Interprofessional Mental Health and Addictions, Post-Degree Diploma

The Interprofessional Mental Health and Addictions Post-Degree (IMHA) diploma will provide students with advanced knowledge and skills to work collaboratively with people affected by mental health and/or addiction/substance use challenges. Applying the Psychosocial Recovery framework, students will gain the necessary knowledge, theoretical frameworks, assessment skills, and counselling interventions to help individuals and their families navigate recovery from mental health and addiction challenges. There is a strong emphasis on applied learning and students will gain skills in motivational interviewing, cognitive behavioral therapy, and stage-wise case-management.

Blended delivery

Using a combination of online and seminar class styles, this graduate program offers a variety of opportunities to apply skills and knowledge for further career advancement in the area of mental health and addictions.

Who are our students?

You’ll study with students from a variety of disciplines:

• University students pursuing psychology, social work, child and youth care, education, and nursing
• Recent graduates from the humanities wanting professional qualifications
• Working professionals wanting to upgrade their education
• Professionals seeking re-training

Career options

Our students are recognized for their specialized training enabling them to work with interprofessional teams addressing the complex needs of individuals and families with mental health and addiction challenges. IMHA graduates are working in diverse settings such as group homes, treatment centers, community agencies, assertive community teams and hospitals.

Next offering

The program starts in September. The practicum component will include 20 hours per week at a practice site plus seminar and online learning time. You’ll attend approximately fifteen mandatory face-to-face seminars, combined with online learning at the college over the year. All students must attend the orientation.

This program is available through distance delivery across Canada and internationally. Distance students who do not live on Vancouver Island may not be expected to attend all the face-to-face seminars. Consult the Program Leader for more information.

HHS Student Handbook 

Current information for School of Health and and Human Services students and IMHA specific handbook.