COURSE CURRICULUM

The Addictions and Mental Health Worker program is designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge required to support individuals facing addiction and mental health challenges. In Semester 1, students study the biological, psychological, and social factors contributing to mental health and addiction in “The Role of Biology in Addiction and Mental Health,” while developing core communication and helping skills in “Professional Practice Skills.” Courses like “Addressing Stigma,” “Working on Teams and in Groups,” and “Understanding Power, Privilege & Oppression” introduce students to anti-oppressive practices and the importance of self-awareness. Semester 2 builds on foundational knowledge with courses such as “Clinical Practice Skills,” “Integrated Approaches to Addiction and Mental Health Work,” and “Social Policy and Legislation,” emphasizing holistic care and system navigation. Students also examine working with Indigenous communities and conduct community-based health assessments. In Semester 3, students participate in immersive, interactive learning in “Interviewing and Counselling Skills” and begin career preparation with “Preparation for Placement” and the “Capstone” project, which integrates theory and practice across diverse populations. The semester also includes courses on trauma-informed care, interpersonal violence, and human development. In Semester 4, students complete a 580-hour fieldwork placement at agencies such as crisis centers, shelters, and recovery homes, while attending four seminar days through “Fieldwork Seminar” to reflect on professional practice. This placement allows students to apply their skills in real-world settings under supervision, preparing them for careers as addiction and mental health support workers. Throughout the program, students engage in simulations, labs, and community-based projects, gaining hands-on experience while developing a deep understanding of ethical standards and trauma-informed, culturally safe, and anti-oppressive approaches. Graduates are eligible to register with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), having met the requirements for Social Service Worker equivalency, and are well-prepared for impactful roles in the mental health and addictions field.