Mental Health Project Officer/Consultant

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  1. Name
    Stefanie C.


  2. Age
    23 yrs


  3. Job Title
    Mental Health Project Officer/Consultant


  4. Job Description
    Consultation with Mental Health Care Professionals and Agencies; Organisation and participation in Consumer Health Care forums/conferences; the preparation of funding proposals for the Department of Human Services (i.e. DHS/Government) for Mental Health Programs, and research; Liaison with DHS; Mental Health Program Research: collation and interpretation of data; Attendance and participation in Mental Health Project Manager meetings; The development and implementation of Health Care Committees and; the preparation and presentation of Consultation Reports to the Executive Board/s.


  5. Hours (per week)
    40 hours PLUS.


  6. What was your first job?
    Gee, it was so long ago now! It was KFC (yes, Kentucky Fried Chicken!) when I was in Year 10. No comment!


  7. What inspired you to choose the particular career you're working in now?
    I completed my work experience in Year 10, for the Moreland City Council Youth Development Program. It was there that I was introduced to mental health, particularly counseling programs for the youth in the local area. From there, I developed a strong interest in pursuing my studies in Psychology. I am no Martyr, but I must say that I am a great believer in philanthropic (i.e. 'for a good cause') pursuits.


  8. What qualifications are needed to work in this field?
    Either a Health Sciences (Nursing/Allied Health)/Science (eg. Psychology/Social Work) Bachelor university degree (preferably an Honours degree) PLUS a major in General Management (or a postgraduate qualification in Management/MBA) OR a Management Bachelor degree with experience in the health care industry. Experience is favourably looked upon!


  9. What are the best aspects about your job?
    Allowing the consumers (and the wider community) to have their say in their own health care. And giving the less-advantaged consumers options for good health care (in my case, their mental health care). This means more content consumers (i.e. the mentally ill) of our Mental Health Services. And what I feel most passionately about is the breaking down of the out-dated stereotypes of the mentally ill (i.e. straitjackets, dingy mental institutions, mean psychiatric nurses in white lab coats)! That is, a more educated and well-informed community.


  10. What are the worst aspects?
    The area of Mental Health can be a little 'depressing' at times. Seeing or hearing of particular cases of clients (and their carers) can really dampen your spirits. But it can also serve as a great driving force and motivator to do something about the 'status quo' or present problems and situations. Not receiving funding grants for what you perceive as (and feel passionately about as) worthwhile projects can be disheartening. In the business of health care (as in any other business), 'no money' means limitations, frustrations and dead-ends basically! Furthermore, the health industry can be extremely political, and cliquey! Think of the Media/Journalism without the celebrities, beautiful people and designer clothing! And did I mention the early Monday morning meetings!


  11. How many years' experience do you have in this field?
    To date, I have had just over one year of full time experience. I have, however, had several experiences of the mental health system and programs throughout my Honours Degree in Psychology.


  12. Are there many employment opportunities?
    Definitely! Especially because Health Care is a top priority for local/state and Federal governments in Australia (not to mention globally) today. There is great emphasis on 'Health Promotion'. WHY? A healthy population equates with a content and productive (Economically speaking) population! Also, it is highly unlikely (although unfortunate) that the need for hospitals and health care centres right around the world will cease to exist!


  13. Other related careers:
    • Mental Health Research Officer
    • Mental Health Resource Officer
    • Mental Health Manager

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