Macmillan Medica Training College
- info@macmillancollege.ac.ke
Mental Health and Psychosocial Support
Course Overview
This certificate equips learners with practical knowledge and skills to provide basic mental health and psychosocial support to individuals and communities affected by stress, trauma, displacement, and adversity. It aligns with WHO and IASC guidelines and is tailored to the Kenyan and African context.
Target Group
- Community health workers
- Volunteers and humanitarian workers
- Teachers, religious leaders, peer counselors
- Social workers and youth mentors
- Health professionals seeking foundational MHPSS knowledge
Duration & Delivery
Total Duration
3 months (12 weeks)
Delivery Mode
Blended Learning (Classroom + Practical + Online Resources)
Study Options
Full-time or Part-time options available
Course Modules
Module 1 Introduction to MHPSS
Definition and principles of MHPSS
The biopsychosocial model
Cultural and societal perceptions of mental health
MHPSS in the Kenyan and African context
Module 2 Common Mental Health Conditions
Depression, anxiety, PTSD, substance use
Severe mental illnesses (e.g., schizophrenia, bipolar disorder)
Identification, screening tools, and referral pathways
Module 3 Psychological First Aid (PFA)
Principles of PFA
Communication and active listening skills
Helping safely and responsibly
Practical role-plays and simulations
Module 4 Psychosocial Support in Practice
Supporting children, adolescents, and vulnerable groups
Working with families and communities
Coping strategies and stress management
Community-based psychosocial interventions
Module 5 MHPSS in Emergencies
Humanitarian principles and protection concerns
Integration of MHPSS in health and humanitarian programs
Group support activities and peer support models
Module 6 Self-Care & Professional Ethics
Stress, burnout, and vicarious trauma
Building resilience among helpers
Boundaries and ethical principles
Confidentiality and safe referral
Module 7 Practical Fieldwork
Community assessments and outreach
Guided field placement or project work
Case study presentations and reflective journaling
Assessment & Certification
Assessment Methods
- Written assignments and quizzes
- Class participation and group discussions
- Practical skills demonstration (e.g., PFA role-play)
- Field report or case study
- Final examination
Certification Requirements
- Minimum attendance: 80%
- Successful completion of all assessments
- Positive field supervisor evaluation (for fieldwork)
Reading Materials
- WHO/UNHCR: mhGAP Intervention Guide
- IASC Guidelines on MHPSS in Emergency Settings
- Local policies and MOH guidelines on mental health in Kenya
- Trainer-developed manuals and handouts
Course Fees Breakdown
Application Fee (non-refundable)
KES 2,500
Tuition Fee
KES 25,000
Skills Lab & Simulation Materials
KES 5,000
ICT & Online Learning Resources
KES 3,000
Library & Student Support Services
KES 2,000
Clinical Placement Supervision
KES 10,000
Examination & Certification
KES 15,000
TOTAL
KES 62,500
Macmillan Medical Training College
Tel: +254799646592 / +254203509346