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?
Winter 2025
No
Spring 2025
No
Fall 2025
No
Schedule
Program Summary
Credential
Program Code
Area of Interest
Other Campuses
Other Delivery Options
Work Integrated Learning
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 that this program meets the education requirement component of their certification process....(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 that this program meets the education requirement component of their certification process.
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.
- Possesses 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 | Winter | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Level: 01 | ||||||
| SSC1010 | 42.0 | Mental Health and Addiction FoundationsSSC1010 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. | | |||
| SSC1020 | 42.0 | Introduction to CounsellingSSC1020 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 using 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. | | |||
| SSC1030 | 45.0 | Chemical Dependency and Substance Use and AbuseSSC1030 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 one's behaviour. An introduction to the science of Pharmacology is included and students will study a few drugs such as: alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs, hallucinogens, cocaine, narcotics, 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. | | |||
| SSC1040 | 42.0 | Community Services and Supports in Addictions and Mental HealthSSC1040 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. | | |||
| SSC1050 | 45.0 | Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of HealthSSC1050 Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of HealthBio-psycho-social-spiritual assessments and interventions and the determinants of health are explored in this course. Holistic interventions and current practices are included such as mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and alternative therapeutic approaches. Interdisciplinary practice and inter-professional collaboration is emphasized. Students also explore the notion of family and community in the role of holistic intervention. This course is part of a complete program of study, individual course registration is not available. | | |||
| SSC1060 | 42.0 | Counselling Gender and DiversitySSC1060 Counselling Gender and DiversityStudents will enhance their capacity in working with members of non-dominant populations. Students will facilitate development of self-awareness, theoretical knowledge, and skill acquisition. Assignments will entail a strong component of personal reflection and self assessment. Students will 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, etc. Students will 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. | | |||
| SSC1070 | 42.0 | Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Mental Health and AddictionsSSC1070 Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Mental Health and AddictionsIn 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 | ||||||
| SSC2010 | 42.0 | Group Counselling for Addictions and Mental Health PractitionersSSC2010 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. | | |||
| SSC2020 | 42.0 | Motivational Interviewing and Change Theory PracticeSSC2020 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 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. | | |||
| SSC2030 | 45.0 | Working with Youth and FamiliesSSC2030 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. | | |||
| SSC2040 | 45.0 | Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural AddictionSSC2040 Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural AddictionStudents 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. | | |||
| SSC2050 | 45.0 | An Introduction to Trauma-Informed PracticeSSC2050 An 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. | | |||
| SSC2060 | 42.0 | Community Capacity BuildingSSC2060 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. Pre-requisites: SSC1010 (1) and SSC1020 and SSC1030 and SSC1040 and SSC1050 and SSC1060 and SSC1070 and SSC2010 and SSC2020 and SSC2030 and SSC2040 and SSC2050 and SSC2060 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 (1) 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
SSC1010 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.
SSC1020 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 using lecture, discussion, experiential exercises and presentation of audio and visual resources.
SSC1030 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 one's behaviour. An introduction to the science of Pharmacology is included and students will study a few drugs such as: alcohol, nicotine, prescription drugs, hallucinogens, cocaine, narcotics, marijuana, inhalants, and steroids. They will also examine concepts of clinical practice and program design and learn how and when to apply them.
SSC1040 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.
SSC1050 Holistic Assessment and Interventions: Determinants of Health
Bio-psycho-social-spiritual assessments and interventions and the determinants of health are explored in this course. Holistic interventions and current practices are included such as mindfulness, nutrition, exercise, and alternative therapeutic approaches. Interdisciplinary practice and inter-professional collaboration is emphasized. Students also explore the notion of family and community in the role of holistic intervention.
SSC1060 Counselling Gender and Diversity
Students will enhance their capacity in working with members of non-dominant populations. Students will facilitate development of self-awareness, theoretical knowledge, and skill acquisition. Assignments will entail a strong component of personal reflection and self assessment. Students will 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, etc. Students will critically examine the concept of diversity, stigmatized social identities, and the impact on services and supports.
SSC1070 Ethical Practice and Professionalism in Mental Health and Addictions
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.
SSC2010 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.
SSC2020 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 to promote behaviour change and maintenance of gains. Through case studies, demonstrations, and experiential learning, students develop their MI skills.
SSC2030 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.
SSC2040 Impulse Control Disorders and Behavioural Addiction
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.
SSC2050 An 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.
SSC2060 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.
Pre-requisites: SSC1010 (1) and SSC1020 and SSC1030 and SSC1040 and SSC1050 and SSC1060 and SSC1070 and SSC2010 and SSC2020 and SSC2030 and SSC2040 and SSC2050 and SSC2060
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 (1) 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
- 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
2024/2025 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 88, with a minimum in each component: Reading 22; Listening 22; Speaking 22; Writing 22; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 120, minimum of 120 in Literacy and no score below 105.
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
Applications are available online at www.ontariocolleges.ca.
Applications for Fall Term and Winter 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.
PLACEMENT REQUIREMENTS:
Placement is a very important component of the AMH program consisting of 300 hours of unpaid experience in the field and all students must complete this requirement to graduate. The goal of placement is for students to use practical learning experiences to support the integration of theory and professional expectations in the addictions and mental health field. Students practice supportive counseling, group facilitation, case management and crisis intervention. Students also reflect on their emerging knowledge and skills for working directly with children, youth, and families.
Students indicate the placement location/city of their choice and placements may be completed in a variety of community mental health and addictions services settings, dependent on prior experience and credentials. These settings may include social service and government agencies, mental health agencies, residential treatment centres, group homes, homeless shelters, services for women, services for indigenous people, crisis response services, correctional facilities, hospitals, long-term care facilities, hospices and other establishments.
Prior to placement, in Level 02, students will take the Field Placement Preparation Course, SSC2070, which will assist in preparing them for their field placement.
In order to be eligible for field placements, students must meet the following requirements prior to the placement deadline (typically completed in Level 02):
- Academic Clearance: students must successfully complete all theory courses (all Level 01 and 02 courses) prior to the placement start date. This will be confirmed by the academic area after the placement deadline.
- AMH Placement Request Form: this form must be submitted prior to the placement deadline to ensure students are added to the master placement list. While this form is completed entirely online in just a few minutes, you must be prepared to upload a current version of your resume in order to complete the submission process.
- Medical and Non-medical Requirements: the AMH program requires students to meet the following medical and non-medical requirements: a. Immunization Records; b. Police Records Check for Service with the Vulnerable Sector (PRCSVS).
For further placement information, please refer to our website at the following link: https://www.algonquincollege.com/online/field-placement-amh/.
Contact
For additional information, please contact AC Online at online@algonquincollege.com or 613-727-4723 ext. 3330.