Mental Health and Substance Use Work (Certificate)
Curriculum Guideline
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
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 |
||
|
Foundations in Health |
4.00 |
|
|
Introduction to Mental Health |
3.00 |
|
|
Common Mental Health Disorders and Interventions |
3.00 |
|
|
Therapeutic Relationships in Mental Health |
4.00 |
|
|
Practicum Experience 1 |
2.00 |
|
|
Required Courses Semester 2 |
||
|
Recovery in Mental Health |
3.00 |
|
|
Medication Management |
1.50 |
|
|
Professional Practice |
1.50 |
|
|
Mental Health and Addictions |
3.00 |
|
|
Trauma Informed Practices |
3.00 |
|
|
Practicum Experience 2 |
4.00 |
|
|
Total Credits |
32.00 |
|
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.