week and appears to be counselling. He says he'll be doing some 'grief and loss stuff' for example.

I don't know if that helps in any way but that's what he is doing to increase his skill set. the rest of the things he has/does all come with a HECS debt (Grad Dip in Rehab Counselling, Psych degree, Enrolled Nursing)

[noi'mnot]

Another vote for the assessment and workplace training, it's quite useful (albeit boring as hell while you're doing it!).

I know you said you don't want more HECS, but Orygen Youth Health has a fantastic online Postgraduate Diploma in Adolescent Mental Health through the University of Melbourne (it's online) - I only mention it because you were interested in trauma and mental health. There's also an adolescent mental health first aid course, perhaps you could do the train-the-trainer course for that?

In a senior position, though, do you think it would be worth doing some management type training? I know that it's possible to do training in clinical supervision. I work in community health (I'm not a social worker but work closely with many), and many in supervisory positions have undertaken qualifications in health administration/management, etc.

[FrogIsAFrogIsAFr...]

My position is still a practice position, rather than management but I have opportunities to progress that way offered internally. Adolescent Mental Health sounds very interesting and relevant. I will def have a look - I'm not opposed to paying as I go unit by unit. I could discuss it with work - I might be eligible for some study leave and/ or financial subsidy?!

I just had a check on the AASW website and signed up to an online "CBT Fundamentals: Processes and Techniques in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy", through Aust Psych Society. It's a 10 hour training course, for a start.

I also saw Bravehearts running an online training which looks really comprehensive but I'm not sure whether I want to pay upfront! But again, relevant to my interests.

I do think, if I could get through the Training & Assessment coursework without falling asleep, it'd be professionally invaluable. Thanks for your ideas.