Addictions and Community Health Professional Diploma Program
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Get the training you need to create change in your community.
Credential
Diploma
Duration
44 weeks
Practicum
7 weeks
- Addictions Support Worker
- Addictions Treatment Worker
- Youth Support Worker
- Family Support Worker
- Family-School Liaison Worker
Student Aid Eligible
Our Addictions and Community Health Professional course is eligible for student aid funding; other options available.
Approved by the CACCF
Our program is recognized and approved by the Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation.
Laptop Program
We provide the tools you need to succeed in your program, including a new laptop you keep.
CPR and First Aid Certification
Certifications in CPR and First Aid prepare you to handle emergencies and provide immediate, lifesaving care with confidence and competence.
Find Out What Our Students
Say About Us
The Addictions and Community Health program led to full-time employment before my practicum ended. Highly recommended for those seeking jobs in the industry.
Christopher W.
Addictions and Community Health Professional
What to Expect From Our Addictions and Community Health Professional
As a skilled addictions and community health professional, you can have a rewarding career in a wide range of community health settings whether social service agencies working with children, youth families or and programs for populations dealing with alcoholism, drug abuse, family violence, and the aged.
Our Addictions and Community Health Professional program is approved by the Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCCF). It will provide you with the relevant knowledge on the psychology of addiction, relapse prevention and intervention, as well as a focus on family dynamics, interviewing and counseling.
The Addictions and Community Health Professional program combines theorical knowledge with real-life examples to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of addiction and recovery from addiction. Industry-experienced instructors guide and support you as you prepare for a career focused on helping others.
Program Overview: Addictions and Community Health Professional
Learn about Sundance College’s Addictions and Community Health Professional diploma program and how it prepares students for a career in addiction services, community health and social care.
The Sundance Difference
Supporting Student Success
Sundance College’s mission is to “support student success”. All members of our team are dedicated to helping students succeed throughout their educational journey.
One Course at a Time
Students focus on 1 course at a time, rather than splitting attention among multiple courses.
Concentrated immersion into one course increases knowledge retention and academic success rates.
Flexible Learning Environment
At Sundance College, we offer flexible learning options tailored to your lifestyle.
Choose from on-campus or online classes, and access recorded materials to learn at your own pace.
Whether you prefer a structured classroom environment or the convenience of studying from home, we provide the flexibility you need to succeed.
Hands-On Learning
We offer flexible learning options tailored to your lifestyle. Choose from on-campus or online classes, and access recorded materials to learn at your own pace.
Practicum Experience
Most programs include a practical work experience or practicum. Practicums provide very important benefits that set you apart from other job applicants:
Experience
You will have relevant work experience in your new career field before you graduate. This helps you break into or transition into your new career.
Resume Builder
A practicum helps build your resume with experience relevant to the career you want to pursue.
References
Your practicum supervisor becomes an important reference for you in moving your career forward.
Employment
You may obtain employment through your practicum employer. In our experience, up to 50% of our students have.
Career Services for Life
Students come to Sundance College to get jobs and to move their careers forward in new directions. A key component of supporting this transition for students is assisting them in applying for and preparing for job interviews.
Sundance College offers free career services to support students with:
- Developing resumes and employment marketing materials
- Job search planning, strategies and support
- Applying for jobs
- Role-playing experience so you are prepared to walk into job interviews
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the role of an addictions and community health professional?
Addictions and community health professionals provide counselling to support the emotional and mental health of vulnerable groups and populations.
How much does an addictions and community health professional make in Canada?
The salary of an addictions and community health professional in Canada will vary depending on factors such as location (province, city), experience, and employer. On average, they can earn between $46,051 and $63,500 a year.
What is the benefit of taking a college addictions and mental health program that is accredited by the Canadian Addictions Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF)?
The CACCF is the gold standard certification for addiction specific counsellors in Canada and internationally. It means that the college meets or exceeds the criteria and competencies required for its graduates to obtain both Canadian and international certifications.
Are an addictions worker and a community health worker the same?
While both roles involve providing care and support to individuals, there are some differences. While addiction support workers focus on addressing and treating substance use disorders and other addictions, community health or community service workers promote public outreach and health programs for the overall community.
Want to understand more about what addictions and community health workers do? Read our blog: “What Do Addictions and Community Health Professionals Do?”
How do I become an addictions and community health worker in Canada?
To become an addictions and community services worker in Canada, you will need to complete a training program at a recognized college. The program should include a combination of theory and practical courses.
How do I balance my studies with my work and family commitments?
Many of our students and graduates have balanced their studies with work and family commitments. You will study only one course at a time instead of 4 or more. This allows you to immerse yourself and increase your knowledge retention and academic success.
For more tips on finding the right work-life balance during your Addictions and Community Health Professional diploma program, read our blog ‘Achieve Work-Life Balance: Tips from College Graduates’.