Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma
Enroll in our online Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma program to further your career today!
The Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma at Career City College prepares students to support individuals and communities facing addiction, mental health challenges, and social barriers. Students develop practical skills in counselling, crisis intervention, case management, and community resource coordination.
Through a combination of theoretical learning and supervised practicum experience, students learn how to assess client needs, provide supportive interventions, and connect individuals with appropriate services. Graduates are prepared to work in addiction treatment centres, community organizations, mental health agencies, shelters, and other social service environments.
Is Our Addictions and community services worker diploma Right for You?
This program may be a strong fit if you:
Program Highlights
Discover What Makes Our Program Different
Addictions and community services worker diploma Career Outcomes
$35/hour
Source: Job Bank of Canada
Why Choose Career City College?
We Guarantee Our Resources, Guidance, And Support Until You Are Successfully And Gainfully Employed
Online Learning
Access to One-on-One Instructor Support
Flexible Schedules
Job Preparedness
Financial Assistance
Accelerated Programs
*Financial assistance is available for students who qualify. To determine your eligibility, please contact our Admissions Department.
Course Overview
By completing this program, students develop essential skills needed to support individuals and communities dealing with addiction and mental health challenges.
Students will learn how to:
✔ Understand addiction, mental health, and community support theories
✔ Apply counselling and intervention strategies
✔ Conduct client intake assessments and interviews
✔ Develop personalized treatment and support plans
✔ Provide crisis intervention and support during high-risk situations
✔ Implement relapse prevention and harm reduction strategies
✔ Connect clients with community resources and services
✔ Work with diverse populations in culturally sensitive ways
✔ Apply ethical and professional standards in the field
Courses
- ACSW 100 – Interpersonal Communication for Human Services
Develop effective communication skills required to build trust and support clients in human services settings.
- ACSW 101 – Introduction to Community Support Work
Learn the foundations of community support work, including roles, responsibilities, and client-centered practices.
- ACSW 110 – Introduction to Psychology & Mental Health
Explore psychological principles and mental health concepts relevant to community support and addiction services.
- ACSW 120 – Addiction Fundamentals
Gain an understanding of addiction theories, substance use disorders, and recovery approaches.
- ACSW 130 – Human Development
Examine human growth and development across the lifespan and how it relates to behaviour and mental health.
- ACSW 140 – Addiction, Abuse & Vulnerable Population
Learn how addiction and abuse impact vulnerable populations and explore strategies to provide effective support.
- ACSW 150 – Trauma & Crisis Intervention
Develop practical techniques for responding to crises and supporting individuals experiencing trauma.
- ACSW 160 – Pharmacology
Understand the role of medications in addiction and mental health treatment.
- ACSW 170 – Fundamentals of Counselling
Learn basic counselling techniques used to support individuals dealing with addiction and personal challenges.
- ACSW 180 – Intake Assessment & Interviewing
Develop skills to conduct client interviews and assess needs in professional support settings.
- ACSW 190 – Group Counselling Facilitation Concepts
Learn how to facilitate group counselling sessions and support peer recovery environments.
- ACSW 200 – Family Counselling
Learn how to facilitate family counselling sessions and support recovery within family systems.
- ACSW 201 – Introduction to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Gain foundational knowledge of CBT techniques used in addiction and mental health treatment.
- ACSW 202 – Clinical Assessment & Treatment Planning
Learn how to assess client needs and develop structured treatment plans.
- ACSW 203 – Recovery Skills & Prevention
Focus on relapse prevention, recovery strategies, and long-term support planning.
- ACSW 204 – Case Management
Develop skills to coordinate services, monitor progress, and advocate for clients.
- ACSW 205 – Client Referral, Reports & Recordkeeping
Learn professional documentation and referral processes in social service settings.
- ACSW 206 -Professional Ethics: Addictions & Mental Health Worker
Understand ethical responsibilities and professional standards in addiction and mental health services.
- ACSW 300 – Practicum
Complete 230 hours of supervised field experience in an addiction or community services environment.
Prerequisites
- ✔ Applicants must have completed grade 12 or equivalent or have mature student status (at least 19 years old).
✔ Applicants must demonstrate English proficiency through any one of the following:
1. Completion of grades 9-11, including English 11 with a grade of ‘C’ or higher from a country where English is one of the principal languages.
2. Completion of 2 years of full-time post-secondary education at an accredited institution where English is the language of instruction
3. Provide verified results for one of the English language proficiency tests listed below. Test results must be dated no more than two years before the start date of the program:
– IELTS Academic: Overall score of 5.5 or higher - – CAEL Test: Overall score of 40 or above
- – Duolingo English Test: Overall score of 95 or above
- – TOEFL iBT: 46 or above
- – CELPIP: Minimum scores- Listening: 6, Speaking: 6, Reading: 5, Writing: 5.
– Eiken: Pre-1.
– Cambridge FCE+: 160 or C | Cambridge Linguaskill – B2 or above
– PTE: 43 or above.
– iTEP Academic: 3.5 or above. ✔ Applicants will have to declare two years of sobriety
Mature Student Applicants: Applicant is 19 years or older at the start of the program and is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who can access their educational records or provider sufficient evidence of secondary or post-secondary education as outlined:
- Applicant provides attestation that they have completed at least three years of full-time instruction in English in a country where the English is one of the principal languages
- Applicant completes an Accuplacer English Assessment (Next Generation: Reading, Writing and WritePlacer) and achieves the following minimum scores:
– Reading: 230
– Writing: 230
– WritePlacer: 4
Job Opportunities
Graduates of the Addictions and Community Services Worker program may pursue careers in social services and community-based organizations that support individuals experiencing addiction or mental health challenges. Potential job opportunities include:
- Addictions Counselor: Support individuals recovering from substance use disorders by providing counselling, relapse prevention strategies, and recovery planning in addiction treatment or community health settings.
- Community Support Worker: Assist individuals facing addiction, mental health challenges, or social barriers by connecting them with community resources, housing support, and social services.
- Mental Health Worker: Provide support to individuals experiencing mental health conditions by assisting with recovery programs, daily living activities, and therapeutic support in community or clinical environments.
- Rehabilitation Support Worker: Help individuals recovering from addiction or mental health challenges build life skills and regain independence while supporting rehabilitation and recovery programs.
- Crisis Intervention Worker: Respond to individuals experiencing emotional or psychological crises by providing immediate support, de-escalation, and referrals to appropriate mental health or community services.
- Case Manager: Coordinate care and support services for clients by assessing needs, developing service plans, and connecting individuals with addiction treatment programs, healthcare providers, and community resources.
- Residential Support Worker: Provide daily support to individuals living in group homes, recovery residences, or supportive housing by assisting with life skills, recovery goals, and maintaining a stable environment.
- Youth Support Worker: Support young people facing addiction, mental health, or social challenges by offering guidance, mentorship, and access to community programs and resources.
- Substance Abuse Prevention Worker: Promote addiction prevention and community awareness through education programs, outreach initiatives, and support services aimed at reducing substance misuse.
Source: Government of Canada
Program Tuition
Our Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma is available for the following price.
Domestic Student
$15,150.00
International Student
$15, 525.00
All prices include books, materials, and GST.
Please visit our finance page to learn more about the many options that can help fund your education.
Frequently Asked Questions
Make Informed Decisions, Clarify Any Doubts, And Ensure You Have The Best Possible Experience
Career City College is designated by the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB). Career City College has also been granted an Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, indicating our career career college meets or exceeds provincial government standards for quality assurance and consumer protection. Furthermore, Career City College is a proud member of the National Association of Career Colleges (NACC), ensuring our college meets the highest regulatory standards. These designations serve as a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality education, relevant training, and practical skills that prepare our students for successful careers.
Yes, we have a dedicated FAO team to help guide students on their financial needs. Our Career Advisors will also assist you in discovering what scholarships may be available to you based on your circumstances. Please note that financial assistance is available for students that qualify. To determine your eligibility, please contact our Admissions Department.
Yes, this program is structured for self-paced learning. However, you must adhere to the set timeline to complete the program on time. If you have any questions or need to catch up on your studies, our teachers will assist you.
Yes, you’ll need a computer to access the online courses. Additional materials are also necessary to complete the course. Please fill out the request info form to receive a comprehensive list from one of our team members.
The exact cost of the certificate can be obtained by contacting us. Please fill out the request info form, and a Career Advisor will discuss the program’s tuition details with you.
Student Success Stories
The experience with Career City College was so positive and beneficial for my career path. The course structure and access process was excellent and I truly appreciated all the information and content offered. At first I was hesitant if I could complete the courses in the allotted time but once I started the worry subsided and the process was very attainable. The staff and instructors were all very helpful and only a phone call or email away. The entire process was very positive and fulfilling. Thank you Career City College for being part of my successful career path.
This was an amazing experience. I learned how to make software work for me. I learned a lot more than just your basic bookkeeping and accounting. It was easy to contact the instructors and their responses helped me with my problems many times. Thanks Kim!! The videos were amazing and I gained alot of knowledge from watching them. Thank you.
Thank you from Career City College, and I am so glad I chose this college to learn accounting and bookkeeping. All the processes from the beginning to the end, from registration to graduation, were excellent. The professors and their constant companionship are admirable and praiseworthy. Moreover, I have completed my course with a feeling of peace. I wish you the best.
I have really enjoyed my studies with Career City College. It has been super convenient to be able to have well structured courses that have made studying and learning online and from home a breeze. The instructors are all extremely friendly and always reply with good help and patience in a very timely matter. The layout of platforms to work from is very organized and easy to use. I would recommend Career City College to anyone who wants to get through studies online with great teachers and student services at your side.
I have had a great time learning during the past 6 months. The instructors are very helpful and you can easily get hold of them when you need them during class hours. The lessons are sometimes complicated but it is just a part of the challenge. All in all, I learned a lot and I am proud that Career City College was the school that I had chosen when I took my course.
My overall experience with CCC was much more than I could have envisioned. When I made the decision to further upgrade my education, it was with much thought, research and consideration-but then I had to choose the right school to help me achieve my goal. From the first initial phone call to my enrolment and the final call, I never felt alone on my journey. It was without saying, a positive and empowering experience. Thank you CCC for the support, and step-by-step assistance provided to me from day one-I couldn’t have done it without you!
The service provided by the whole team at CCC was AMAZING!! The welcoming atmosphere and the support provided was what helped me to keep pushing myself to complete my program. Especially through these every trying times. Great job CCC 😊👍 Thank you CCC for the support, and step-by-step assistance provided to me from day one-I couldn’t have done it without you!
As an immigrant, this was my first introduction to the Canadian school/continuing education system. I made the best choice in choosing City Career College. I can say enough about the program. However, the real rockstars for me were the staff member I interacted with. Carrie and Donna, redefined the meaning of above and beyond. Always courteous, prompt and willing. They made a major difference for me. They were the catalysts for my success.
I had an amazing experience with the school and staff. I have learned more than I had expected to which will help me in my future endeavours. I’m very thankful I had such an amazing teacher throughout the whole course. When I needed a little push she was always able to give me one. My husband and I were starting our own small business and I was not sure where to start. This course gave me the confidence and knowledge that I needed.
I highly recommend Career City College. The instructors are informative, helpful, and very quick to respond if you ever have a concern or a question that needs to be answered. The courses are outlined clearly on the tasks that need to be completed. The information provided helped me grow and learn new things that will help me in my career search. Thank you to Career City College for pushing me and thank you to all the wonderful instructors and staff that helped me along the way! Just an overall positive experience!
Great staff, informative course material, this has been one of the most important moments in my re-education. Thanks to all that helped me directly and indirectly. I recommend this college for the great teaching from step one to the final step. Staff always helped when stuck or unsure of the steps to be taken. By far one of the best experiences while being educated. Thanks again to everyone! Keep up the exceptional work!
I just finished my Accounting & Bookkeeping course at Career City College. This was the best decision I have ever made. Great program!!! The instructors (specially Phillip Allums and Kerresa Wright) went above and beyond to help me during my journey, replying to my e-mails on time and calling regularly to follow up with my studies and keep me motivated. If you want to invest in your future, Career City College is the way to go. It is definitely worth every cent!!! Thank you instructors and staff!!!
Wonderful courses. Staff are very friendly and always willing to help if you are ever unsure or stuck in an area. Lots of tools provided to help you. I always had questions, and the teachers responded quickly and provided documents to help you practice as well as understand the materials more. It is also such a positive, encouraging environment. Had a really pleasant time doing studies here.
I would highly recommend this college . the teachers go above and beyond with one on one training , they go into depth on helping there students succeed in any industry. I cant thank you guys enough on the skills i now have in my industry of business. I will definitely recommend you guys to my friends and family.
Skylyn Mundell
I recently took the Business Management in Accounting program and was very pleased with everything! I learned a lot and the professors were very helpful and supportive, they made sure they made the time to help if needed and the course outline was laid out perfectly!
Sarah
I had a great experience with Career City College! I took the accounting/bookkeeping course and absolutely loved it. I could do it on my own time while still working to be able to pay the bills. They were always there and ready/willing to help if I was stuck on anything. The program was explained very well and the classes weren’t boring whatsoever. I also moved on to get the job that I wanted as an accounting tech and absolutely love it. Very thankful for this experience!
Tanya
As I have an auditory learning disability and eager to learn about the office administrator course. Career City College were able to accommodate with a voice reader that read the information with ease. Which made learning a lot easier.
Hailee Hearn
I can’t say enough good things about Career City College & the staff!! I called up one day interested in a complete different program than I am taking & if it wasn’t for my career advisor; I would never have known about the human resource management program. She listened to my issues with finding work after school & having small kids & she matched the most perfect program & future career to my needs. That stood out the most being a mom! It’s also a bonus I don’t have to go to school, find daycare & still have time for my kids with doing my schooling from home. I will always highly recommend this school!
Daliborka
I completed the Accounting Bookkeeping Certificate at Career City College through the fully online program. It was an excellent way for anyone wanting to study and continue to work at the same time. The course modules were laid out well and everything was easy to understand. Anytime I had problems that stumped me, all my instructors were just an email away and able to help me. The course teaches the basics needed to become an employable bookkeeper. Since graduating I have started my own business and already have three clients. I would highly recommend Career City College.
Stepfanie H
I wasn’t sure about doing an online course but the instructors made it very easy for me and I graduated with honours! 😊
Irena T
I finished the Office Asministration course. The course overally wasn’t too complicated. Software learning was a real fun. All instructors are nice. They checked on me regularly. Separately I want to thank City Career College for supporting me as a Ukrainian with a great scholarship. I believe my certificate will start a new career in Canada🙂
Julia Harms
Awesome staff! Definitely did the right choice to do my Accounting & Bookkeeping Certificate with Career City College. Very good education structure. I did my course online, but always had a contact person, so never felt alone or helpless. It was worth it.
Vanessa Su
Marcy M
I completed the Accounting/Bookkeeping Certificate. I was so happy to have the option to take this program online and was able to complete it while working and being a busy mom. I found the information very useful and use it in my current position.
Roberta Becker
My college experience was amazing! The online delivery of the my course was flexible and convenient for me, learning could not have gone smoother. The course material was soo great and all the staff and instructors were very easy to communicate with. I loved every minute of my experience and highly recommend choosing this college for an exceptional educational experience.
Samaneh Mehrabi
Great experience of studying on my own pace. I studied Accounting and Bookkeeping in Career City College. The instructors were responding to emails very fast and the course content was so useful and practical. Thank you all!
Grace Almas
I highly recommend your school. It has a well organized course outline and the teachers are knowledgeably and easy to respond to.
Elise Kostiuk
I took a 6 month online Bookkeeping/Accounting course with them last year, 2024, a few months later I landed my dream job everything I learned from the college! The staff is all wonderful and helpful! The course was great, it was so great in fact I signed up for another one this year, 2025, the Human Resource certificate! The staff is still amazing and remembered me and everything about me! I have just begun my second class with them! As a returning student I am glad to be back studying with them!! I highly recommend Career City College in Kelowna!!
Manvir
Great hands-on learning experience
Danika Breckenridge
Wonder place, wonderful people ❤
Diana Padrigo Thambiaiah
Had a great learning experience. All the staff are very involved and supportive. I would recommend this school if you’re looking to upgrade your skills.
Sabine W.
Very friendly staff and teachers! I went through a couple staff changes that slowed my studies down a bit, but this is not worth taking a star away from my rating. The career adviser is absolutely amazing and very fast in responding to emails.
Michael Loewen
Great instructors and staff. Great program!
Brittany Spooner
I had a great experience with Career City College. The instructors were amazing and the course material was great.
SaintPeter Ori
Friendly and helpful staff. The courses are customized to meet the demands in the labour market. I found the courses very relevant in my job. It was an investment I was happy I made.
Akeem Stewart
I started looking at online accounting courses and I found Career City College. My experience with the course was great. I was reassured along the way and the teachers were very helpful.. I am very pleased with the school and course and my overall experience!
Emkay Kolsto
Wonderful courses. Staff are very friendly and always willing to help if you are ever unsure or stuck in an area. Lots of tools provided to help you. I always had questions, and the teachers responded quickly and provided documents to help you practice as well as understand the materials more.
It is also such a positive, encouraging environment.
Had a really pleasant time doing studies here.
Shayley McKee
Teachers were very helpful and so understanding. I had a rough year in my personal life & my teachers never gave up on me.
Monique Carignan
Friendly staff. Really good program if you are working as well as wanting to take courses. you work on your own time and create your own schedule. would recommend!
Bailey Riza
Great school especially for mature students who are working part time or have families. You can work at your pace and set your schedule. The instructors were easy to work with and the quality of the education was good as well.
Jacira Rocha Fortes
I just finished my Accounting & Bookkeeping course at Career City College. This was the best decision I have ever made. Great program!!! The instructors (specially Phillip Allums and Kerresa Wright) went above and beyond to help me during my journey, replying to my e-mails on time and calling regularly to follow up with my studies and keep me motivated. If you want to invest in your future, Career City College is the way to go. It is definitely worth every cent!!! Thank you instructors and staff!!!
William May
Great staff, informative course material, this has been one of the most important moments in my re-education. Thanks to all that helped me directly and indirectly.
I recommend this college for the great teaching from step one to the final step. Staff always helped when stuck or unsure of the steps to be taken.
By far one of the best experiences while being educated. Thanks again to everyone! Keep up the exceptional work!
Jessica James
I highly recommend Career City College. The instructors are informative, helpful, and very quick to respond if you ever have a concern or a question that needs to be answered. The courses are outlined clearly on the tasks that need to be completed. The information provided helped me grow and learn new things that will help me in my career search.
Thank you to Career City College for pushing me and thank you to all the wonderful instructors and staff that helped me along the way!
Just an overall positive experience!
Karla MacLennan
I had an amazing experience with the school and staff. I have learned more than I had expected to which will help me in my future endeavours. I’m very thankful I had such an amazing teacher throughout the whole course. When I needed a little push she was always able to give me one. My husband and I were starting our own small business and I was not sure where to start. This course gave me the confidence and knowledge that I needed.
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