Health & Community Studies
Addictions, Community, and Mental Health Professional
NOC-4212
Program Description
The Addictions, Community, and Mental Health Professional (ACMHP) diploma program is a full-time program offered at SIIT’s Saskatoon, Regina, and Prince Albert campuses, as well as select community locations. Through classroom instruction, counselling practice sessions, and field placements, students learn and apply both Indigenous and Western wholistic approaches to healing and addiction counselling. The curriculum follows a lifespan approach, addressing the needs of youth, adults, and older adults.
The ACMHP program is designed to support students in developing the foundational skills and knowledge required to become professionals in the fields of addictions, community engagement, and mental health support. The first year emphasizes intrapersonal development, encouraging students to engage in personal reflection, build self-awareness, and understand their role as emerging professionals in the field. In the second year, students broaden and refine their counselling skills through applied learning and advanced coursework. Addiction and recovery models are explored as frameworks for working with clients and communities. While the journey toward professional readiness can be challenging, the program’s emphasis on community creates a supportive environment that empowers students to grow personally and practice competently.
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements
- Completed one of the following: Grade 12, Adult 12, or GED
Non-Academic Requirements
- If you have experienced a substance use disorder(s) and/or a mental health diagnosis you must be at a stage in recovery and wellness that will allow you to fully engage in your studies and provide safe, effective support to others. Additionally, you must be two years post-treatment or in full recovery from the substance use disorder to apply and/or receiving support for the mental health diagnosis. However, one-year post-treatment may be considered if there is sufficient evidence to support your readiness for the program. If you have any questions related to personal readiness for the program, please contact Admissions and they will redirect you to a Program Coordinator. An interview may be requested to complete your application.
- Provide two (2) character reference letters from employers, mentors, or community leaders who can attest to your readiness, character, and suitability for the Addictions, Community, and Mental Health Professional (ACMHP) program. The letters should clearly show your commitment to professionalism, ethical standards, along with your understanding and sensitivity toward vulnerable populations. References must be from non-family members.
Download Character Reference Letter - Submit a Letter of Intent regarding your motivation for enrolling in the program. This letter should clearly articulate your personal and professional goals, relevant experiences, and explain how the program aligns with your career aspirations in the areas of addictions counselling, community outreach, and mental health support.
- If you are accepted into the ACMHP program, you must follow SIIT’s policies for professional conduct and represent SIIT appropriately throughout your studies, including practicums. This expectation aligns with SIIT’s Academic Student Policies regarding Non-Academic Misconduct.
- Additionally, an updated Criminal Record Check (CRC) and Vulnerable Sector Check (VSC) will be required prior to the first practicum placement in Year 1, Semester 1. The results of the CRC or VSC may impact eligibility for practicum placement. This will be determined once the results have been reviewed by the Program Coordinator.
Acceptance Policy
SIIT provides preferential admission to applicants who are of First Nation’s ancestry; however, SIIT programs are open to everyone, and all application will be considered. SIIT relies on section 56 of The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code, 2018 to provide preference to applicants who are of First Nations’ ancestry.
Permanent Resident Applicant Information
SIIT is not currently legislated to accept International Students. You must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident to apply.
For Permanent Resident applications we will request the following documentation:
- Copy of Permanent Resident Card
- International Qualifications Assessment (IQAS) International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS) | Alberta.ca Your high school/secondary education credentials must be assessed through this service.
- Canadian Language Benchmark – English Assessment of CLB 7. We will accept either International English Language Testing System (IELTS) - Academic or Canadian English Language Proficiency Program (CELPIP) – General.
Courses
Year 1 Semester 1
| Code | Course Title | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ENGL 100 | Writing for Academic Success | 45 | 3 |
| MHPP 110 | Mental Health and Wellness Professional Practice | 45 | 3 |
| INST 201 | Introduction to Indigenous Studies | 45 | 3 |
| IPCF 105 | Interpersonal Communication & Facilitation | 45 | 3 |
| MHDA 110 | Dynamics of Addictions & Recovery | 60 | 4 |
| MHFP 116 | Field Placement I | 120 | 8 |
| *First Aid Training | 12 | – |
Year 1 Semester 2
| Code | Course Title | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| MHIF 120 | Therapeutic Interventions for Families | 60 | 4 |
| MHWP 120 | Pharmacology | 60 | 4 |
| MHIM 120 | Indigenous Models of Healing & Practice | 60 | 4 |
| PSYC 111 | Introduction to Psychology | 75 | 5 |
| MHCA 120 | Case Management & Assessment | 60 | 4 |
| MHYA 120 | Complexity of Youth Addiction | 45 | 3 |
| MHFP126 | Field Placement II | 120 | 8 |
Year 2 Semester 1
| Code | Course Title | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| MHHD 220 | Human Development | 45 | 3 |
| MHGL 220 | Grief & Loss | 45 | 3 |
| MHCT 220 | Counselling Theories I | 60 | 4 |
| MHRR 220 | Recreation for Recovery | 45 | 3 |
| MHFP 216 | Field Placement III | 180 | 12 |
| *Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST) | 12 | – |
Year 2 Semester 2
| Code | Course Title | Hours | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| MHCT 230 | Counselling Theories II | 75 | 5 |
| MHAT 230 | Cycles of Abuse and Trauma | 60 | 4 |
| MHIP 230 | Indigenous Wellness Practices | 30 | 2 |
| MHEB 230 | Emotional and Behavioural Challenges | 45 | 3 |
| MHAR 230 | Addictions and Recovery | 30 | 2 |
| ENGL 200 | Literature and Composition | 45 | 3 |
| MHFP 226 | Field Placement IV | 180 | 12 |
| *Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) | 12 | – |
*Students must participate in these training courses as part of their preparation for field placements. This requirement ensures that students acquire the essential skills and knowledge needed to provide safe, effective, and professional support during their practical experience.
Fall 2026 - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 1 - Regina
Program Length: 9 Months
Start Date: 08/31/2026
Division: Health and Community Studies
Campus: Regina
Location: Regina - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional - Year 1
Apply Now
For more information on the Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional program, please contact SIIT Admissions at (306) 477-9325 or by email at advisor@siit.ca.
Fall 2026 - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 1 - Saskatoon
Program Length: 9 Months
Start Date: 08/31/2026
Division: Health and Community Studies
Campus: Saskatoon
Location: Saskatoon - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional - Year 1
Apply Now
For more information on the Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional program, please contact SIIT Admissions at (306) 477-9325 or by email at advisor@siit.ca.
Fall 2026 - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 2 - Saskatoon
Program Length: 9 Months
Start Date: 08/31/2026
Division: Health and Community Studies
Campus: Saskatoon
Location: Saskatoon - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional - Year 2
Apply Now
For more information on the Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional program, please contact SIIT Admissions at (306) 477-9325 or by email at advisor@siit.ca.
Fall 2026 - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 2 - Prince Albert
Program Length: 9 Months
Start Date: 08/31/2026
Division: Health and Community Studies
Campus: Prince Albert
Location: Prince Albert - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional - Year 2
Apply Now
To qualify for this program, you must have completed SIIT's Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 1 program. For more information, please contact SIIT Admissions at (306) 477-9325 or by email at advisor@siit.ca.
Fall 2026 - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 2 - Yorkton
Program Length: 9 Months
Start Date: 08/31/2026
Division: Health and Community Studies
Campus: Other
Location: Yorkton - Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional - Year 2
Apply Now
To qualify for this program, you must have completed SIIT's Addictions, Community and Mental Health Professional Year 1 program. For more information, please contact SIIT Admissions at (306) 477-9325 or by email at advisor@siit.ca.
Tuition and Fees
Year One
| Tuition | Textbooks | Laptop | Compulsory Fees* |
Total* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5,552.00 | $1,000.00 | $850.00 | $1,112.00 | $8,514.00 |
| Please note: All tuition and fees are subject to change. *Compulsory fees may include: student fees, field trip and/or practicum fees, laboratory fees, apprenticeship fees, PPE & other equipment, exam fees, online fees, consumables, safety and first aid training, and tools. *Total amount does not include the required UPass Transit Bus Pass for Saskatoon & Regina students. |
||||
Year Two
| Tuition | Textbooks | Laptop | Compulsory Fees* |
Total* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $6,994.00 | $1,100.00 | $0.00 | $1,687.00 | $9,781.00 |
| Please note: All tuition and fees are subject to change. *Compulsory fees may include: student fees, field trip and/or practicum fees, laboratory fees, apprenticeship fees, PPE & other equipment, exam fees, online fees, consumables, safety and first aid training, and tools. *Total amount does not include the required UPass Transit Bus Pass for Saskatoon & Regina students. |
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Additional Fees: U-Pass for Saskatoon and Regina Transit Bus Passes
| U-PASS | |
|---|---|
|
$286.00 per year - Saskatoon $246.00 per year - Regina |
The U-Pass is a City Transit bus pass for students that allow you to save on transportation costs. The U-Pass fee is provided at a reduced cost compared to a standard monthly City Transit pass and is mandatory for most SIIT students in Saskatoon and Regina. You may use the U-Pass as many times as you would like during the academic term. Students who meet certain requirements can opt-out of the U-Pass. Please contact the Admissions department for more information. |
| Please note: U-Pass fees are subject to change. | |
Funding
Depending on your status, different forms of financial assistance are available to you. Please click here to explore options for funding. If you require assistance finding funding, please contact supportservices@siit.ca.
What to Expect
Length of Program
Eighteen (18) months or four semesters covering two academic years.
Delivery Method
Direct instruction, in-person.
Academic Policy
Students attending must adhere to SIIT Academic & Student policies which are available on the mySIIT dashboard on the SIIT website.
Attendance Policy
Students are required to attend instructor-led theory and practical sessions and must maintain a minimum of 90% attendance throughout the program.
Evaluation
To be eligible for graduation, students must achieve a minimum grade of 50% in each course and maintain an overall program average of 60%. In addition, students must successfully pass all four field placements to meet the program completion requirements.
Graduation Credential
SIIT Diploma
Career Opportunities
Career Opportunities & Salaries
Graduates can expect to work as social and community service workers (NOC 42201). Social and community service workers administer and implement a variety of social assistance programs and community services and assist clients to deal with personal and social problems. They are employed by social services and government agencies, mental health agencies, group homes, shelters, substance abuse centers, school boards, correctional facilities and other establishments. Most employers require a criminal record and vulnerable sector check.
Example job titles include addiction worker, community development worker, mental health worker, outreach worker, etc.
Further Education
Graduates of the program can further their education through a university and can submit a request for a transfer credit review.
Saskatchewan Indian Institute of Technologies
Head Office
Suite 100-103A Packham Avenue
Asimakaniseekan Askiy Reserve
Saskatoon, SK S7N 4K4
306-244-4444