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Mental Health and Addictions Worker

Person holding a clipboard talking with a woman during a counselling session.

Build the skills to support individuals, families, and communities impacted by mental health and addictions. This two-year diploma combines evidence-based learning with field placement, preparing you for meaningful roles in healthcare and social services.

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Home / Learn / Programs List / Mental Health and Addictions Worker
Credential
Ontario College Diploma
Duration
Four semesters
Start Date(s)
September (Fall)
Locations
Belleville
Open to
International Students
Domestic Students
CIP Code
51.1501

Find your career

This program equips you with evidence-informed practices to support individuals, families, and communities. Learn to think critically, support advocacy, apply harm reduction strategies, and use culturally aware, anti-oppressive, and trauma-informed approaches, including Indigenous perspectives. Graduates are prepared for meaningful roles in community agencies, residential care, group homes, and other settings, focusing on prevention, intervention, treatment, and recovery.

Graduates will prepare for a variety of career opportunities, including:

  • Addiction support
  • Case management
  • Community mental health
  • Crisis intervention
  • Homelessness prevention
  • Indigenous outreach
  • Rehabilitation support
  • Youth and family services
  • Veterans’ services
  • Residential treatment services
  • Drop-in centres
  • Hospitals
  • Correctional facilities
  • Withdrawal management services
  • Shelters
  • Street outreach worker

How you'll learn

Experiential Learning

Prepare to effectively support and empower people to make positive changes through highly relevant courses where students will learn by doing:

  • A combination of in-class learning and practical experience, including simulation, case studies, applied learning, skills practice, role play, and field placement.
  • Incorporate theory and practice with extensive group work.
  • Develop essential skills in human relations, interpersonal communication, needs assessment and critical thinking.

Courses

COMM1048 College Writing Skills

This course focuses on writing and research skills required for successful completion of college-level studies. The course will promote development and improvement of research and writing skills that can be applied to students’ chosen programs of study.

PSYC1015 Development Across the Lifespan

This course is designed for the learner to examine human development across the lifespan, including the impact of genetics and environment on developmental outcomes from conception to death. The learner will be able to identify biological, cognitive, and psychosocial variables that impact the capacity for resilience and growth of individuals, families, and communities. The learner will identify and evaluate strategies to meet the diverse needs and experiences of individuals, groups, families, and communities in adherence to social service worker standards of practice.

AMHW1016 Integrated Approaches to Addiction and Mental Health Work

In this course, students will focus on the importance of using a person-centered, comprehensive approach to mental health and addiction. Learners will explore various theoretical perspectives, including biopsychosocial models, and the complexities of concurrent and comorbid disorders. The course also covers intervention strategies tailored to address the often multiple and intersecting needs of diverse and vulnerable populations, including crisis management and supporting referrals to other professional services, as required.

AMHW1017 Professional Practice 1

This course prepares students to build a competency portfolio that highlights their skills, values, and knowledge in alignment with industry and regulatory standards. Students will develop professional practice strategies, focusing on self-care and employment readiness, in preparation for field placement. Through self-assessment, students will evaluate their field readiness, set professional development goals, and explore potential placement opportunities.

PSYC1005 The Mental Health Continuum

Students examine the causes of abnormal behavior, psychological factors and physical illness as well as major psychological disorders. This course is not intended to help students solve behavioural or emotional problems requiring professional assessment and response. Prerequisite: PSYC 1015

AMHW1018 Trauma-Informed Practice

In this course, students explore the impact of trauma on individuals, examining various traumatic experiences such as abuse, intergenerational trauma, residential schools, disasters, and war. Learners will study developmental, relational, social, and cultural aspects of trauma and analyze its outcomes. The course covers theories on how trauma affects brain development, learning, relationships, and behaviour. Students will also reflect on their own experiences, including vicarious trauma, compassion fatigue, and burnout, in the context of working in addiction and mental health. Through understanding the impact of trauma, students will research and identify approaches to working with individuals successfully, respecting their wellness, history, and privacy.

GNED1100 Becoming a Global Changemaker

This Loyalist College graduate attributes course will help shape your perspectives, broaden your understanding of important issues affecting our societies today, and equip you with invaluable knowledge and skills that will inform your ability to influence your community in a meaningful and impactful way. By exploring topics such as cultural competency, Indigenous education, entrepreneurship, sustainability, health and wellness, and ecological literacy, you'll be equipped with a powerful toolkit that extends far beyond the classroom.

SSWP1002 Delivering Human Services

Students will learn to broker and advocate for appropriate access to resources to assist individuals, families, groups and communities through the creation of professional networks, while identifying current social policy, relevant legislation and political, social and/or economic systems and acknowledging their impacts on service delivery.

AMHW1020 Ethics, Social Policy, and Legislation in Addiction and Mental Health

In this course, students explore the professional ethics and code of conduct specific to the mental health and addiction field. They will examine the legislative requirements for working with clients and how these relate to ethical standards. Learners will interpret current social policies related to mental health and addiction, analyze their functions, and recognize trends, issues, and concerns impacting individuals, families, and communities. The course also emphasizes identifying gaps in legislation and policy, and the role of self-determination and social activism in addressing these gaps.

AMHW1023 Group Development, Implementation, and Facilitation

In this course, students analyze communication behaviours within group settings and explore both theoretical and practical techniques of group work. Learners will examine the fundamentals of group processes, including roles and responsibilities, and will develop intervention plans for structured and unstructured groups. This course emphasizes applying these theories through the creation and facilitation of a group process focused on addressing mental health or addiction concerns.

AMHW1022 Interviewing and Counselling Interventions 1

In this course, students examine the importance of the therapeutic alliance in fostering effective interactions with clients during interviews and counselling sessions. Learners explore how counselling practices can promote self-determination and employ person-centred, strengths-based approaches with individuals and families. Students will demonstrate foundational skills essential to building healthy professional relationships and will engage in self-reflection to better understand their own values and beliefs in working with clients. Prerequisite: AMHW 1017

AMHW1024 Mental Health and Addiction Assessment and Intervention

In this course, students will learn how to assess and intervene in cases where clients present with co-occurring mental health and addiction concerns. Students will be introduced to the science of pharmacology. Emphasizing acute symptoms such as psychosis related to substance use, students will learn to conduct comprehensive assessments, including risk evaluations for home visits and environmental safety. The course covers evidence-based strategies for effective communication with clients experiencing psychosis and prepares students to work collaboratively with interprofessional teams to ensure safe and ethical interventions. Prerequisite: PSYC 1005 Co-requisite: AMHW 1022

AMHW1021 Power, Privilege, and Oppression

This course provides a foundation for understanding social, economic, cultural, spiritual, racial, and political issues within the context of social justice and diversity. Students will explore theories and practical applications that affirm the value and dignity of individuals, families, groups, and communities. Emphasis is placed on enhancing cultural safety in service delivery. Through critical analysis, students will examine various forms of oppression, discrimination, power, and privilege, and learn to apply anti-oppressive practices in the field of human services.

AMHW1019 Screening, Assessment, and Case Management

In this course, students learn the role and responsibilities of an addictions and mental health worker within a case management framework. They will follow a client from intake to discharge, practicing professional report writing as a critical component of effective client care. Students will also develop person-centered, strengths-based intervention plans to address individual needs, while exploring the legal and ethical requirements of case management.

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

AMHW2003 Building Capacity in Communities

In this course, students will apply culturally appropriate practices to work effectively with Indigenous and other communities. They will learn to identify community resources and needs and develop collaborative solutions to address community challenges through collective action. Emphasizing an Indigenous wellness approach, students will engage in community development activities focused on mental health and addiction concerns, involving individuals, families, and the broader community. The course prioritizes inclusion, equality, equity, and active participation in decision-making processes. Prerequisite: AMHW 1021

AMHW2005 Crisis Intervention and Safety Planning

This course focuses on managing clients in crisis situations, with a special emphasis on those experiencing drug-induced psychosis. Students will develop practical skills in crisis intervention, including recognizing and understanding the symptoms of psychosis, applying de-escalation techniques, and planning interventions that ensure the safety of both clients and practitioners. Key topics include preparing for safe home visits, implementing safety protocols during fieldwork, and coordinating with emergency services in high-risk scenarios. Prerequisite: AMHW 1018, AMHW 1022

AMHW2006 Interviewing and Counselling Interventions 2

In this course, students will learn to identify the purpose, principles, and methods of effective counselling, and practice critical techniques from various theoretical perspectives. Emphasis is placed on developing therapeutic approaches and building a strong therapeutic alliance. Students will also learn and apply motivational interviewing techniques to enhance client engagement and facilitate positive behavioural change. Prerequisite: AMHW 1022

AMHW2004 Prevention and Health Promotion

In this course, students will apply culturally appropriate practices to work effectively with Indigenous and other communities. They will learn to identify community resources and needs and develop collaborative solutions to address community challenges through collective action. Emphasizing an Indigenous wellness approach, students will engage in community development activities focused on mental health and addiction concerns, involving individuals, families, and the broader community. The course prioritizes inclusion, equality, equity, and active participation in decision-making processes.

AMHW2001 Professional Practice 2

In this course, students will apply the skills, values, and knowledge developed in their competency portfolio to real-world scenarios. Building on their previous work and learning, students will engage in learning opportunities to refine their professional practice strategies. This course emphasizes the implementation of self-care practices and the development of resilience in the workplace. Students will further evaluate their field readiness by participating in mock interviews, case studies, and role-playing exercises. They will also finalize their professional development goals and prepare to transition into their field placement, ensuring they are equipped to meet industry and regulatory standards Prerequisite: AMHW 1017

AMHW2002 Reflective Practice 1

In this course, learners will engage in ongoing self and collective reflective practice, a crucial skill for both personal and professional development, as well as for the well-being of the community members they support. By regularly stepping back and reflecting, students will have the opportunity to critically assess their own practices, challenge existing perspectives, and address any biases or areas for growth. This process aims to enhance student effectiveness in supporting diverse communities and contribute to the overall professional growth and well-being of the student.

AMHW2000 Understanding Concurrent Disorders

This course equips students with the knowledge and skills to work effectively with individuals experiencing co-occurring substance use and mental health issues. Students will use evidence-informed resources, including the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, to deepen their understanding of concurrent disorders. In a collaborative setting, students will develop treatment plans based on comprehensive screening and assessment, ensuring that interventions are tailored to individual needs, strengths, and goals. The course also includes research into best practices for treating concurrent disorders, and a critical evaluation of the continuum of care for these conditions. Prerequisite: PSYC 1005

GNED General Education Elective

General Education Courses

AMHW2007 Field Placement

During placement, students will apply their classroom knowledge and skills in a real-world setting through a supervised field placement. This hands-on experience allows students to work directly with individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction and mental health. Students will be placed in various community organizations, healthcare facilities, or social service agencies where they will engage in practical work, including client support, case management, and intervention planning. Through placement, students will receive guidance from experienced professionals and will be expected to demonstrate competency in applying theoretical concepts, ethical practice, and evidence-based strategies. Emphasis will be placed on reflective practice, professional development, and integration of feedback to enhance students’ readiness for a career in the addiction and mental health field. Prerequisite: AMHW 2000, AMHW 2001, AMHW 2003, AMHW 2004, AMHW 2005, AMHW 2006 Co-requisite: AMHW 2008

AMHW2008 Reflective Practice 2

Building on previous reflective practice, this course focuses on advancing students’ self-awareness and professional growth through deeper engagement in reflective and critical thinking processes. Students will further explore advanced techniques for self-assessment and collective reflection, incorporating feedback from peers and mentors to refine their practice. This course emphasizes the development of advanced strategies for addressing complex cases and navigating challenges in the field. Co-requisite: AMHW 2007

*Courses subject to change.

Advisor listening to a student during a one-on-one counselling session.

Admission Requirements

Required academic preparation 

  • OSSD/OSSGD or equivalent with courses at the general, advanced, (C), (U) or (M) level, AND
  • Grade 12 English (C) level or equivalent

OR

Academic upgrading

Are you missing admission requirements? Discover how Career and College Prep at Loyalist can help you get started on your journey.

 

Additional requirements

*Additional materials, trainings and certifications may be required depending on industry partner requirements connected to experiential learning. Pre-placement requirements are subject to change based on placement agency and/or legislative or regulatory changes.

Costs

Approximate costs (2025 – 26, two semesters at full-time student status)*

  • Domestic Tuition: $2,722.08  
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees: $1,595.26 
  • Total: $4,317.34

Additional student-purchased costs may include textbooks, supplies, software, and other resources. Additional expenses related to off-campus experiential learning activities may also be incurred. 

  

*All fees are subject to change. Fees for programs shorter or longer than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. In addition to the costs listed above, some programs also have program ancillary fees based on their specific requirements. For a detailed breakdown of tuition and ancillary fees – including any program-specific charges – please visit the Tuition and fee schedule 2025–26. 

  

Paying for college

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Approximate costs (2025 – 26, two semesters at full-time student status)*

  • International Tuition: $15,900
  • Full-Time Ancillary Fees: $1,595.26
  • Mandatory Health Insurance: $659
  • Total: $17,254.26

Additional student-purchased costs may include textbooks, supplies, software, and other resources. Additional expenses related to off-campus experiential learning activities may also be incurred. 

  

*All fees are subject to change. Fees for programs shorter or longer than two semesters will be adjusted accordingly. In addition to the costs listed above, some programs also have program ancillary fees based on their specific requirements. For a detailed breakdown of tuition and ancillary fees – including any program-specific charges – please visit the Tuition and fee schedule 2025–26. 

  

Paying for college

At Loyalist College, we believe that cost should never be a barrier to your success. We’re here to help you navigate the costs of college and connect you with a variety of financial aid programs, resources and donor-supported awards. Explore paying for college.

Further studies

Pathways and university transfer

What’s next? Build on the knowledge and skills you learned at Loyalist by continuing your academic journey. Return to Loyalist to complete a second post-graduate program in as little as a year, or receive credit recognition for your Loyalist studies when pursuing a degree at a university. Explore pathway opportunities.   

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