Graduate Certificate - Addictions And Mental Health (ADMH) at Georgian College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

The Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health (ADMH) at Georgian College equips students with essential skills to provide a client-centered continuum of treatment for individuals facing addiction challenges. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in both individual and group counseling techniques, while also addressing individual, gender, and societal factors that influence treatment through a trauma-informed care perspective. Students will engage in practical applications of motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), ensuring they can effectively match client needs with appropriate intervention strategies. Additionally, the program focuses on reconstructing education and prevention strategies to design, facilitate, and evaluate effective tools for addiction treatment.

Program structure

The Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health is designed to be completed in 1 year, offering both full-time and part-time study options. The program is delivered through a hybrid model, combining online and in-person learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

Program Length: 1 Year
Delivery Method: Hybrid (combination of online and in-person classes)
Internship Component: Students will participate in a supervised internship during their final semester, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting.

This structure ensures that students receive a comprehensive education while also gaining practical experience in the field of addictions and mental health.

Featured Experiences

The Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning process:

Internship Component: A structured work opportunity in the final semester allows students to apply their knowledge in a professional setting.
Interactive Counselling Labs: Students engage in hands-on practice to develop their counseling skills effectively.
Focus on Trauma-Informed Care: The program emphasizes understanding the impact of trauma on individuals with addiction issues.
Motivational Interviewing Techniques: Students learn to motivate clients towards positive change through effective communication strategies.
Reconstruction of Education and Prevention Strategies: Students design and evaluate tools aimed at preventing addiction and promoting mental health.

Career Options

Graduates of the Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health can pursue a variety of rewarding career paths in Canada, including:

Addictions Counsellor: Work with individuals struggling with substance use disorders, providing support and treatment options.
Substance Use Counsellor: Help clients understand and overcome their substance use issues through counseling and intervention strategies.
Chemical Withdrawal Management Counsellor: Assist clients in safely managing withdrawal symptoms during detoxification.
Addictions Nurse: Provide medical support and care for individuals in addiction treatment settings.
Problem Gambling Counsellor: Support individuals dealing with gambling addiction, offering counseling and resources for recovery.
Residential Treatment Attendant: Work in residential facilities, providing care and support to clients in recovery.

These roles are essential in helping individuals navigate their recovery journeys and improve their overall mental health and well-being.

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

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Last updated on 2026-03-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Graduate Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health (ADMH) program, students must meet the following academic requirements:

Applicants should possess an Ontario College Diploma, Ontario College Advanced Diploma, Degree, or equivalent with a specialty in health and wellness, human services, social work, social sciences, or related fields.
An overall minimum average of 65%, or a C+ grade, or a GPA of 2.5 is recommended in post-secondary studies.
Prior credential relevancy will be determined by the program coordinator.

For international students, it is essential to note that:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Additionally, students must complete a Criminal Reference/Vulnerable Sector Check prior to placement. This check should be obtained three months before placement, as earlier checks may not be considered current. A record of criminal offences, for which a pardon has not been granted, may prevent students from completing their placements, thereby affecting their ability to graduate.

Students are also required to bring their own device (BYOD) that meets the technology requirements for their program. This ensures preparedness for in-class, online, and hybrid learning activities. Students are responsible for the cost, software installation, maintenance, and repair of their device.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process or requirements, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Graduate Certificate - Addictions And Mental Health (ADMH) program, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency. The following English language tests are accepted:

Duolingo Language Test: Minimum score of 130
TOEFL internet-based test (IBT): Minimum score of 89
TOEFL paper-based test: Minimum score of 580
IELTS Academic only: Minimum overall band score of 6.5
YELT: Minimum score of 1-5
TOEIC (Public Test): Minimum score of 850
Graduate of Level 8 of Georgian’s GAAS – English for Academic Purposes: Completion of Level 8 with 80% or higher
Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)/CAEL Online: Minimum score of 60
Pearson Test of Academic English (PTE): Minimum score of 61
Cambridge English: C1 Advanced (CAE): Minimum score of 175

Note: English language tests older than two years will not be considered. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!