Assiniboine delivers a tuition-free, Applied Counselling certificate program in Brandon

Assiniboine Community College is offering a tuition-free Applied Counselling Skills certificate program, providing an opportunity to Indigenous learners living off-reserve to develop proficiency in basic counselling skills.

The program, commencing in September 2022, is funded through a partnership with the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples (CAP). Students in the program will receive 425 academic hours of in-class learning at the Victoria Avenue East campus in Brandon, followed by a 100-hour paid practicum.

“We are excited to provide this opportunity, made possible with funding from CAP, enabling students to focus on their studies without the burden of tuition and textbook costs,” said Michael Cameron, Dean of Community Development at Assiniboine. “Partnerships like this make it possible for Assiniboine to offer educational opportunities to individuals that might have not otherwise had them.”

The Applied Counselling Skills program is designed to develop learners' understanding of general counselling, cross-cultural communication and family and youth issues. The program provides culturally relevant and recognized training for para-professional counsellors working in health, education, private social services, government counselling, corrections and First Nations.

“Opportunities for employment in this field are expanding in line with increased self-awareness, both of individuals and also under-represented groups,” said Ben Welsh, Coordinator, Credential Programs in Assiniboine’s Centre of Continuing Studies. “Graduates can find a broad range of entry-level employment opportunities in fields such as family services, health care organizations, youth-service organizations, educational services, caregiving and other similar community service organizations.”

The program is open to 25 students. Those interested in applying must first attend a free online program information session, with the first session taking place on August 3.

For more program details and to register for an info session, visit assiniboine.net/TFappliedcounselling.