About the Institute

The Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Training & Development Institute has been developed by Gidget Foundation Australia to address the nationwide shortage of specialist perinatal mental health clinicians. The Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Training & Development Institute has been initiated, developed, and led by Gidget Foundation Australia’s Workforce Development Committee.

The Perinatal and Infant Mental Health Training & Development Institute offers comprehensive ‘on the job’ training and supervision to clinicians who have some clinical experience but limited perinatal mental health experience and are looking to develop skills and experience in the field.

In collaboration with Federation University, Sydney North Health Network, and the Commonwealth, Gidget Foundation Australia is proud to offer mental health professionals the opportunity to complete the Workforce Development Program and obtain a Graduate Diploma in Perinatal Mental Health.

The partnership between Gidget Foundation Australia and Federation University demonstrates a commitment to excellence in education, the advancement of perinatal mental health care, and a unique opportunity to undertake paid placement while you are studying. A blend of academic coursework and supported clinical placement will ensure graduates feel work-ready from the moment they complete the program.

Why Choose Our Program?

• Paid Placement: This paid placement opportunity presents a unique chance for clinicians to simultaneously gain work experience, earn a qualification, and be paid while advancing their career in the perinatal sector.
• Practical Assessments: Our university assessments are designed to be practical and seamlessly integrated into your daily tasks without adding unnecessary workload.
• Expert Guidance: Benefit from the combined expertise of industry professionals and faculty members from Federation University.
• Tailored Curriculum: Integrate the practical and theoretical aspects of the course in real-time by working with clients under the capable supervision of our experienced clinical team.
• Certification: Upon successful completion of the program, participants will be awarded a Graduate Diploma in Perinatal Mental Health, recognising their expertise in this area. The Graduate Diploma can be offered as a stand-alone course or a stepping stone to a Masters in Health qualification.

What You Can Expect:

• A unique opportunity to complete training via a scholarship and a paid work placement.
• This is a 12-month program consisting of workshops, seminars, and online modules developed and led by industry professionals and educators.
• Weekly individual supervision with a dedicated perinatal supervisor.
• The opportunity to work in one of our Gidget House locations or deliver services via telehealth.
• This program requires a commitment of two days per week.

Gidget Foundation Australia Offers:

• Centralised administrative support, appointment booking, and service promotion.
• No rental or overhead contributions.
• Free professional development opportunities and GFA-funded places available.

Clinician Requirements:

• Accreditation or registration as a clinical or registered psychologist, accredited mental health social worker, or mental health occupational therapist.
• Trainees are expected to commit to building up to seeing a minimum of five clients a week for 12 months.
• Ongoing commitment to continue employment with GFA for at least one day per week for 12 months post the one-year academic program.
• At least two years post-registration or accreditation experience is desirable.
• Interest in perinatal mental health work.
• Demonstrated high-level communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently under approved professional supervision.
• Effective caseload management.

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