November 18, 2025 | Quebec

Skills That Shape Compassionate Counsellors

Special care counsellors combine relational and analytical skills to support individuals experiencing adaptation or behavioural challenges.

At CDI College, the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program prepares students to apply effective intervention strategies that help children, youth, adults, and seniors achieve greater autonomy and inclusion in their daily environments.

Blending Knowledge, Empathy, and Action

Students acquire both technical expertise and relational competencies throughout their training. They learn to:

• establish professional, client-centred working relationships through active listening and empathy;
• communicate clearly and respectfully with clients, families and professionals;
• observe, analyze, and assess individual and social needs;
• apply ethical principles and maintain confidentiality in all interventions.

This balanced combination of theory and practice allows graduates to design individualized, respectful, and effective intervention plans.

Developing Analytical and Practical Skills

The curriculum provides students with tools to:

• analyze behaviour and understand the psychosocial factors influencing adaptation;
• plan and implement personalized intervention strategies;
• facilitate educational and group activities that foster development and participation;
• manage crises with calm and professionalism.

A highlight of the program is its hands-on learning, with 990 hours of supervised field placement that allow students to put theory into practice in real work settings.

Collaboration: A Core Professional Value

In special care counselling, teamwork is key. CDI College emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, training students to work effectively alongside teachers, psychoeducators, nurses, social workers, and community professionals.

This collaborative approach ensures that interventions are coordinated, consistent, and adapted to each client’s needs and environment — essential qualities in today’s workplaces.

Field Experience: Learning by Doing

Through three field placements totalling 990 hours, students gain valuable experience in schools, community centres, rehabilitation facilities, and social or mental health services.

They learn to adapt their approach for various client groups — from children and teens in difficulty to adults in rehabilitation, older adults, and individuals living with intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, or social and emotional challenges.

This immersive experience develops professional judgment, autonomy, and confidence in diverse contexts.

A Training Pathway That Builds Real-World Confidence

By integrating theory, practice, and collaboration, the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College trains students for meaningful roles as professionals committed to supporting adaptation, inclusion, and community participation.

👉 Learn more about the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College

FAQ

1. What skills will I gain from this program?
You’ll develop essential skills in communication, observation, planning, crisis management, and teamwork, all of which are crucial to professional practice as a special care counsellor.

2. What role do field placements play in the training?
The 990 hours of field placement provide real-world experience across diverse environments, allowing you to apply theoretical knowledge in authentic professional context .

3. Why study this program at CDI College?
Because CDI College offers hands-on learning, experienced instructors, and a curriculum designed to prepare graduates for immediate employment in special care and intervention settings.