MHC addictions counselling program begins this fall

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on March 20, 2025.

Medicine Hat College will welcome 25 students into its new addictions counselling program this fall.

The two-year diploma program integrates theory and practical skills in assessment, treatment, prevention and relapse, and will include a six-credit, 240-hour work placement in the spring semester of the second year.

The curriculum is based on an established program at Northern Lakes College, with additional program components that align with the province’s recovery model.

According to a release, the diploma program will also incorporate Indigenous ways of healing and the Brain Story, a fluid body of research on personal resilience that offers a deepening understanding of brain development and how it affects lifelong health.

“Together, these components focus on mental and physical health, better relationships and the cultural and spiritual disturbances connected to addiction,” says Dr. Jason Openo, dean for the School of Health and Community Services.

Openo says the new program will be tailored to the region with practices focused on supporting local community agencies.

The college received a one-time investment from the province of approximately $580,000 in 2024 to fund the program as part of its $10-million targeted enrolment expansion initiative to support mental health initiatives at colleges and universities. This week the investment received the final ministry approval.

“The addition of an Addictions Counselling diploma provides an important complement to the college’s existing program mix and increases our ability to support rural health education in southeast Alberta,” says Dr. Nancy Brown, vice-president academic and provost. “MHC has experience delivering this type of training which is critical to support evolving needs in the region related to addictions counselling and mental health.”

The funding will allow for the program to expand from 25 to 50 seats in 2026. Registration information can be found on the college’s website.