Certificate in Emergency Mental Health

The Certificate in Emergency Mental Health (EMH) is a structured theoretical and practicum-based program designed for health care professionals who wish to enhance their knowledge and skill in caring for individuals and families experiencing mental health crises and/or emergencies. This program is appropriate for all health care or human service professionals, paramedics, firefighters, and other first responders.

Tuition and information regarding the length of each course can be found on the course pages linked below. 

Program Learning Outcomes

Program graduates will be able to:

  • articulate relevant legislation and how the legislation impacts EMH practice;
  • articulate available provincial mental health services and resources;
  • understand the need to practice within an interdisciplinary and interprofessional framework in EMH practice;
  • apply professional standards, ethics, and relevant legislation to EMH practice;
  • describe factors that contribute to triaging emergency mental health calls;
  • understand crisis theory and models of practice related to emergency mental health practice;
  • utilize advanced psychiatric interviewing and communication skills with individuals and families experiencing MHSU crisis or emergency situations;
  • conduct comprehensive mental health assessments including all relevant risk assessments;
  • utilize DSM-5 diagnostic criteria for Mental Health and Substance Use disorders;
  • identify assessment, intervention and treatment strategies related to EMH;
  • identify assessment, intervention and treatment strategies required to care for individuals experiencing physiological disorders related to MHSU disorders;
  • use critical thinking skills to effectively manage mental health emergencies;
  • identify key elements of a safe working environment in EMH practice;
  • describe clinical and workplace factors that may contribute to stress;
  • demonstrate techniques to reduce work-related stress;
  • adhere to the principles of Truth and Reconciliation, Cultural Humility, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in EMH practice;
  • practice utilizing a violence and trauma informed care and recovery approach

Courses

Program Admission

Admission requirements include: 

  • Proof of completion of English 12 with a minimum grade of “C” or proof of equivalent as outlined in detail here: https://www.douglascollege.ca/programs-courses/general-information/admissions; 
  • Proof of official designation in a health or human services profession - including registration or licensing with a regulatory body to ensure the professional is licensed to provide a specific level of care/risk assessment

To apply, please email cehsadmin@douglascollege.ca for more information. 

Tuition

Each course has its own tuition fee. Tuition is noted on the individual course pages linked above. 

Program Duration

Learners have up to 18 months from start date to complete all the courses required for the certificate. However, as courses are self-paced and registration is continuous, dedicated students may complete the entire program in less than the maximum time permitted.

Each program course has an identified time frame for completion. If learners are unable to complete a course within the allotted time, they must request an extension in writing (via email) — one extension per course is permitted.

Credential

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, learners are awarded a Douglas College Certificate in Emergency Mental Health. This certificate is issued by the Graduation Office in the Office of the Registrar.

In order to receive the certificate, all three courses in the program must be completed. The first two theory courses can be completed on their own but will not result in a certificate. 

For more information on the program and to register, please contact our Program Assistant by email at cehs@douglascollege.ca.