September 25, 2025 | Manitoba

For Canadians seeking a career that is both personally fulfilling and deeply needed in our communities, few paths are as impactful as that of an addictions worker/addictions support worker. In Winnipeg, and across Manitoba, the need for compassionate, skilled professionals to support individuals and families facing substance use and mental health challenges has never been greater. If you are driven by a desire to make a tangible difference, this field offers a unique opportunity to guide others toward healing and recovery. 

This blog post will explore the day-to-day role of an addictions worker, the essential skills for success, and how a program like the Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma at CDI College can equip you for this rewarding career. 

What Exactly Does an Addictions Worker Do?  

Key Responsibilities 
 

An Addictions Worker plays a crucial role in supporting individuals and families navigating the challenges of substance use and recovery. In Winnipeg, and across Manitoba, these professionals are on the front lines of community health, providing support that is both practical and deeply personal. 
 

Their role is multifaceted, combining direct client interaction with case management, advocacy, and community engagement. The following table highlights the core responsibilities, adapted from Canada’s National Occupational Classification (NOC 42201): 

Working as an Addictions Worker in Manitoba 

No two days look the same. One morning, you might be completing assessments for new clients at a community health centre. In the afternoon, you could be running a support group at a nonprofit organization. Later, you may spend time documenting client progress and coordinating with a housing caseworker. This variety means the work is rarely repetitive and always centred on building human connections. 

Where an Addictions Worker Could Work 

Addictions Workers are employed in a wide range of settings, including: 
 

• Community health centres and outreach programs 
• Residential and outpatient treatment facilities 
• Hospitals and mental health clinics 
• Correctional facilities and shelters 
• Government agencies (e.g., youth or veteran support services) 
• Indigenous-led health and wellness organizations 
   

This variety gives you the chance to choose an environment that aligns with your interests, whether that’s clinical support, community-based outreach, or working within the justice system. 

How CDI College Prepares You for Success in Winnipeg 

For those in Winnipeg considering this path, a strong educational foundation is essential. CDI College Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma Program, is designed to provide the knowledge, skills, and hands-on experience needed to succeed. 
 

This 52-week program is taught by industry-experienced instructors and covers a comprehensive curriculum that includes key areas such as:
 

• Fundamentals of Addiction and Pharmacology 
• Treatment Planning and Case File Management 
• Relapse Prevention and Intervention Strategies 
• Working with High-Risk Populations and Youth Issues 
• Ethics and Professional Communication 
   

To make graduates job-ready, the program also includes essential certifications built into the training: 
 

• Level 1 First Aid/CPR 
• ASIST (Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training) 
• Non-violent Crisis Intervention (NCI) Training 
   

A crucial component of the diploma is the 300-hour community placement, where students apply classroom learning in real-world Winnipeg settings. This practical experience builds confidence and professional connections before graduation. 
 

The program is also recognized by the Canadian Addiction Counsellors Certification Federation (CACCF). This recognition means graduates meet the education portion of CACCF certification requirements, setting them on the path toward professional credentials such as the Canadian Certified Addiction Counsellor (CCAC). While additional work experience and exams are required to earn certification, completing CDI’s program positions graduates to advance into higher-level roles and greater earning potential. 

Is a Career as an Addictions Worker Right for You? 

This career is incredibly rewarding, but it also demands specific personal qualities. If you are a person who possesses the following, you may be an excellent fit: 

• Empathy and Compassion: The ability to understand and share the feelings of others is paramount. 
• Patience and Resilience: Recovery is a journey, not a destination. Workers must be supportive through both progress and setbacks. 
• Communication is Your Bridge:  You’ll need to listen actively and communicate clearly with clients, their families, and other professionals. 
• You are a Practical Problem-Solver:: Each client’s situation is unique, requiring creative and personalized solutions. 
• Integrity is Non-Negotiable: Clients must trust you with deeply personal information. A strong ethical foundation and a commitment to confidentiality are the bedrock of the therapeutic relationship. 

If these qualities resonate with you, you may find this work incredibly fulfilling. The demand for skilled addictions workers in Winnipeg and across Canada remains strong, driven by a growing recognition of the importance of mental health and addiction services. For those with the right heart and the proper training, it represents a stable career path with the opportunity to make a tangible difference in your community every single day. 

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

Final Thoughts 

If you are ready to turn your compassion into a career, exploring the Addictions and Community Services Worker Diploma Program at CDI College’s Winnipeg campus is a powerful first step. By investing in your education, you are preparing to make a lasting, positive impact on the health and well-being of your community. Your journey toward a career built on connection and hope starts today.