Build a Career Supporting Mental Wellness and Community Empowerment

Program Overview

The Social & Mental Services Program at Paramount Polytechnic is a 1-year certificate program designed to prepare students for front-line roles in the growing fields of mental health, social support, and community care.

Combining theory and hands-on learning, this program equips students with the skills to support individuals and communities through crisis intervention, counseling strategies, mental health advocacy, and client-centered communication. Graduates are prepared for meaningful work in both clinical and non-clinical settings, contributing to better mental wellness outcomes across diverse populations.

Why Choose This Program?

• Hands-On Crisis & Counseling Training
• Mental Health Advocacy & Empowerment Focus
• Ideal for Passionate, Empathetic Learners
• Work in a High-Demand, Purpose-Driven Field
• Excellent Pathway to Social Work or Psychology Careers

What You’ll Learn

• Introduction to Mental Health & Illness
• Crisis Intervention & De-escalation Techniques
• Foundations in Counseling & Interviewing Skills
• Cultural Sensitivity and Ethical Practice
• Case Documentation & Support Planning
• Community Advocacy & Social Policy Awareness
• Interpersonal Communication and Boundaries
• Working in Multidisciplinary Healthcare Environments

Program Details

Length: 1 Year (Full-time)
Delivery: In-Person with Simulated Roleplay Labs
Credential: Certificate in Social & Mental Services
Tuition: $16,500 (Includes books & materials)

Application Fee: $170 CAD (Non-refundable)
Housing: Not included

Career Opportunities

Graduates are prepared for entry-level and support roles in:

• Hospitals & Mental Health Facilities
• Community Health Centres
• Schools and Youth Programs
• Nonprofits and Crisis Shelters
• Correctional and Rehabilitation Facilities
• Government & Social Services Departments

Common job titles include:
• Mental Health Support Worker
• Crisis Intervention Worker
• Community Services Worker
• Case Aide or Program Assistant
• Addictions Support Worker

Admission Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Demonstrated interest in mental health or community services
• English Language Proficiency (CLB 6 or IELTS 5.5 recommended)
• A written personal statement or interview may be required

Practical Training

Throughout the program, students will engage in:
• Roleplay and Scenario-Based Labs
• Case Note Writing & Simulation Exercises
• Group Facilitation Techniques
• Supervised Community Projects or Volunteer Placement (where available)

Student Support Services

• Mental Wellness Support & Peer Networks
• Resume & Cover Letter Coaching
• Job Search and Interview Preparation
• Guest Speakers and Industry Mentors
• Pathway Advising for Social Work, Counseling, and Psychology Degrees

Outcomes

Graduates of the Social & Mental Services program will:
• Provide empathetic, trauma-informed support in a professional setting
• Advocate for vulnerable populations with confidence and cultural competence
• Understand systems of care, and how to navigate them with clients
• Be equipped for further education in social work, mental health, or community development

Apply Today

Turn your compassion into a career. Make a difference in lives and communities by enrolling in Paramount Polytechnic’s Social & Mental Services Program.

• Apply Now
• Download Brochure
• Schedule a Campus Visit or Info Session
• Contact an Admissions Advisor

Contact Information

Paramount Polytechnic
Oyen, Alberta, Canada
Phone: 1-866-899-4912
Info@paramountpolytechnic.ca
www.paramountpolytechnic.ca/social-mental-services