COURSE CURRICULUM

The Addictions and Mental Health Counselling program at the University of Lethbridge includes a range of specialized courses designed to prepare students for professional roles in addiction treatment and mental health support. Key courses such as ADCS 3150 – Adult Psychopathology focus on understanding mental health disorders in adults, including their symptoms, causes, and treatment approaches. ADCS 3420 – Ethics in Addictions Counselling emphasizes professional ethical standards, confidentiality, and responsible decision-making in counselling practice. ADCS 3739 – Addictions in Particular Populations explores how addiction affects different groups of people, such as youth, Indigenous communities, or other vulnerable populations, and examines tailored intervention strategies. ADCS 4200 – Community Development and Outreach focuses on building community-based programs, prevention strategies, and outreach methods to support individuals and families affected by addiction. Together, these courses provide a balanced mix of theory, ethics, counselling skills, and community engagement. Students learn how to assess client needs, apply evidence-based interventions, and work effectively within healthcare and social service systems. The curriculum is designed to develop strong communication, empathy, and critical thinking skills, while also preparing students for real-world practice through applied learning and internship experiences. Overall, these courses help students build the professional knowledge and practical abilities required for careers in addictions counselling and mental health support services.