The demand for counsellors with training in mental health and addictions has increased. The two-year Mental Health and Addiction Worker program is designed to help you find meaningful employment in the diverse field of counselling. This program will train you with the proper knowledge, skills and attitude required to be an effective counsellor in a variety of mental health and addiction services.

Students are trained to work in mental health and addiction-specific settings and the broad spectrum of social or health service agencies where mental health and addictions-related issues are likely arise.

The program has a strong partnership with the Nipissing Detoxification and Substance Abuse Programs sponsored by the North Bay General Hospital and the North East Mental Health Centre, as well as collaborative linkages to numerous mental health and addictions agencies throughout the province.

It is strongly recommended that students with a personal history of recovery entering this program have at least two years’ sobriety.

Ontario Secondary School Diploma at or above the general level or its equivalent Grade 12 English or equivalent is required.

Mature Students:
Applicants aged 19 or over without the OSSD will be considered on the basis of their results on the College’s Mature Student Test.

Graduates of the new Ontario Secondary School Curriculum:
Ontario Secondary School Diploma with courses from the College (C), University (U), University/College (M), or Open (O) preparation levels.

Required courses:
Grade 12 Compulsory English (ENG 4C or ENG 4U).

A completed Canadore College Health Centre form including medical history, immunization record, Hepatitis B vaccination, and a two-step Tuberculosis (TB) test is required. Please see the online student registration handbook for more information.

If you have been convicted of an offence under the Criminal Code for which you have not been pardoned, you may be ineligible for field/clinical placements. A current police check may be required and can be obtained from the police department upon payment of a fee; all associated costs will be the responsibility of the student.

Students may require a Standard First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) certificate to be eligible for some field placements. All associated costs are the responsibility of the student.