Most adults have seen TV shows like Intervention Canada, where addictions services workers step in to help save those struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. In collaboration with family members, these workers try to show the afflicted individuals that their lives can be better once they begin the path toward recovery. Assuming this type of role can help change the lives of dozens of people that they care for each day, but it can also dramatically impact the workers who are providing aid for these people.
Find the Right Program
To follow a career in this field, young adults can first find programs tailored specifically to provide an education in healthcare and social services. At Vancouver Career College, healthcare courses in the Addictions and Community Services Worker program can prepare students for a future in helping addicts overcome their disorders. Teaching the fundamentals of addiction, relapse prevention, overall human psychology and the physiological effects of substance abuse, this college program can prepare students to enter a career in group homes, drug and alcohol rehabilitation centers or child and youth service centers throughout British Columbia.
Another key component of becoming an addictions service worker is learning how to communicate effectively with others. In the program, students can take a course on interviewing techniques, which will help them understand the appropriate ways to confront various personality types and succeed in getting patients to open up to them about their inner battles with mental and physical health problems.
Volunteer
While taking courses to prepare for jobs in mental health, adults can also volunteer at rehabilitation centers to gain some real-world experience in the field. Employees who work at these types of facilities generally have volunteers shadow their routine, emphasizing observation rather than practice. Until young adults have enough education and experience in the field, it is safest for them to watch professionals do their job and learn by example.
Practicum Placement
In addition to volunteering on their own, students will be responsible for completing a practicum placement as part of the program. Students will spend a total of 200 hours, or eight weeks, at one particular treatment center, group home or school facility, further observing the way skilled experts treat their patients and provide medical assistance.
Students who have volunteer experience, a practicum placement and a strong education under their belts may have a better chance of finding a job that fulfills their passions in this particular sector of healthcare. For more information on healthcare courses like those in the Addictions and Community Services Worker program at Vancouver Career College, fill out the form on the right.