Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor

Program overview

The Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program at Durham College is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to address the growing demand for mental health services in Canada. As mental health issues affect a significant portion of the population, this program prepares graduates to take on vital roles in community mental health. Students will engage in a blend of theoretical and practical learning, culminating in a mandatory 14-week, 420-hour experiential work placement. This hands-on experience is crucial for bridging the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to support individuals and communities facing mental health challenges.

Program structure

The Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program spans a total of Nine semesters and is delivered in person at the Oshawa campus. The program is structured to provide a comprehensive education in mental health and addictions, focusing on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Key features of the program include:

• Experiential Learning: A mandatory 14-week, 420-hour work placement that allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings.
• Collaborative Development: The program has been developed in collaboration with experts from various sectors, ensuring a well-rounded curriculum.
• Focus on Diversity: Emphasis on understanding the unique challenges faced by diverse populations, including immigrants, refugees, and Indigenous peoples.

This program is designed to prepare students for a variety of roles in community mental health, ensuring they are equipped to meet the evolving needs of the field.

Featured Experiences

The Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program offers several unique features that enhance the learning experience:

• Mandatory Field Placement: Students complete a 14-week, 420-hour field placement, providing hands-on experience in community mental health settings.
• Interdisciplinary Approach: The curriculum is developed with input from professionals across various sectors, including non-profit, government, and private organizations.
• Focus on Evidence-Based Practices: Students learn to apply evidence-informed interventions and strategies to support diverse populations.
• Cultural Humility Training: The program emphasizes understanding and addressing the social factors affecting mental health in various communities.
• Preparation for Concurrent Disorders: Students are trained to address both mental health and addiction issues, preparing them for comprehensive support roles.

Career Options

Graduates of the Honours Bachelor of Community Mental Health program will have a wide range of career opportunities in the field of community mental health. Here are some potential job roles:

• Family or Marriage Counsellor: Provide support and guidance to couples and families facing relationship challenges.
• Social and Community Service Worker: Assist individuals and families in accessing community resources and support services.
• Case Manager: Coordinate care and services for clients with mental health needs, ensuring they receive appropriate support.
• Crisis Counsellor: Offer immediate support and intervention to individuals in crisis situations.
• Mental Health Promoter: Develop and implement programs aimed at promoting mental health awareness and education.
• Addictions Counsellor: Support individuals struggling with substance use issues through counseling and recovery programs.
• Housing Advocate: Assist clients in securing stable housing and navigating related services.
• Peer Support Specialist: Provide support and guidance based on personal experience with mental health challenges.
• Residential Youth Worker: Work with at-risk youth in residential settings, providing support and guidance.

With a strong foundation in mental health programs and hands-on experience, graduates will be well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in various roles across public, private, and non-profit sectors.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.