February 11, 2026 | Alberta

If you’re thinking about becoming an addictions counsellor in Ontario, you’re probably drawn to work that actually makes a difference. This field isn’t abstract. It’s real people, real struggles, and real impact. The good news is there’s a clear path to get there. Let’s break it down step by step. 

What Does an Addictions Counsellor Do? 

An addictions counsellor supports individuals who are struggling with substance use and behavioural addictions such as alcohol dependency, drug addiction, or gambling. In Ontario, addictions counsellors often: 

• Conduct client assessments 
• Develop recovery and treatment plans 
• Provide one-on-one and group counselling 
• Support relapse prevention strategies 
• Connect clients with community resources 
• Maintain case documentation and reports 

They work in a range of settings, including: 

• Community service agencies 
• Residential treatment centres 
• Hospitals 
• Mental health clinics 
• Correctional facilities 
• Outreach programs 

This career blends counselling skills, mental health knowledge, and community support work. 
 

Bonus Read: What Does an Addictions Support Worker Do on a Daily Basis?   
 

Become an Addictions Counsellor in Ontario 

Step 1: Complete a Relevant Diploma or Degree 

One of the first questions people ask is: Do you need a license to become an addictions counsellor in Ontario? In many community-based roles, addictions counsellors are not provincially licensed in the same way as psychologists or social workers. However, employers almost always require formal education. Most entry-level roles require: 

• A diploma in Addictions and Community Services Worker 
• Or a related diploma or degree in social services, mental health, or psychology 

A focused diploma program teaches: 

• Addiction theory and models of recovery 
• Counselling techniques and intervention strategies 
• Mental health fundamentals 
• Crisis intervention 
• Case management 
• Professional ethics 

Programs that include supervised practicum experience are especially valuable. Employers prefer graduates who already have real-world training. CDI College’s Addictions and Community Services Worker diploma program in Ontario is structured to combine classroom learning with practical training, preparing students for entry-level roles in addiction and community support services. 

Step 2: Gain Practical Experience 

Experience matters in this field. During your program, you’ll likely complete a field placement. This gives you hands-on exposure to real clients and real workplace environments under supervision. Practicum experience helps you: 

• Build professional confidence 
• Develop assessment and documentation skills 
• Learn ethical standards in practice 
• Create industry connections 

Many graduates begin their careers in roles such as: 

• Addictions support worker 
• Community services worker 
• Residential counsellor 
• Case aide 
• Outreach support worker 

These roles build the experience needed to grow within the field. 
 

Bonus Read: Addictions Worker vs Social Worker: What Are the Key Differences?   

Step 3: Consider Professional Certification 

Although certification is not mandatory for all positions, many addictions professionals in Ontario pursue credentials to strengthen their credibility. The Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF) offers nationally recognized designations such as: 

• Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor 
• International Certified Alcohol and Drug Counsellor 
• Associate Addictions Counsellor 

Students enrolled in CDI College’s Addictions and Community Services Worker diploma program may apply for Associate Addictions Counsellor (AAC) status while still in school or shortly after graduation as they work toward meeting full certification requirements. AAC is not a certification, but it demonstrates that a student or graduate is actively progressing toward professional standards within the addictions counselling field. Certification pathways typically require a combination of: 

• Education 
• Supervised work experience 
• Examination 
• Adherence to ethical standards 

For many professionals, certification supports career advancement and professional recognition. 

Step 4: Develop Key Skills for Success 

Beyond education, strong addictions counsellors build practical skills that employers value. These include: 

• Active listening and communication 
• Crisis intervention 
• Cultural awareness and sensitivity 
• Trauma-informed care 
• Professional documentation 
• Boundary setting and ethical practice 

Good training programs intentionally build these skills through role-playing, case studies, and supervised placement. 

Career Outlook for Addictions Counsellors in Ontario 

Demand for addictions and community services professionals continues to grow across Ontario. Several factors contribute to this: 

• Increased awareness of mental health and substance use disorders 
• Public health initiatives addressing the opioid crisis 
• Expansion of community-based recovery programs 
• Greater integration of mental health and addiction services 

As communities invest more in support services, the need for trained addictions professionals remains strong. 

Choosing the Right Addictions Counselling Program 

If you’re researching how to become an addictions counsellor in Ontario, your education choice matters. Look for a program that offers: 

• Industry-relevant curriculum 
• Supervised practicum placement 
• Clear pathways toward professional recognition 
• Experienced instructors 
• Career-focused training 

CDI College’s Addictions and Community Services Worker diploma program in Ontario is designed to prepare students for entry-level roles in addictions support while providing the opportunity to apply for AAC status during or shortly after the program. 

Final Thoughts 

Becoming an addictions counsellor in Ontario typically involves: 

• Completing a relevant diploma or degree 
• Gaining supervised practical experience 
• Considering professional certification 
• Continuing to build experience and skills 

If you’re motivated to help individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives, this field offers meaningful work and long-term career potential. The first step is choosing the right education to build both knowledge and confidence for the path ahead.