Student Experience

What to Expect

The small class size in this program will provide students with more time for hands-on experience and support from experienced professors that are active in the addictions and mental health field. Learning outcomes in this program are achieved through a blend of theoretical instruction, interactive discussions, case studies, demonstrations, experiential exercises, participation in and facilitation of simulated groups, exploration of clinical practice concepts, program design analysis, and a supervised placement.

The Addictions and Mental Health (AMH) graduate certificate is recognized by the Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF) and affirms that this program meets the education requirement component of their certification process.

The Ottawa-Sussex campus is a satellite location of our main Ottawa campus. The facility is located in downtown Ottawa at 700 Sussex Drive, 2nd Floor. The Algonquin College training facility at 700 Sussex is a beautiful, bright, and modern space. It features six classrooms, a kitchenette, and a large solarium overlooking the Byward Market. The space has several areas to study and collaborate with fellow students – all with beautiful views. Take a virtual tour of the centre

Showing a classroom environment at the Sussex location in downtown Ottawa

Taking your classes at our 700 Sussex location has many perks. You will be on the LRT line, only steps from the Rideau station. You can easily walk or take public transit to many downtown Ottawa attractions including Parliament, museums, art galleries, shops, restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife. There are additional housing options in the downtown core and more opportunities for part-time work nearby.

All students registered in the Addictions and Mental Health program at the Ottawa – Sussex location can take advantage of Algonquin College’s student services and supports. For a complete list of student support services such as counselling, health services and others, please visit the Student Support Service website.

Students chatting in the hallway with coffee and laptop and students sitting at a table in the background at the downtown Sussex AC location in Ottawa

Any international student taking a program at our Ottawa – Sussex location will have full access to the International Education Centre’s resources and programming. These will be available either virtually or for in-person appointments at the Ottawa Campus (Woodroffe Ave).

Work Integrated Learning

In the final semester of the program students gain practical experience through a 300-hour supervised placement to apply their knowledge of best practices and further enhance their skillsets. During the placement, students are paired with a Field Placement Liaison for support and guidance. Students of the Addiction and Mental Health program will appreciate potentially being close to their placement locations for their practical training.