September 6, 2009 | Manitoba

Coping with the challenges of addiction and mental illness can be overwhelming for patients and their families, which is why professional and committed support can make the difference between a successful outcome and a tragic one.

Social service workers help a lot of people find ways to turn their lives around and families to heal. To do this, practitioners have to be well trained and have a broad knowledge of resources that are available for their clients. CDI College Winnipeg offers the Addictions and Community Services Worker (ACSW) program.

Students in this program develop the essential skills needed to assist clients living with a substance abuse problem. They develop a fundamental understanding of psychology and pharmacology. They also learn about group work for social services, effective use of interviewing techniques and how to promote healthier lifestyles for chemically dependent individuals.

Most importantly, ACSW students develop an essential knowledge of addiction factors. They learn about the basic pharmacological nature and effects of a range of psychoactive chemicals. They explore and challenge the myths surrounding substance abuse and the cost to society in terms of economics and social burden.

Graduates from this program may find employment in a range of social service settings, including child and youth services, family social service agencies, group homes, correctional facilities and mental health centers. Also, graduates meet the formal training component of the requirements necessary to sit the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation certification exam.