September 29, 2025 | Manitoba

Addiction is not just a personal struggle, it’s a community issue that affects families, workplaces, and society as a whole. In Manitoba, and especially in Winnipeg, the demand for skilled addiction counsellors has been steadily increasing. With the rising awareness of mental health and substance use challenges, there is a growing recognition that individuals need qualified professionals to guide them toward recovery. 
 

If you’re living in Manitoba and feel called to this line of work, you may be asking: what exactly does addiction counselling involve, what training is required, and how do you begin? The path is not always straightforward, but with the right mix of education, supervised practice, and certification, you can move into this meaningful career. 
 

This guide will break down what addiction counselling is in the Manitoba context, the kind of training and certification you’ll need, and how CDI College Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma program in Winnipeg can help you start building the right foundation. 

What Is Addiction Counselling in Manitoba? 

Addiction counsellors play a critical role in helping people manage and overcome dependencies on substances or harmful behaviours. Their work includes assessing client needs, developing treatment plans, offering one-on-one or group counselling, and connecting clients with community resources. 

In Manitoba, the title “addiction counsellor” may sometimes overlap with terms like “addictions worker” or “community support worker.” The responsibilities, however, go beyond just listening to clients. Counsellors provide structured interventions, apply evidence-based strategies, and guide individuals through the long process of recovery. 

This is sensitive work that requires not just technical knowledge, but also empathy, patience, and resilience. For Manitobans considering this path, the training prepares you not only to understand the science behind addiction but also to handle the human side of recovery with care and professionalism. 

 
Bonus Read: What Does an Addictions Worker Do? 

Training and Education Requirements 

If your goal is to work in this field, you’ll need to build a strong combination of formal learning and practical experience. Employers and certification bodies in Manitoba look for the following: 

Formal Education 
 

Addiction counselling requires post-secondary training. Programs should cover key areas such as: 
 

• Theories of addiction and recovery 
• Ethics and professional standards 
• Pharmacology and the effects of substances 
• Counselling and intervention strategies 
• Relapse prevention techniques 
• Case management and record keeping 
   

While many higher-level roles ask for a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or counselling, starting with a diploma program is an effective way to gain entry into the field. 

Supervised Clinical Experience 
 

Hands-on learning is just as important as classroom theory. Most programs require practicums where students gain supervised experience working with clients. This allows future counsellors to practice communication skills, apply counselling techniques, and understand the realities of frontline work. 

Certification 
 

In Canada, the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF) is the main professional body. Its designations, such as Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor (CCAC), are widely recognized by employers. Certification requires proof of formal education, supervised hours, and successful completion of an exam. 

Additional Training 
 

Complementary certifications are also highly valued. Training in First Aid/CPR, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training (ASIST), and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention can prepare you to respond in crisis situations and show employers that you are ready for real-world challenges. 

By combining these elements, you’ll be well on your way to meeting the expectations of employers and certification bodies in Manitoba. 

Addiction Counselling Training in Winnipeg: The CDI Program 

One of the most direct ways to begin your journey is through the Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma offered at CDI College’s Winnipeg campus. 

Program Overview 
 

• Length: 52 weeks (one year of training) 
• Practicum: 300 hours of supervised community placement 
• Curriculum: Addiction fundamentals, pharmacology, relapse prevention, ethics, group facilitation, case management, and crisis intervention 
• Industry Certifications: First Aid/CPR, ASIST suicide intervention, and Nonviolent Crisis Intervention 
• Career Services: Guidance on resumes and interview preparation 

Alignment with Certification 
 

This program is structured to meet the educational requirements for CACCF certification, making it an excellent first step toward professional recognition. Graduates are eligible to apply for the CCAC exam, provided they also complete the required supervised clinical hours. 

Entry-Level Opportunities 
 

Upon completion, graduates are prepared for positions such as addictions worker, outreach counsellor, case manager, or community support worker. These roles are crucial for gaining experience and building the hours needed for full certification. 

Bonus Read: How to Become an Addiction Worker in Winnipeg, Manitoba? 

Career Outlook in Manitoba 

The demand for qualified addiction counsellors in Manitoba is strong. Winnipeg, as the province’s largest city, is home to numerous community agencies, treatment centres, and non-profit organizations where trained professionals are needed. 

Addiction counsellors may work in: 
 

• Public and private treatment facilities 
• Community mental health agencies 
• Schools and youth programs 
• Correctional facilities 
• Outreach and non-profit organizations 

The daily work is diverse. A counsellor might spend part of the day meeting clients one-on-one, another part leading group sessions, and the rest coordinating with other healthcare or social service providers. This variety keeps the work challenging and meaningful, but it also requires adaptability and strong organizational skills. 

Another important factor is the collaborative nature of the work. Addiction rarely exists in isolation, so counsellors often partner with social workers, psychologists, and healthcare staff to ensure clients receive comprehensive support. For those who thrive in team settings and want to contribute directly to community well-being, this career is deeply rewarding. 

Why Start with CDI College? 

For Manitobans seeking a way into this career, CDI College provides a structured and supportive entry point. Here’s why it stands out: 
 

• A focused diploma program that can be completed in one year 
• A 300-hour practicum that ensures real-world supervised experience 
• Built-in certifications that add credibility and employability 
• A curriculum aligned with CACCF national standards 
• Career services to help graduates transition into the workforce 
   

While advanced roles may eventually require further education, CDI’s diploma is a practical first step. It offers both the knowledge and the experience you’ll need to start working in the field and progressing toward certification. 

Final Thoughts 

Addiction counselling in Manitoba is a demanding but highly meaningful career. For those living in Winnipeg who want to make a difference, the path involves formal training, hands-on experience, and certification. 

The Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma Program at CDI College offers a strong starting point. With its comprehensive curriculum, practicum placement, and alignment with CACCF certification standards, it prepares you for entry-level roles and lays the groundwork for professional growth. 

If you feel called to help others rebuild their lives and support healthier communities, this training path can open the door to a purposeful career in Winnipeg and beyond.