- Program Highlights -
The Thailand International Mental Health Workforce Training Program 2026 is an international training course for mental health professionals organized by the Department of Mental Health in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).
Key dates and participation details for the 2026 training program.
22 June – 10 July 2026
13 – 17 July 2026 at Prince Palace Hotel
During the onsite program, participants will also take part in the 25th International Mental Health Conference, held on 15 – 17 July 2026.
The International Mental Health Workforce Training Program is organized by the Department of Mental Health Thailand in collaboration with the World Health Organization. The program aims to strengthen the capacity of public health personnel in mental health and psychiatry and to promote the development of mental health service systems at the international level.
This one-month training program has been developed based on the Thai specialized nursing training course in Mental Health and Psychiatric Nursing. The curriculum was originally developed by a committee from psychiatric service institutions under the Department of Mental Health, including the Somdet Chaopraya Institute of Psychiatry, Srithanya Psychiatric Hospital, Galya Rajanagarindra Institute, and Prasrimahabhodi Psychiatric Hospital, in collaboration with academic partners: the Faculty of Nursing Mahidol University and the Faculty of Pharmacy Siam University.
Since 1997, the Department of Mental Health has organized this training annually. By 2022, a total of 825 mental health professionals had completed the program and are currently providing mental health services in psychiatric hospitals across Thailand.
In 2023, in line with the plan to expand the role of the Department of Mental Health as a WHO Collaborating Centre and to promote Thailand’s leadership in public health, the course was adapted for international participants. The Bureau of Mental Health Academic Affairs, Department of Mental Health, in collaboration with the World Health Organization, has since organized the international training program.
To date, three international cohorts have been successfully conducted:
Participants from various countries have provided positive feedback, noting that the course content is highly relevant and beneficial for their professional practice and can be effectively applied within the context of their respective countries.
Recognizing the importance of strengthening mental health capacity in the region, the Department of Mental Health, through the Bureau of Mental Health Academic Affairs, continues to develop this international program to support the advancement of mental health and psychiatric services among ASEAN Member States and partner countries within the Department’s mental health collaboration network. The program aims to promote sustainable progress and strengthen mental health service systems in multiple dimensions.
In 2026, the Department of Mental Health will organize the 4th International Mental Health Workforce Training Program. The program focuses on enhancing the competencies of specialized nurses and public health personnel to provide proactive mental health services within communities, including mental health promotion, prevention and management of risk factors, screening for vulnerable groups, basic therapeutic support, and referral to appropriate healthcare facilities when necessary.
The program also emphasizes continuous care for individuals with complex mental health conditions or severe mental illness, as well as knowledge exchange and the sharing of best practices among participants from different countries. Participants are encouraged to apply the knowledge and skills gained to strengthen mental health services within their respective national contexts.
Participants will engage in an interdisciplinary curriculum focusing on mental health systems, psychiatric services, and community mental health care.
The program integrates theoretical learning with practical experience through case-based discussions, expert lectures, and study visits. Participants will gain knowledge and skills in:
The curriculum is designed to strengthen participants’ ability to apply evidence-based practices in their own professional and national contexts.
Participants will have opportunities to exchange experiences and best practices with mental health professionals from different countries.
The program encourages peer learning and regional collaboration, enabling participants to explore innovative approaches to mental health service development and policy implementation in their respective countries.
By joining the program, participants become part of a growing international network of mental health professionals trained through the program.
This network supports ongoing collaboration, knowledge sharing, and partnerships aimed at strengthening mental health systems across ASEAN and partner countries.
This program is designed for professionals who:
Since the international program was launched in 2023, the training has welcomed participants from multiple countries across Asia and beyond.
Across the first three cohorts, the program has trained 95 participants from 16 countries, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Sri Lanka, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, and Vietnam.
The program continues to expand its international reach and serves as a platform for regional knowledge exchange and capacity building in mental health.
To encourage the practical application of knowledge gained during the program, participants will be invited to engage in post-training follow-up activities.
Participants are encouraged to apply the knowledge and skills obtained from the training by implementing projects, initiatives, or activities related to mental health in their respective countries or institutions.
Follow-up sessions will be organized approximately 6 months and 12 months after the training, where participants will have the opportunity to:
These sessions will be conducted online via Zoom and will serve as a platform for continued collaboration and peer learning among participants.
The program will provide the following support:
Participants and/or their sponsoring organizations are responsible for the following expenses:
For more detailed information about the program, please refer to the Information Note.
Download Information NoteApplications open until 30 May 2026
Applications to the program will undergo a competitive selection process.
All applicants will be notified of their application status via email by mid-June 2026 from mhworkforcetraining.thailand@gmail.com
Applicants are encouraged to apply through the online registration form.
Apply NowIf you cannot access Google Form, please download the application form and submit it via email.
Download Application FormApplicants are required to prepare and submit the following documents:
Applicants should explain their interest in participating in the program, as well as their future goals related to mental health development. The letter should reflect the applicant’s potential and commitment to contributing to mental health work after completing the program. (Maximum length: 1–2 pages, A4)
Applicants should describe their professional background, relevant work experience, and expectations for participating in the program. (Maximum length: 1–2 pages, A4)
Applicants are required to download, complete, and sign the consent form and submit it together with the application documents.
Provided free of charge during the onsite training period
12 July 2026
15:00
18 July 2026
12:00
7 nights12–18 July 2026
Between Suvarnabhumi Airport and the hotel
12 July 2026
18 July 2026
Important Notice: Participants must submit their round-trip flight details at least 7 days prior to travel in order for airport transfer arrangements to be made.
The language of the training is English.
Training Days: Smart casual
International Conference (15–17 July 2026): Business attire
Participants are kindly requested to wear neutral colours such as black, white, grey, or navy and avoid bright or flashy colours.
Participants must have a passport with at least six months of validity remaining.
Participants who require a visa to enter Thailand must obtain the appropriate visa category for participation in a training program prior to travel.
Participants are advised to consult the Royal Thai Embassy or Consulate in their country for visa requirements.
Participants are responsible for arranging their own accident, health, and baggage insurance.
The currency in Thailand is the Thai Baht (THB).
Approximate exchange rate: 1 USD ≈ 34 THB
Common payment methods in Thailand include cash, credit cards, and mobile payments. Participants are advised to carry some cash, as small shops may not accept cards.
During June–July, the weather in Thailand is typically hot and humid. Temperatures usually range from 25°C to 35°C.
Please contact the organizing team for questions related to the program, application documents, travel arrangements, or application support.
