Addictions and Mental Health
This online Ontario College Graduate Certificate program is primarily designed to enhance and further develop the skills of individuals who already work in health care or the social services field and who are interested in specializing in addictions and mental health.
- The Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF) affirms that this program meets the education requirement component of their certification process
- Benefit from supportive and experienced facilitators who are active in their industry
- Courses are built with flexibility in mind and can be accessed anytime and from anywhere
Program Availability and Schedule
Availability
Open
Closed
Waitlisted
Start Term
Availability
Competitive?
Spring 2024
No
Fall 2024
No
Winter 2025
No
Spring 2025
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
Upon completion of the program, students possess the knowledge and skills to work with vulnerable populations in a variety of community mental health and addictions services settings, dependent on their prior experience and credentials, and skills built in the program. These settings may include social service and government agencies, mental health agencies, residential treatment centres, group homes, homeless shelters, school boards, services for specific vulnerable populations, family counselling programs, crisis response services, community outreach programs, community justice programs, medical detox programs, long-term care facilities, hospices, and other establishments.
The Addictions and Mental Health Graduate Certificate (AMH) is recognized by the Canadian Addiction Counsellor Certification Federation (CACCF), Canada's Addiction Workforce Regulator. The CACCF affirms this program enables graduates to meet their certification requirements....(read more)
Overview
This online Ontario College Graduate Certificate program is primarily designed to enhance and further develop the skills of individuals who already work in health care or the social services field and who are interested in specializing in addictions and mental health. There is a growing need for coordinated services by professionals with the knowledge and skills to treat concurrent disorders. Students take an interdisciplinary approach to the study of mental health, mental illness, substance use including focus on holistic assessment and intervention strategies, recovery process, and promotion of ongoing mental health. Students acquire the knowledge, skills, and abilities required by mental health professionals to deliver responsive and effective substance use disorder treatment and mental health services, while promoting empowerment, self-determination, and optimum quality of life to individuals. Students gain practical experience through the supervised field placement where they can apply knowledge of best practices and further enhance their skillsets. During placement, students are paired with a Field Placement Liaison for support and guidance.
Upon completion of the program, students possess the knowledge and skills to work with vulnerable populations in a variety of community mental health and addictions services settings, dependent on their prior experience and credentials, and skills built in the program. These settings may include social service and government agencies, mental health agencies, residential treatment centres, group homes, homeless shelters, school boards, services for specific vulnerable populations, family counselling programs, crisis response services, community outreach programs, community justice programs, medical detox programs, long-term care facilities, hospices, and other establishments.
The Addictions and Mental Health Graduate Certificate (AMH) is recognized by the Canadian Addiction Counsellor Certification Federation (CACCF), Canada's Addiction Workforce Regulator. The CACCF affirms this program enables graduates to meet their certification requirements.
SUCCESS FACTORS
This program is well-suited for students who:
- Are interested in improving the quality of life for those with mental health and/or substance use challenges.
- Want to contribute as team members in a wide range of dynamic environments.
- Are non-judgmental, flexible, mature and compassionate.
- Like to support, empower, and encourage others.
- Have patience and can handle stress and remain calm in difficult situations.
- Are comfortable with self-reflective practice.
- Possess critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Have an ability to practice self-care.
- Can communicate clearly and set professional boundaries.
- Are comfortable advocating for both self and others.
Courses
Registration Note:
Applications for this full-time program must be submitted on Ontario Colleges. If you are interested in the part-time delivery of the program, please refer to the part-time program page for course by course registration. The courses take place entirely online and do not require you to come to campus. Without a set class time you can complete your assignments when it’s most convenient for you while following the course deadlines.
Online  |
| Course Number | Hours | Course Name | Summer | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | ||||||
| SSC1010F | 42.0 | Mental Health and Addiction FoundationsSSC1010F Mental Health and Addiction FoundationsThis course provides an introduction to addictions, mental health and concurrent disorders, the unique features of each and the integration of services and supports in addictions and mental health. Students explore the prevention and treatment continuum in Canada, historical and cultural perspectives and frameworks and models. A bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework is addressed, and current practices are reviewed, including research and best practice guidelines. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1020F | 42.0 | Introduction to CounsellingSSC1020F Introduction to CounsellingStudents study theoretical concepts and practical skills necessary to assist clients in recognizing concerns or issues and working toward desired outcomes. Students are introduced to the theoretical foundations of various models of counselling and develop active listening skills. A key focus is assisting clients to identify and highlight their strengths by finding positive outcomes that are related to their concerns or issues. Learning to facilitate client self-empowerment and development occurs by acquiring additional skills through the effective use of queries, observation, self-reflection and a comprehensive understanding of a client's behaviour and communication style. Students also examine information and assistances concerning crisis, grief and bereavement. Learning outcomes are achieved through the use of lecture, discussion, experiential exercises and presentation of audio and visual resources. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1030F | 45.0 | Chemical Dependency and Substance Use and AbuseSSC1030F Chemical Dependency and Substance Use and AbuseThis course educates students about drug and alcohol use and the abuse of various substances in the body and how it affects ones behaviour. An introduction to the science of Pharmacology is included and students will study a number of drugs such as: alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs, hallucinogens, cocaine, narcotics, and marijuana, inhalants, and steroids. They will also examine concepts of clinical practice and program design and learn how and when to apply them. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1040F | 45.0 | Community Services and Supports in Addictions and Mental HealthSSC1040F Community Services and Supports in Addictions and Mental HealthAccess to mental health and addictions services can be challenging due to the complexity of the system of service, funding sources, and issues relating to stigma and barriers. In this course, students learn about the current issues, trends and developments in the integration of services in order to promote coordinated, efficient access to services while focusing on early intervention, treatment and community supports. Students explore a range of services for children, youth, adults, older adults, and individuals with special needs. Workplace issues and supports are discussed. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1050F | 42.0 | Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of HealthSSC1050F Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of HealthBio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment, interventions and the determinants of health are explored in this course. Students will examine Holistic interventions and current practices such as mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, selfcare and continuing care. Interdisciplinary practice and interprofessional collaboration is emphasized. Students will also explore the role of the family in holistic intervention. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1060F | 42.0 | Counselling Gender and DiversitySSC1060F Counselling Gender and DiversityStudents enhance their capacity in working with members of non-dominant populations. Students facilitate development of self-awareness, theoretical knowledge, and skill acquisition. Assignments entail a strong component of personal reflection and self assessment. Students develop knowledge and skills necessary to inform work with multicultural and diverse individuals and groups identified by age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Students critically examine the concept of diversity, stigmatized social identities, and the impact on services and supports. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1070F | 42.0 | Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Addictions and Mental HealthSSC1070F Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Addictions and Mental HealthIn this course, students develop their knowledge of ethical guidelines and practice in addictions and mental health within an inter-professional context. Students reflect on their individual scope of practice and build on their understanding and practice of effective and professional teamwork. Inter-professional and ethical challenges and dilemmas are analyzed in case scenarios, and ethical approaches are discussed. Students review certification options after graduation and develop personal plans and professional portfolios. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| Level: 02 | ||||||
| SSC2010F | 42.0 | Group Counselling for Addictions and Mental Health PractitionersSSC2010F Group Counselling for Addictions and Mental Health PractitionersStudents develop knowledge and skills in facilitating counselling groups with individuals who are experiencing issues related to addictions and mental health. Students examine group theory, group dynamics, and group processes and apply their knowledge to group facilitation. Practical application is emphasized and each student is given the opportunity to experience leading, facilitating and participating in simulated groups. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2020F | 42.0 | Motivational Interviewing and Change Theory PracticeSSC2020F Motivational Interviewing and Change Theory PracticeMotivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-oriented, collaborative, evidence-informed approach to counselling which is focused on exploring and resolving ambivalence and enhancing motivation to change. Students study the application of MI in addictions and mental health. Practical skills, concepts and essential strategies of MI are integrated into clinical practice in order to promote behaviour change and maintenance of gains. Through case studies, demonstrations, and experiential learning, students develop their MI skills. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2030F | 45.0 | Working with Youth and FamiliesSSC2030F Working with Youth and FamiliesYouth are a highly diverse group and vary in age, development, culture, religion, sexual orientation, skills, capacities, interests, and strengths. Students examine youth in a system of relationships such as family, peers, their community, and others and the ways the members of this system can have a significant impact on substance use, as well as other addictions and mental health. Students are introduced to current issues in addiction and mental health in youth, risk factors and other considerations for assessment, treatment counselling, relapse prevention, maintenance, and other supports including harm reduction and skill building strategies. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2040F | 45.0 | Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural AddictionsSSC2040F Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural AddictionsStudents critically review disorders characterized by diminished control over behaviour such as gambling, internet use, and gaming. These disorders have historically been conceptualized as impulse control disorders and/or non-substance or behavioural addictions. An overview of disordered eating and sexual addiction is also covered. Students study the classification of DSM. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2050F | 45.0 | Introduction to Trauma-Informed PracticeSSC2050F Introduction to Trauma-Informed PracticeStudents explore trauma-informed practices at the individual, organizational and systemic levels. Students develop an understanding of the diverse needs of trauma survivors and how women, men, children and youth experience trauma differently. The effect of trauma on the brain is studied and the way service may be adapted is discussed. An overview of services for people with trauma, substance use, and mental health including parenting, child welfare, and supports for children are examined. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2060F | 42.0 | Community Capacity BuildingSSC2060F Community Capacity BuildingBuilding the capacity in individuals, families and the community in early identification and intervention in addictions and mental health, is essential in providing integrated service and supports. Students examine theory and practice of knowledge exchange (KE) and capacity building including current research, networks, and effective and efficient processes to bring theory to practice. Students design and develop a product that may be used in education and capacity building. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC2070 | 28.0 | Field Placement Preparation CourseSSC2070 Field Placement Preparation CourseStudents learn what they need to do in order to complete their field placement experience in the final term by examining both practical and necessary skills and activities. Students engage in building professional writing skills, self reflection, and explore their career goals. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| Level: 03 | ||||||
| FLD0020 | 300.0 | Field Placement and Special Topics SeminarFLD0020 Field Placement and Special Topics SeminarStudents explore skillsets such as professional writing, community referrals, evaluate and explore both community resources and personal perspectives from people in recovery. Students receive support from a Field Placement Liaison through individual coaching sessions while completing on-site placement. Pre-requisites: SSC1010 All theory courses successfully completed. AND SSC1020 AND SSC1030 AND SSC1040 AND SSC1050 AND SSC1060 AND SSC1070 AND SSC2010 AND SSC2020 AND SSC2030 AND SSC2040 AND SSC2050 AND SSC2060 AND SSC2070 This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
SSC1010F Mental Health and Addiction Foundations
This course provides an introduction to addictions, mental health and concurrent disorders, the unique features of each and the integration of services and supports in addictions and mental health. Students explore the prevention and treatment continuum in Canada, historical and cultural perspectives and frameworks and models. A bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework is addressed, and current practices are reviewed, including research and best practice guidelines.
SSC1020F Introduction to Counselling
Students study theoretical concepts and practical skills necessary to assist clients in recognizing concerns or issues and working toward desired outcomes. Students are introduced to the theoretical foundations of various models of counselling and develop active listening skills. A key focus is assisting clients to identify and highlight their strengths by finding positive outcomes that are related to their concerns or issues. Learning to facilitate client self-empowerment and development occurs by acquiring additional skills through the effective use of queries, observation, self-reflection and a comprehensive understanding of a client's behaviour and communication style. Students also examine information and assistances concerning crisis, grief and bereavement. Learning outcomes are achieved through the use of lecture, discussion, experiential exercises and presentation of audio and visual resources.
SSC1030F Chemical Dependency and Substance Use and Abuse
This course educates students about drug and alcohol use and the abuse of various substances in the body and how it affects ones behaviour. An introduction to the science of Pharmacology is included and students will study a number of drugs such as: alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs, hallucinogens, cocaine, narcotics, and marijuana, inhalants, and steroids. They will also examine concepts of clinical practice and program design and learn how and when to apply them.
SSC1040F Community Services and Supports in Addictions and Mental Health
Access to mental health and addictions services can be challenging due to the complexity of the system of service, funding sources, and issues relating to stigma and barriers. In this course, students learn about the current issues, trends and developments in the integration of services in order to promote coordinated, efficient access to services while focusing on early intervention, treatment and community supports. Students explore a range of services for children, youth, adults, older adults, and individuals with special needs. Workplace issues and supports are discussed.
SSC1050F Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of Health
Bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessment, interventions and the determinants of health are explored in this course. Students will examine Holistic interventions and current practices such as mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, selfcare and continuing care. Interdisciplinary practice and interprofessional collaboration is emphasized. Students will also explore the role of the family in holistic intervention.
SSC1060F Counselling Gender and Diversity
Students enhance their capacity in working with members of non-dominant populations. Students facilitate development of self-awareness, theoretical knowledge, and skill acquisition. Assignments entail a strong component of personal reflection and self assessment. Students develop knowledge and skills necessary to inform work with multicultural and diverse individuals and groups identified by age, ability, gender, sexual orientation, race and ethnicity, and socioeconomic status. Students critically examine the concept of diversity, stigmatized social identities, and the impact on services and supports.
SSC1070F Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Addictions and Mental Health
In this course, students develop their knowledge of ethical guidelines and practice in addictions and mental health within an inter-professional context. Students reflect on their individual scope of practice and build on their understanding and practice of effective and professional teamwork. Inter-professional and ethical challenges and dilemmas are analyzed in case scenarios, and ethical approaches are discussed. Students review certification options after graduation and develop personal plans and professional portfolios.
SSC2010F Group Counselling for Addictions and Mental Health Practitioners
Students develop knowledge and skills in facilitating counselling groups with individuals who are experiencing issues related to addictions and mental health. Students examine group theory, group dynamics, and group processes and apply their knowledge to group facilitation. Practical application is emphasized and each student is given the opportunity to experience leading, facilitating and participating in simulated groups.
SSC2020F Motivational Interviewing and Change Theory Practice
Motivational Interviewing (MI) is a client-oriented, collaborative, evidence-informed approach to counselling which is focused on exploring and resolving ambivalence and enhancing motivation to change. Students study the application of MI in addictions and mental health. Practical skills, concepts and essential strategies of MI are integrated into clinical practice in order to promote behaviour change and maintenance of gains. Through case studies, demonstrations, and experiential learning, students develop their MI skills.
SSC2030F Working with Youth and Families
Youth are a highly diverse group and vary in age, development, culture, religion, sexual orientation, skills, capacities, interests, and strengths. Students examine youth in a system of relationships such as family, peers, their community, and others and the ways the members of this system can have a significant impact on substance use, as well as other addictions and mental health. Students are introduced to current issues in addiction and mental health in youth, risk factors and other considerations for assessment, treatment counselling, relapse prevention, maintenance, and other supports including harm reduction and skill building strategies.
SSC2040F Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural Addictions
Students critically review disorders characterized by diminished control over behaviour such as gambling, internet use, and gaming. These disorders have historically been conceptualized as impulse control disorders and/or non-substance or behavioural addictions. An overview of disordered eating and sexual addiction is also covered. Students study the classification of DSM.
SSC2050F Introduction to Trauma-Informed Practice
Students explore trauma-informed practices at the individual, organizational and systemic levels. Students develop an understanding of the diverse needs of trauma survivors and how women, men, children and youth experience trauma differently. The effect of trauma on the brain is studied and the way service may be adapted is discussed. An overview of services for people with trauma, substance use, and mental health including parenting, child welfare, and supports for children are examined.
SSC2060F Community Capacity Building
Building the capacity in individuals, families and the community in early identification and intervention in addictions and mental health, is essential in providing integrated service and supports. Students examine theory and practice of knowledge exchange (KE) and capacity building including current research, networks, and effective and efficient processes to bring theory to practice. Students design and develop a product that may be used in education and capacity building.
SSC2070 Field Placement Preparation Course
Students learn what they need to do in order to complete their field placement experience in the final term by examining both practical and necessary skills and activities. Students engage in building professional writing skills, self reflection, and explore their career goals.
FLD0020 Field Placement and Special Topics Seminar
Students explore skillsets such as professional writing, community referrals, evaluate and explore both community resources and personal perspectives from people in recovery. Students receive support from a Field Placement Liaison through individual coaching sessions while completing on-site placement.
Pre-requisites: SSC1010 All theory courses successfully completed. AND SSC1020 AND SSC1030 AND SSC1040 AND SSC1050 AND SSC1060 AND SSC1070 AND SSC2010 AND SSC2020 AND SSC2030 AND SSC2040 AND SSC2050 AND SSC2060 AND SSC2070
Careers & Pathways
Careers
Graduates may find employment opportunities in the addictions and mental health field as community support workers, team leaders, case managers, clinicians, mental health counsellors, crisis workers, program evaluation coordinators, addictions counsellors, intake coordinators, and mental health workers.
Pathways
Please use our Pathways tool to search for pathway options.
Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Use a bio-psycho-social-spiritual framework when providing addictions and mental health services.
- Provide holistic, client-centred, gender-based, culturally relevant assessments and interventions to individuals, groups, and families within social and cultural contexts across the lifespan.
- Integrate skills and knowledge from a range of frameworks and contexts in addictions, mental health, and concurrent disorders to provide non-biased services to women and those from diverse and varied populations.
- Educate individuals, families, groups, and the community regarding issues and approaches through knowledge translation, knowledge exchange, and the dissemination of relevant and current research and practice via formal and informal education.
- Access, utilize, and advocate for culturally informed community supports and services for individuals, families and the community.
- Actively participate in and contribute to, relevant networks, groups, and organizations promoting development, improvement, and advancement in the fields of addictions and mental health.
- Work collaboratively within inter-professional teams providing ethical, effective, timely, and coordinated holistic services.
- Practice ethical and responsible behaviour in all aspects of work.
- Use research results to design and implement client care and services with the participation and contribution of the client, their family, and the community.
- Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment, and environmental stewardship.
Tuition & Fees
2023/2024 Academic Year
Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.
Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar's Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.
Fees are subject to change.
Admissions Requirements
Program Eligibility
- Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma or Degree or equivalent in the human, health, or social sciences fields.
- Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
- IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 90, with the minimum in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 24; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 115, minimums of 115 in Literacy and 90 in Production.
Application Information
ADDICTIONS AND MENTAL HEALTH
Program Code 1829X09FAO
Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:
ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228
Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.
International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the International Student Application Form at: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/ or by contacting the Registrar's Office.
For further information on the admissions process, contact:
Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro
Additional Information
Program Resources
Health Requirements and Documentation:
The physical and emotional health of each applicant to the program must be such that he or she can successfully cope with the program of instruction including the demands of field placement (e.g. stress and time management). Individuals who have concerns about their ability to meet these requirements should contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com prior to submitting an application.
Students accepted into the Addictions and Mental Health program must meet the following health requirements:
Students accepted into the Addictions and Mental Health program must meet the following health requirements:
- Provide evidence of full and complete immunizations. The Algonquin College Health Services will review the student`s record of immunization and provide authorization for entry into field placement. Some field placement agencies may require the Hepatitis B vaccine and the Influenza vaccine.
Police Records Check Documentation:
Though not an admission requirement, applicants must note important information listed below regarding Police Record Check program requirements.
Field Placement Eligibility:
To be eligible for placement, you must submit proof of a PRCSVS, which will be retained on your departmental file and used only for purposes related to your placement. You will be required to disclose the contents of the PRCSVS, including all notations, to the placement agencies.
It is your responsibility to obtain the PRCSVS from your local Police department prior to the deadline identified by your department and to pay any associated costs. It may take a long time to obtain this documentation; please submit your application as early as possible. Should you require further information, contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com.
Contact
For additional information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.