Micro-credential Overview
This micro-credential is designed to provide de-escalation skills and techniques for people working in the health and wellbeing sector. The purpose of this micro-credential is to formally recognise the skills and techniques required to manage and de-escalate challenging situations.
By mastering de-escalation approaches, graduates help reduce the risk of harm, foster respectful interactions, and support recovery-oriented care. Learners who complete the De-escalation Skills and Techniques for the Health and Wellbeing Sector micro-credential will make meaningful contributions to their communities by enhancing safety, communication, and wellbeing in high-stress environments.
Learners will have theoretical and practical knowledge to demonstrate competencies required to:
- Describe the role of communication in de-escalation when working in a health or wellbeing setting.
- Describe the triggers that can lead to behaviours of concern, and the correct use of de-escalation when working in a health or wellbeing setting.
Content includes:
- Communication (verbal / non-verbal)
- Active listening
- Self-awareness and building relationships
- Setting boundaries
- Triggers and stages in an aggressive event (trigger, escalation, crisis point, recovery, post-crisis depression)
- De-escalation techniques (verbal / non-verbal)
- Safety plans
- Team planning and process
- Sensory modulation
- Use of family / whānau and community supports (e.g. formal and informal peer support).
Prerequisites
Learners need to be working in a relevant sector. Learners are also required to have reasonable computer literacy as micro-credential assessments are only offered online (via Aka Toi). It is recommended but not a requirement for learners to hold a Level 4 health and wellbeing qualification.
Learning and Assessment Resources
Learning and assessments will be completed via Careerforce’s online learning platform, Aka Toi.
Download micro-credential brochure