How to become a Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)

A registered professional (nurse, OT, social worker or psychologist) legally approved to coordinate Mental Health Act assessments and detentions. A national shortage role.

Entry routes

From Community Mental Health Nurse (CPN): AMHP training (PGDip, approved) (~2 yrs)
From Mental Health Nurse: AMHP training (PGDip, approved) (~3 yrs)
From Occupational Therapist: AMHP training (PGDip, approved) (~3 yrs)

What you'll need

Academic

Maths & English GCSE (grade 4/C) or equivalent

Qualifications

Employer support

Employer support / sponsorship

Experience

12+ months HCA experience
Clinical experience and references
2+ years post-registration experience

Registration

Active NMC registration as a nurse

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A typical path

£25,272 now → £49,387 in 7 yrs

Healthcare Assistant
Year 0 · Band 2 · entry
£25,272
Nursing Associate
Year 2 · Band 4 · entry
£28,392
Mental Health Nurse
Year 4 · Band 5 · entry
£32,073
Mental Health Nurse
Year 6 · Band 5 · intermediate
£34,592
Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)
Year 7 · Band 7 · entry
£49,387
Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)
Year 9 · Band 7 · intermediate
£51,932

Common questions

How long does it take to become a Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)?

3–5 years from registration — see the step-by-step timeline above for a typical path.

See what you'd earn as a Approved Mental Health Professional (AMHP)

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Indicative — England 2026/27 Agenda for Change basic pay, excludes High Cost Area Supplements, unsocial-hours and overtime. Typical timings are national averages, not guarantees. Not financial advice. See data sources.