Co-Occurring Disorders

Brendan Munden works with people battling co-occurring disorders. He says the Co-Occurring Disorder program gave him a new perspective on treatment. Read more...

Co-occurrence of mental health and addictions problems has emerged as a critical issue in the human service and health care fields. If you're working in these areas, equip yourself with the specialized skills to deal with co-occurring disorders with the Advanced Citation in Co-occurring Disorders from Douglas College. 

This part-time advanced citation program - the first of its kind in British Columbia - is designed for working professionals. Classroom courses are offered in the evening (6:30 - 9:30), with the possibility of occasional Saturday workshops.

What are co-occurring disorders?

The co-occurring disorders population refers to those people who have both a mental disorder and substance use disorder as per Axis 1 or Axis 11 of DSM-IV-TR. Research confirms for those with chronic and persistent mental illness a co-morbidity rate approaching 50%. In other words, if someone has such a mental disorder, there is a 50% chance that he or she also has a co-occurring addiction.

Who will benefit from this program?

This program will be especially beneficial for social workers, nurses and psychiatric nurses, psychologists, educators and people in related helping professions.

Start date & Application deadlines

There are two intakes for this program each year - January and September. Applications for the January start date must be received by November 1. Applications for the September start date must be received by June 15.

Cost

Tuition fees for this 18-credit advanced citation are approximately $2,100.

Location

As of January 2013, the Co-occurring Disorders program will be moving to the David Lam campus in Coquitlam.

How to apply

Before you apply, make sure you read the Admission Requirements in the College Calendar.

Ready to apply? Fill out an application online or in person through Application and Registration Services.

For more information

Attend an information session
Read the College Calendar
Contact the Co-occurring Disorders program