How to Choose the Right Addictions & Community Health Professional Program

If you are passionate about making a difference in your community, becoming an Addictions & Community Health Professional might be the career path for you!  

Working In The Field 

Addictions & Community Health Professionals enjoy fulfilling careers in a variety of community health settings. As a professional in this field, you may have the opportunity to support youth or adults in their recovery from addictions. You might also find yourself working as a Community Service Worker in programs that support the homeless sector or those suffering from the effects of trauma, domestic violence, or substance abuse. The opportunities to support vulnerable populations in your community are plentiful.  

With the knowledge and skills gained as an Addictions & Community Health Professional you can facilitate healing and recovery through treatment and prevention programs designed for populations struggling with addictions and mental health.  

What Is Required For Success? 

Successful Addictions & Community Health Professionals are emotionally mature, with effective communication skills and a belief that change is truly possible. This passion for transforming lives is best used in partnership with a college diploma in the field of addictions and community health. A diploma will set you up with the knowledge and training required to achieve the change you want to see.  

What Should You Look For In A Program? 

If you have been considering a career in addictions and community health, you will want to enroll in a program that will best prepare you for a successful career in this challenging yet rewarding field. 

There are certain criteria your program and college should meet. We have broken down some of the most important in order to make your decision process easier. 

Accreditation  

Remember, not all mental health and addictions courses are made the same. In order to work successfully in the field of addiction and community health, completion of an accredited program is recommended. If the program you choose to take has not been accredited by an external accrediting agency, your career opportunities may be limited. 

Curriculum & Career Preparation   

Your program of choice should prepare you to enter the workforce with a comprehensive understanding of mental health, addiction, and recovery. This program will include a practicum in addition to classroom learning.  

Practicums are designed to equip you with work experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs, your resume already includes real-life experience. In a field as demanding as addictions and mental health, it is important that your program takes a holistic approach to training and education. 

Campus Life & Culture   

If you value good mental health and are considering becoming a professional in the field of mental health and addiction support, then it will be important to you to attend a college that promotes a healthy and supportive atmosphere. Going to college is an exciting step toward a brighter future, and like anything worth doing, it comes with its own challenges. For students, maintaining good mental health is vital for success. So, make sure you choose a college that encourages a supportive and collaborative culture.  

Scholarships & Financial Aid   

Do you feel as though money is holding you back from achieving your dream of making a difference in your local community? Instead of letting this worry prevent you from achieving your dreams, look for a college that offers financial solutions in the form of scholarships or assistance with student aid applications.  

Get Started At Sundance!    

At Sundance College, we are dedicated to our students’ success. We work together towards one common goal – supporting our students on their journey to a new career and a brighter future.  

Our Addictions & Community Health Professional Diploma program is approved by the Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF). The CACCF is Internationally recognized as the gold standard provider in addiction credentialing both in Canada and internationally. 

Sundance’s industry-experienced instructors guide and support you as you complete the classroom portion of the Addictions & Community Health Professional program, which includes classes such as Addictions Fundamentals, Psychology of Addiction, and Relapse Prevention & Intervention. Once finished, our students begin their practical work experience in a community mental health centre, social service or outreach agency, corrections facility, or another human services agency.  

To find out more about Sundance College’s Addictions & Community Health Diploma program click here.