November 3, 2025 | Quebec

A Meaningful, People-Focused Education

In today’s complex world, the role of special care counsellors has never been more critical. These professionals support individuals of all ages who face emotional, behavioural, or developmental challenges. With empathy, patience, and practical skills, they help people improve their well-being and achieve greater independence.

The Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College prepares students to make a lasting difference in the lives of others through hands-on learning, expert instruction, and immersive field experience.

A Career That Puts People First

Choosing a career in special care counselling means dedicating yourself to helping others reach their full potential. Special care counsellors work with individuals experiencing a wide range of challenges, including:

• social, emotional, or behavioural difficulties;
• developmental or learning disorders;
• mental health challenges;
• or a loss of autonomy related to aging.

Graduates can work in a variety of environments, including schools, community organizations, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, long-term care facilities, group homes, and correctional institutions, among others.

Their mission? To provide care, understanding, and structure — helping each person build confidence, self-esteem, and independence. It’s a profession that requires compassion, creativity, and commitment, but it also brings immense personal and professional satisfaction.

What You’ll Learn at CDI College

The Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to support individuals and groups through personalized interventions and educational activities.

You will learn, among other things, how to:

• assess individual and group needs and strengths;
• design and implement intervention plans;
• respond effectively in crises;
• collaborate with families and interdisciplinary teams;
• lead activities that promote personal and social development.

Through a hands-on training approach and 990 hours of field experience, you’ll gain real-world insight and confidence. These placements allow you to apply what you’ve learned, explore different work environments, and build professional connections before you graduate.

The program comprises 2,085 instructional hours, including 990 hours of supervised fieldwork, and can typically be completed in under two years, depending on your class schedule.

Strong Career Opportunities Across Quebec

Trained special care counsellors are in high demand throughout Quebec. Employers in schools, healthcare facilities, and community organizations are seeking skilled professionals to provide individualized support and guidance to people with diverse needs.

Career opportunities include, but are not limited to:

• special care counsellor in schools;
• rehabilitation assistant;
• youth or family support worker;
• counsellor in community or healthcare settings;
• support worker for seniors or people with disabilities.

These roles are rewarding, stable, and offer excellent opportunities for both personal and professional growth.

Why Study at CDI College?

Studying at CDI College means choosing a learning environment that values your success and personal development. Our dedicated instructors are passionate professionals who share their knowledge, experience, and commitment to helping others.

CDI College stands out for:

• flexible class schedules, which make it easier to balance school, work, and family life — with this program offered in the morning, afternoon, or evening;
• personalized support at every stage of your studies;
• hands-on field placements, which help you transition smoothly into the workforce;
• a caring and inclusive learning environment, at the heart of all our programs.

Is This Program Right for You?

The Special Care Counselling program is designed for people who want, among other things, to:

• help others overcome personal or social challenges;
• work with individuals of all ages and backgrounds;
• use empathy and communication skills to make a difference;
• grow in a dynamic field where every day brings new experiences.

Take the First Step Toward a Career That Makes a Difference

If you’re looking for a rewarding, people-focused profession, the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College is an excellent choice.

Learn how your compassion, interpersonal skills, and sense of purpose can lead to a fulfilling and meaningful career.

👉 Learn more about the Special Care Counselling – JNC.1U program at CDI College

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the program?
The program includes 2,085 instructional hours, with 990 hours of supervised fieldwork.

Where do students complete their field placements?
Placements occur in diverse settings, including schools, community organizations, rehabilitation centers, healthcare facilities, senior residences, and correctional institutions, among others. CDI College helps students find the placement that best matches their goals.

What qualities help you succeed in this field?
Empathy, patience, communication, and teamwork are key to success as a special care counsellor. The ability to adapt and remain calm in challenging situations is also an asset.