# Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling > The Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care is your gateway to advanced practice. This qualification equips you with specialized knowledge in mental health support and counseling. It is designed for existing practitioners seeking career progression into leadership or specialized roles. - Course page: https://upskilluni.com/courses/level-5-extended-diploma-in-health-and-social-care-with-professional-certificate-in-mental-health-support-and-counseling/512 - Provider: [HealthCareCourses](https://upskilluni.com/providers/healthcarecourses) - Price: £1,050, buy online - Study method: Online - Duration: 9 months · Self-paced - Level: Advanced - Qualification: Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling (Ofqual 610/3288/8) - Includes: tutor support, certificate, finance options - Subjects: [Health, Safety & Care](https://upskilluni.com/courses/health-safety-and-care), [Health and Social Care](https://upskilluni.com/courses/health-and-social-care) - Last updated: 2026-11-11 ## Description The **Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care** is your gateway to advanced practice. This qualification equips you with **specialized knowledge** in mental health support and counseling. It is designed for existing practitioners seeking career progression into leadership or specialized roles. You will develop **practical skills** for effective therapeutic communication and complex care management. This comprehensive program builds the competency and confidence needed to make a significant impact. It's ideal for those dedicated to providing high-quality, person-centered support. Ready to elevate your professional journey? Discover how this diploma can transform your career. **About this course** The Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling is your gateway to a profound career. This comprehensive program provides advanced theoretical knowledge and practical skills to excel in complex care environments. You will master specialized counseling techniques for mental health support, enhancing your ability to empower individuals. This Level 5 Extended Diploma opens doors to senior roles like Mental Health Support Worker, Care Manager, or Senior Support Practitioner. It uniquely combines leadership training with specialist therapeutic skills, making you a highly sought-after professional ready to make a real difference. **Benefits of this qualification** The Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling is a critical qualification for addressing the UK's escalating mental health crisis. With an estimated 7.6 million adults in England meeting the criteria for a common mental disorder and 1.87 million people in contact with secondary mental health services, the demand for highly skilled practitioners has never been greater. This comprehensive diploma equips professionals with the advanced mental health support and counselling skills needed to deliver effective, person-centred care. As the NHS and private sector work to expand services, including the 1.2 million annual referrals to NHS Talking Therapies, this qualification provides a direct pathway to senior roles in community support, advocacy, and therapeutic intervention, making it an invaluable asset in today’s health and social care market. ## Curriculum - Academic Study Skills - Communicating in Health and Social Care - An Introduction to Healthcare Policy - Reflective Practice - Managing People in Health and Social Care - Sociology Concepts in Health and Ill Health - Principles Underpinning Health and Social Care - The Management of Quality in Health and Social Care - Research Project - Partnership Working in Health and Social Care - Working with Service Users with Complex Needs ## Who is this course for? Individuals looking to pursue a career in health and social care may find our Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling attractive. This qualification is ideal for: • Individuals working in healthcare settings, such as nurses, care assistants, and healthcare administrators who seek additional skills and knowledge in mental health support and counseling. As per the UK government's NHS Workforce Statistics, 2020-2021 reported a 25% increase in the number of mental health care professionals. • Career changers seeking a new career in a rewarding field that focuses on improving people's lives and well-being. According to the UK's Institute for Social and Economic Research, there is a high demand for mental health and wellbeing professionals in the UK, with a predicted growth of 12.3% by 2025. • Individuals who hold a prior qualification in health and social care and are looking to enhance their skills and knowledge in mental health support and counseling. Our course can be tailored to match the individual's needs and prior experience, providing a valuable opportunity for professional development and career advancement. By studying our Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling, individuals can develop a deeper understanding of mental health, emotional intelligence, and effective communication skills. This can enable them to deliver high-quality care and support to individuals with mental health needs, ultimately enhancing their well-being and quality of life. Our expert tutors and assessors will provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the course, ensuring that all learners receive the skills and knowledge required to excel in their chosen career path. ## Entry requirements A Level 4 diploma or certificate, or an equivalent or higher qualification. OR Candidates with over 2 years of professional experience are encouraged to apply and enhance their career potential. AND Minimum age of 18 years. * International applicants and qualifications are accepted. ## Certificates Qualifi Level 5 Extended Diploma awarded by Qualifi (Ofqual qualification no. 610/3288/8) ## Career path Pursuing a Level 5 Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care with a Professional Certificate in Mental Health Support and Counseling opens doors to a variety of rewarding roles. Mental Health Support Workers provide frontline care and assistance to individuals managing their wellbeing. Counsellors offer therapeutic support, helping clients develop coping strategies and improve their mental health. Community Psychiatric Nurses deliver specialized clinical care and medication management within community settings. Wellbeing Practitioners focus on proactive mental health promotion and early intervention strategies. Primary Care Mental Health Workers operate within GP surgeries, offering initial assessments and brief interventions, a role growing in demand due to increased focus on integrated care systems. This specialized qualification equips you with the advanced counselling skills and knowledge required to make a significant impact in the UK's evolving health and social care landscape. ## Funding Monthly (9 months): 5 × £210 = £1,050; Quarterly (9 months): 2 × £525 = £1,050; Pay in full (9 months): 1 × £997.50 = £997.50; Monthly (6 months): 3 × £450 = £1,350; Pay in full (6 months): 1 × £1,282.50 = £1,282.50. Pay-in-full prices include a 5% bursary. All plans are interest-free with no credit check.