Mental Health Addictions Community Service Worker
Approved under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005
Course Overview
The Mental Health Addictions Community Service Worker program is a comprehensive 704-hour diploma program designed to prepare students for rewarding careers supporting individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges. This 40-week program combines in-depth theoretical knowledge with practical skills training across 19 specialized subjects including mental health disorders, addictions counselling, crisis intervention, pharmacology, psychology and sociology. With small class sizes of up to 6 students, learners receive personalized attention while developing essential counselling, assessment, and therapeutic communication skills needed to make a meaningful difference in their communities.
Is this program right for you?
This program is ideal if you are passionate about helping others overcome life’s most challenging obstacles and want to build a meaningful career in mental health and addictions support. You should consider this course if you have strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to remain calm in crisis situations. Whether you’re starting a new career, looking to formalize your experience in social services, or seeking to expand your skills in mental health and addictions work, this program provides the comprehensive training and recognized certifications needed to enter this growing field. If you are ready to make a positive impact in people’s lives during their most vulnerable moments, this program will equip you with the knowledge, skills and credentials to succeed.
What You'll learn
In this program, you will gain comprehensive knowledge of mental health disorders, addiction treatment approaches, and evidence-based counselling techniques to effectively support clients in crisis and recovery. You’ll develop practical skills in client assessment, intervention strategies, suicide prevention, and nonviolent crisis management while learning to create individualized treatment plans and facilitate therapeutic group sessions. The curriculum also covers essential professional competencies including pharmacology for mental health medications, legal and ethical practices in social services, interpersonal communication, and the technology skills needed for case documentation and client management in modern healthcare settings.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Mental Health Addictions Community Service Worker program are prepared to work as Community Service Workers in diverse mental health and social service settings across Ontario, with strong demand and opportunities for career advancement.
Potential Job Titles
- Community Service Worker
- Mental Health Support Worker
- Addictions Support Worker
- Residential Home Support Worker
- Group Home Counselor
- Crisis Intervention Worker
- Client Advocate
- Outreach Worker
- Youth Support Worker
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Case Management Assistance
- Peer Support Specialist
- Recovery Support Specialist
- Social Service Assistant
Admission Requirements
To be admitted into the Education Assistant program, you must meet ONE of the following requirements:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (Grade 12) or equivalent.
- Be 18 years of age or older on or before the program begins AND pass the Wonderlic Scholastic Level Exam with a minimum score of 13 (The exam can be administered at one of our campus locations.
Included Certifications
CPR & First Aid,
Level C
Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST)
Nonviolent Crisis Intervention (NVCI)
Program Details
Program Type:
Certificate Course
Program Duration:
42 Weeks (40 weeks instruction + 2 weeks breaks)
Total Instruction Hours:
704 Hours
Delivery Format:
Hybrid – A mix of In-person and Online
Language of Instruction:
English
Why Choose Crossroads?
- Flexible online learning
- Comprehensive curriculum
- Small classes with personalized support
- Experienced instructors
- Fast-track to employment
- Accessible admission
CONTACT US FOR MORE INFO
Frequently asked questions
No, this program does not include an off-site practicum. However, you will gain hands-on practical experience through crisis intervention training, role-playing scenarios, and certification programs during your studies.
The Mental Health Addictions Community Service Worker program is a mix of online instructor-led theory training as well as a week of in-person, hands-on practical training at our Campus location in Ottawa, Ontario.
Students must maintain a 70% average for each subject to pass. Each subject requires a minimum final mark of 70% to successfully complete the program.
Each student must maintain a 70% average in each subject. If you fail a subject, you must repeat it at an additional charge of $500. You may need to wait until the subject is offered again on the schedule..
You will need a desktop computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection, webcam and microphone. The program uses Microsoft Office applications (Word, Outlook) and Windows 10.
We offer multiple start dates throughout the year. Contact our admissions team at (613) 742-7499 extension 206 to learn about upcoming classes and to secure your spot. Classes fill quickly, so we strongly recommend applying early!
Yes! The career prep course (20 hours) includes resume and cover letting writing, interview preparation, networking techniques, and job search strategies. Our Career Services team works with local employers and can provide job search support.
Funding and financial assistance may be available for those individuals who qualify. Please click here to see the detailed information on financial aid.
All in-person classes are held at Crossroads Truck and Career Academy, 1392 Cyrville Rd, Floor 2, Ottawa, ON K1B 3L9.
For students traveling to Ottawa for the in-person week, our admissions team can provide recommendations for nearby accommodations. We have also worked to secure special rates at a nearby hotel to make your stay more affordable and convenient. Contact us for accommodation details and booking assistance.