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VICTORIA, B.C.⁠— As B.C. faces the dual public health emergencies of the COVID-19 pandemic and the opioid overdose crisis, the demand for mental health and addiction professionals is greater than ever before. Now, with new B.C. government funding, AV��Դ is adding 20 additional spaces to its popular Mental Health and Addictions Certificate program to help fill the gaps in growing community needs, beginning May 2021.

“The field is in need of more people with appropriate training and education,” says Jeanne Puritch, Chair of Camosun’s Community, Family and Child Studies department. “There has been a rise in overdose deaths and mental health challenges arising from the pandemic and there is a great need for people to be out in the field responding to these crises in unique and creative ways. Our program has adjusted to that reality.”

Camosun's Mental Health and Addictions Certificate is a three-semester, full-time equivalent program currently offered through a blend of online and limited face-to-face, experiential learning. Graduates gain the competencies required to begin their careers in community mental health and addictions employment through real-world experience with a partner agency.

“Camosun is highly regarded in the field for providing a comprehensive program based on current and relevant evidence-based research,” adds Puritch. “Our program is designed to give opportunities for that essential hands-on experience through a practicum in the field with our community partners.”

The additional 20 spaces is made possible through an investment from B.C.’s Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training and Ministry of Mental Health and Addictions to support overall community mental health, and is part StrongerBC - B.C.’s Economic Recovery Plan, to help thousands of people upskill or reskill and to find their place in the post-COVID-19 economy.

Camosun’s mental health and addictions certificate program is designed for people who want to begin their career in the field. For working professionals,

Camosun also offers a brand new advanced certificate in Mental Health, Addictions and Criminal Justice starting in September 2021, as well as an (IMHA) diploma to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills to work collaboratively with people affected by mental health and/or addiction/substance use challenges

The next cohort of Camosun’s mental health and addictions certificate program starts in May 2021. Students can Apply online now.