Mental Health Foundations by OTA

We’re pleased to share Mental Health Foundations by OTA , our new mental health eLearning modules. The modules have been developed by OTs for OTs to support the development of foundational skills in mental health practice.

Developed in response to feedback from members, OTA partnered with Deakin University to develop Mental Health Foundations. It has been designed to support development of the capabilities required for mental health endorsement.

The module team used multiple approaches to inform the development of the eLearning, including interviews with key stakeholders, co-production with a First Nations health network, development of case studies and literature reviews of the latest evidence in the field. All content is aligned to OTA’s Mental Health Capability Framework and the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Curriculum Framework. The team also made full use of the learning platform’s multimedia features to ensure the modules are engaging and implemented the principles of Universal Design for Learning.

These modules provide an opportunity for learners to deepen their knowledge and skills from a uniquely occupational perspective. All content is designed to reflect the unique expertise and contribution of the profession and is readily transferable into daily occupational therapy practice.

Module: Mental Health Assessment and Planning

All occupational therapists require the ability to use a range of different assessment tools and to use these as a foundation for the development of appropriate clinical formulation, diagnoses and planning of supports and therapeutic interventions.

What does the module cover?

• Functional Capacity Assessments (including Occupational Formulation)

• Mental State Examination and Risk Assessment

• Personal Safety Planning

• Environmental Assessments

• NDIS Assessment and Reporting

• Physical Health Assessment and Intervention

Module: Mental Health Systems, Diagnoses and Co-occurring Factors

This module will provide you with new knowledge in mental health systems, diagnoses and co-occurring factors from a uniquely occupational therapy perspective.

What does the module cover?

• Mental health frameworks, systems and relevant mental health legislation

• Common mental health diagnoses and treatment

• Occupational therapy models of practice and recovery-oriented practice

• Trauma-informed practice

• Child and Adolescent Developmental Stages and Attachment theory

• Substance use disorders, gambling, and other addictions

• Culturally aware practice

• LGBTIQA+ aware practice

Who are the modules designed for?

The modules are suitable for OTs who are early in their career in mental health practice, as well as experienced clinicians wanting to refresh and build their knowledge.

Accessing the modules

Mental Health Foundations by OTA is self-directed eLearning delivered online, through an interactive platform with downloadable resources. Once you purchase a module, you’ll have six months to complete it at your own pace.

Scan the QR codes to find out more and to register. OTA members can register for the modules at a special reduced rate.

Mental Health Assessment and Planning

Mental Health Systems, Mental Health Diagnoses and Co-occurring Factors