Aboriginal Addictions Services Counselling Certificate

This 8-month full-time certificate program combines theory and practicum components, enabling graduates to support aboriginal individuals, families and communities in identifying and managing addictions through prevention and treatment programs. Graduates are provided with multilevel intervention skills necessary to support dysfunctional behaviours throughout the range of substance abuse.

Addiction Counsellors often work in social services facilities, justice system institutions, child and family services, emergency shelters, and community programs.

The program is unique in Canada and focuses on the needs of Aboriginal communities. Program content emphasizes Aboriginal history and culture, cross-cultural and therapeutic communications, human health and wellness, and addictions studies.

Program delivery will be classroom-based with a focus on group discussions and learner participation. The program includes 3 community practicums. Courses are generally scheduled between 8 am and 4 pm from Monday to Friday.

Courses in Program

• Aboriginal History, Identity and Culture
• Cross-Cultural Communication and Interpersonal Relationships
• Therapeutic and Professional Communication
• Fundamentals of Written Communication
• Human Growth and Development across the Lifespan
• Introduction to Addictions Studies
• Introduction to Counselling
• Practicum I
• Physiology and Processes of Addictions
• Counselling II
• Practicum II
• Professional Issues and Practice
• Follow-up Practicum