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Get the Skills to Become a Mental Health Specialist

Mental Health Specialist speaking with a young client.
Mental Health Specialists play an important role in many people’s recovery process

15-Week* Mental Health Specialist Training Program in British Columbia

Mental Health Specialists provide a necessary support system for individuals recovering from various disorders. By forming a relationship built on trust, professionals in this field provide the support, resources, and guidance that patients can utilize on their road to recovery.

If you’re a caring, compassionate person with a strong desire to help others, Cambria College’s Mental Health Specialist program could be an excellent opportunity for you.

The best way to see if Cambria College is the right fit for you is to come in and visit the school. You can tour our facilities, and meet with both students and instructors. Book an Appointment Now or Get more info.

Becoming a Qualified Mental Health Specialist

This diploma program prepares you to effectively manage the administrative and implementation responsibilities of a wide variety of mental health programs and services for individuals. This program is intended for people who are looking for a career in mental health support work, assisting people with personal and social issues.

This program is eligible for up to $3,000 in scholarships.

Is a Career as a Mental Health Specialist Right for You? Take the Cambria College “Mental Health Specialist Career Training Readiness Quiz”

This fun, online quiz takes 3-minutes to complete and you’ll get a personalized report. Identify your strengths and social style plus the training and positions you’re best suited for. Get Your Mental Health Specialist Career Training Readiness Score Now >>

Course Breakdown
Course No.Course NameHours
MHCSW100Child & Youth Mental Health80
MHCSW101Trauma & Attachment80
MHCSW102Homelessness & Mental Health60
MHCSW103Indigenous Approaches to Mental Wellness60
MHCSW104Canada’s Mental Health System20
Program Total15 Weeks*300 hrs

Program Duration

Total Hours300
Total Weeks15*

Admissions Requirements

  1. High School Graduate or equivalent OR mature student status (19 years or older prior to starting the program)
  2. Meet one of the following English Language Proficiency requirements:
    • Minimum Grade 10 English (Domestic Students)
    • For English as second language students; Overall IELTS 5.0 or equivalent.
    • Pass the College’s English admission test.
  3. Criminal record check.
  4. Immunization report.
  5. Complete ‘Student Declaration’ form.
  6. 6 months’ work experience in the social services OR completion of the Social Service Community Support Worker program or equivalent.

Career Opportunities

Upon completion of this program, students will seek career opportunities as:

  • Family social service worker
  • Community mental health worker
  • Resident support worker
  • Addiction and counselling support worker
  • Women shelter worker

This program is approved by the Private Training Institution Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills

Is a Rewarding Career as a Mental Health Specialist Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in learning more about a career as a Mental Health Specialist and exploring whether Cambria College is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

For immediate questions, call your nearest Cambria College location today.

Richmond: (604) 424-4000
Surrey: (604) 416-5522
Vancouver: (604) 428-7500
Victoria: (778) 265-7547

*Program length when completed in normal time