Mental Health Support Certificate  Program

(12 Weeks): Instructor: Dr.  Sacha Gittens

Course Overview:

Duration: 12 Weeks
Delivery: In-Class / Online Hybrid
Format: 3 hours per week (Lecture, Group Work, and Reflection)
Target Audience: Individuals, caregivers, community leaders, and professionals seeking to understand and support mental health in personal, workplace, or community settings.

Course Outline:

12-Week Course Outline

Week 1: Introduction to Mental Health and Wellness

• Defining mental health and mental illness

• Myths, stigma, and the importance of awareness

• The mind-body connection

Week 2: Understanding the Brain and Behavior

• Basic psychology and neuroscience

• How stress and trauma affect the brain

• Emotional regulation and resilience

Week 3: Common Mental Health Disorders (Part 1)

• Anxiety, depression, and mood disorders

• Early warning signs and symptoms

• Treatment and recovery perspectives

Week 4: Common Mental Health Disorders (Part 2)

• Substance use, eating disorders, and personality disorders

• Understanding dual diagnosis

• Recovery-oriented approaches

Week 5: Trauma and Its Impact

• Types of trauma (childhood, relational, community)

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

• Trauma-informed care principles

Week 6: Mental Health Across the Lifespan

• Children and youth mental health

• Adult and workplace mental health

• Aging and mental wellness

Week 7: Cultural and Social Dimensions of Mental Health

• Mental health in diverse communities

• Cultural competence and inclusion

• Barriers to care and advocacy

Week 8: Crisis Intervention and Supportive Communication

• Active listening and empathy skills

• De-escalation and crisis response

• When and how to refer to professionals

Week 9: Self-Care and Burnout Prevention

• Managing compassion fatigue

• Building personal wellness routines

• Mindfulness, gratitude, and resilience practices

Week 10: Mental Health in the Workplace

• Identifying workplace stressors

• Creating supportive work environments

• Mental health policies and leadership roles

Week 11: Advocacy and Community Engagement

• Raising awareness and reducing stigma

• Peer support and community initiatives

• Mental health first aid principles

Week 12: Capstone Project & Certification

• Group presentations or awareness campaigns

• Reflection and personal growth plan

• Certificate ceremony and mentorship

• Learning Outcomes:

  By the end of this 12-week program, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the foundations of mental health and wellness.

  • Identify common mental health disorders and their symptoms.

  • Apply supportive communication and crisis intervention strategies.

  • Recognize stigma and promote mental health awareness.

  • Develop self-care and stress management practices.

  • Provide peer and community support ethically and effectively.

  • Advocate for inclusive and supportive environments.

Career Pathways

Graduates may pursue or enhance careers as:

• Peer Support Worker

• Community Mental Health Advocate

• Wellness Coordinator

• Ministry or Outreach Worker

• Human Services or SSW student foundation

Program Fees

• Tuition: $995 CAD

• Scholarships: Available for eligible applicants

• Payment Plans: Offered through TransformU Skills Institute