Mental Health and Substance Use Work

Curriculum Guideline

Effective Date:
Program Code
CTMHSU
Discontinued
No
Program
Faculty
Health Sciences
Department
Mental Health and Personal Support Work
Credential Type
Certificate
Transcript Title
Mntl Hlth and Substance Use
Date of First Offering
Start Term
202420
End Term
Not Specified
Credential
Certificate
Length of Program
Two semesters
Credits
32.00
Admissions Requirements

Applicants must meet the admission requirements listed below:

I. Academic Admission Requirements

II. Non-Academic Admission Requirements

Following an offer of admission to the program:

  • A Criminal Record Check (CRC) - Details will be provided at the time the applicant is offered admission to the program. All costs related to the CRC are the responsibility of the applicant.
  • Admission Interview – Applicants may be required to participate in an interview with the Program Coordinator for the purposes of providing additional information and/or academic advising.


Pre-Clinical Requirements for Clinical Practice:

  • A current record of immunizations is required before clinical practice begins. All costs related to required immunizations and/or testing are the responsibility of the applicant

 

Note:  We strongly recommend you attend an information session

Curriculum Framework

Graduation Requirements

  • Successful completion of at least 27.75 credits
  • Minimum grades are required, as follows:
    • C+ in all MHPS courses or equivalents
    • Mastery in all clinical practice and preceptorship courses
  • In good academic standing
  • A minimum of 50% (16 credits) of all coursework must be completed at Douglas College
  • Time limit to complete the program graduation requirements: 4 years. Any courses completed outside of that time limit will not be usable. Students may seek the permission of the Department/Program to complete a credential outside the approved time limits.

Course Requirements: 

Course Number 

Course Description 

Credits 

Required Courses Semester 1

MHPS 1400

Foundations in Health

4.00

MHPS 1500

Introduction to Mental Health

3.00

MHPS 1600

Common Mental Health Disorders and Interventions

3.00

MHPS 1700

Therapeutic Relationships in Mental Health

4.00

MHPS 1800

Practicum Experience 1

2.00

Required Courses Semester 2

MHPS 1900

Recovery in Mental Health

3.00

MHPS 2000

Medication Management

1.50

MHPS 2100

Professional Practice

1.50

MHPS 2200

Mental Health and Addictions

3.00

MHPS 2300

Trauma Informed Practices

3.00

MHPS 2400

Practicum Experience 2

4.00

Total Credits 

32.00 

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the Mental Health and Substance Use Work program, graduates will be able to:

1.    Use the principles of psychosocial rehabilitation (PSR) to support, assist and promote the physical, psychological, cognitive, social, and spiritual health and well-being of clients, families, and groups.

2.    Understand the importance of considering equity, diversity, and inclusion principles in mental health care and PSR.

3.    Demonstrate an understanding of mental health and substance use disorders and relevant treatment modalities based on current literature and research.  

4.    Understand the role and importance of psychotropic medications, as well as other prescribed medications and their side effects, in maintaining wellness from a PSR perspective.  

5.    Utilize trauma informed and harm reduction principles when working with vulnerable and marginalized people and groups.

6.    Demonstrate an awareness of and adherence to the core principles of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission including the impact of colonization and the resultant historical trauma on Indigenous peoples of BC.

7.    Interact and collaborate with the multidisciplinary health care teams in ways that contribute to effective working relationships and the achievement of client-centered goals.

8.    Demonstrate critical thinking and problem-solving skills in providing client-centred care.

9.    Understand pertinent mental health legislation as it applies to mental health practice.

10.    Communicate clearly, accurately, and sensitively with clients, families, and groups in a variety of community and facility contexts.

11.    Recognize and respond to own self-development, learning, and health enhancement needs.

12.    Perform the supporter role in a reflective, responsible, accountable, and professional manner adhering to evidenced-based best-practices of mental health care.