vancouver college of counsellor training · for further information, please call admissions...

For further information, please call Admissions Advising at 604-683-2442 or 1-800-667-3272

Vancouver College of Counsellor TrainingMaking Counselling Skills Public Knowledge for a Therapeutic Community

206 East 6th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5T 1J8Tel: 604-683-2442 Fax: 604-688-9001

Email: [email protected] Web: www.vcct.ca

Dear College Students,

Welcome to the Vancouver College of Counsellor Training, where many stimulating and enrichingopportunities for personal growth and professional development can be achieved.

Our diplomas, specialized certificates, and certificate programs are offered to both new students andexperienced practitioners already working in community service agencies or private practice. All programs andcourses at VCCT are available to Canadian and International Students both on-campus or through distanceeducation.

Students who enroll at VCCT may be interested in personal growth, exploring a new career, completing aCollege Diploma for it’s own value or as a step towards further University training, or to enhance and upgradetheir practitioner skills and abilities.

Courses described in this catalogue are designed to provide adequate theoretical background knowledge ofcounselling and practical skill training, which can be immediately applied to counselling situations. Our coursesare based on the most current and widely recognized research, techniques, academic and ethical standards inthe counselling field today. VCCT is accredited by the Private Career Training Institutions Agency (PCTIA) ofBritish Columbia.

Our instructors, professional and practicing psychologists, counsellors and therapists are able to use their ownpractical wisdom and insight gained throughout their careers to enrich the learning process for VCCT studentsand are dedicated to providing a meaningful educational experience.

We look forward to discussing and providing you with a pathway for personal goals, professional developmentand transferable career skills in the fascinating and rewarding field of professional counselling.

Sincerely,

Dale T. Brooks, Ph.D.; R.Psych.Director of Academic Programs, VCCT

For further information, please call Admissions Advising at 604-683-2442 or 1-800-667-3272 3

Table ofContents

About Vancouver College of Counsellor Training.................................................................................................4Frequently Asked Questions..................................................................................................................................5How do I Start?.......................................................................................................................................................6

How to Register ............. ...........................................................................................................................6Academic Requirements........................................................................................................................................7

Admission Requirements..........................................................................................................................7Maintaining Student Status ............. .........................................................................................................7Attendance ................................................................................................................................................7Participation ..............................................................................................................................................7Marking... ...................................................................................................................................................7Method of Evaluation................................................................................................................................7Professional Association Membership.....................................................................................................8Professional Liability Insurance.................. ..............................................................................................8

Diploma Program....................................................................................................................................................9Diploma of Professional Counselling .......................................................................................................9Areas of Specialized Interest ................................................. ..................................................................10Diploma of Counselling Practice ..............................................................................................................11Clinical Supervision/Internship .................................................................................................................11Volunteer Placement ......................................................................................................... .......................11

Certificate Programs...............................................................................................................................................12Addictions Worker Certificate...................................................................................................................12Family Support Worker Certificate ...........................................................................................................12Career Exploration & Development Skills Certificate.... ..........................................................................13

Distance Education ................................................................................................................................................13Who is a Typical Student of Distance Education? ..................................................................................13Distance Education Guidance & Support .............................................................................................. ..13Review Packages .....................................................................................................................................13

Course Descriptions ...............................................................................................................................................14Student Services .................................................................................................................... ................................23

Admissions................................................................................................................................................23Faculty Advising........................................................................................................................................23Library.................................................................................. ......................................................................23Personal Counselling................................................................................................................................23Bookstore ..................................................................................................................................................23Community Relations .................................................. .............................................................................23Reserve Packages....................................................................................................................................23Refresher Courses....................................................................................................................................23Tuition Assistance..................................................... ................................................................................23Student Lounge.........................................................................................................................................23

Graduation ..............................................................................................................................................................24Career Outcomes ................... ................................................................................................................................25Tuition & Fees.........................................................................................................................................................26

Other Related Fees ................................................................................................................... ...............26Vancouver College of Counsellor Training Directory............................................................................................27

Campus Location......................................................................................................................................27Administration ...........................................................................................................................................27Request a Brochure............ ......................................................................................................................27

Revised April 20th, 2010


About Vancouver College OfCounsellor Training

The Vancouver College of Counsellor Training (VCCT) is a private, post-secondary institution dedicated toproviding training opportunities for professional development, personal growth and transferable skills in the fieldof professional counselling. VCCT is PCTIA accredited and a member of the Better Business Bureau (BBB).

Our Mission

To provide opportunities for students to learn current treatments provided by practitioners from a variety oftraining backgrounds and areas of expertise, so that these students may contribute to and participate in theprofession of counselling.

Our Philosophy

VCCT is committed to offering an undergraduate level program in applied counselling skills that is accessible toall students with a genuine interest in furthering the personal growth of themselves and others, while maintainingthe highest possible academic, ethical and professional standards relevant to the counselling field.

This philosophy is followed so that students can learn to develop effective treatment methods and furtherincrease the effectiveness of these methods by sharing and learning from peers and instructors within astructure of reporting and evaluation.

Our Vision

“Making Counselling Skills Public Knowledge for a Therapeutic Community”

When students are given opportunities to gain knowledge of and develop counselling skills and procedures, theyare able to provide a positive influence on the lives of others.

Our Approach

The VCCT curriculum offers a diploma, areas of specialized interest and certificate programs enabling studentsto pursue their personal achievements and educational goals according to their interests and abilities.

Our Goals:

1. To give students the opportunity to explore a new career choice.2. To give students the knowledge and skills needed to become a Professional Counsellor.3. To offer current practitioners the option to upgrade their skills and abilities.

The Vancouver College of Counsellor Training provides education based on clinically sound, eclectic andmulticultural approaches to counselling. VCCT instruction encourages research-based techniques; by-passingwhat might be called fringe or controversial methods. Self-awareness work and the acquisition of skills throughpractice exercises are fundamental components of all courses at the Vancouver College of Counsellor Training.


Frequently AskedQuestions

What are the admission requirements?

• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good written and verbal skills in English• Application Form reviewed and approved

Who is a typical student?

Many students at VCCT are mature individuals who may have been away from a classroom setting for severalyears. They are people who have encountered a variety of life experiences and have found that friends and/oracquaintances often feel safe to approach them with their problems. They view VCCT training as an opportunityto acquire practical skills in order to become professional counsellors.

How can I enroll?

Please refer to “How Do I Start”, on the following page for enrollment instructions.

Who do I speak with for information on the programs offered at VCCT?

Students may call the Admission Department and speak with an Advisor for information.

Are the text and materials included in the tuition fee?

Yes. All text and materials required are included in the tuition fee.

Who do I speak with for assistance during my program?

You may call to arrange an appointment with an Admissions Advisor to discuss program or course issues,educational goals, or career planning. Instructors are available to provide students with support and direction.

What is the Student Reference Manual?

The student reference manual will guide you through the phases of your program and provide informationpertaining to academic policies, administrative policies, clinical supervision policies, student services and codeof conduct.

Where can I get information about financial aid?

Financial aid is offered through: Student Loans, HRDC, WCB, Band Funding, Student Line of Credit throughFinancial Institutions etc. Contact the Admissions Department and speak with an Advisor for further information.


How Do I Start?

Registration is accepted on a first-come, first served basis and is complete when full course payment orverification of funding is received.

STEP 1 - Call the Admissions Department and speak with an Advisor.

Vancouver Campus Fax: 604-683-2442 or toll free 1-800-667-3272 (Canada & International)

Distance Education is offered at VCCT.

STEP 2 Complete the Application Form and submit a $100.00 non-refundable registration fee by mailusing the prepaid envelope provided or come in person. Check the Campus Course Schedule inyour Brochure package for start dates.

STEP 3 - Receive your “Letter of Acceptance” from VCCT.

STEP 4 - Register. Contact an Admissions Advisor to complete the Registration Form and finalize courseselections. You will receive a copy of your Registration Form and program schedule.

STEP 5 - Provide tuition or approval of source funding and begin your period of study.

HOW TO APPLY:

Phone: To apply by phone, contact an Admissions Advisor. (See step one for contact information)

Fax: To apply by fax, complete the Application Form and fax it to the Admissions Department.

Vancouver Campus 604-688-9001

Online: To apply online, go to www.vcct.ca, click on the Admissions link, complete and submit theApplication Form.

Mail: To apply by mail, complete the Application Form and mail to 206 East 6th Avenue,Vancouver, B.C. V5T 1J8.

In person: To apply in person, please bring your completed Application Form. If you require assistance atany time filling out the Application Form, please call 604-683-2442 and speak with an Advisor.Office hours are 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday.

NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT:

Please submit a cheque, money order or credit card payable to the Vancouver College of Counsellor Training.This non-refundable deposit is required in order to process your Application Form. If you have applied online,over the phone or via fax, please use the prepaid envelope provided to you in your brochure package and mailthe deposit accordingly.


Academic Requirements

Admission Requirements

• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application Form reviewed and approved

A review of the application may take place for any one or more of the following circumstances:• Past or current substance abuse or addiction• Criminal record• Current or past psychiatric hospitalization,

diagnosis, medication, suicidal tendencies, orunresolved crises

Maintaining Student StatusThe requirements for maintaining student status are outlined in the Student Reference Manual. It is mandatorythat on-campus students complete all assignments and exams, participate in a positive manner during class andfulfill attendance requirements. Distance education students are required to successfully complete theirassignments within the administrative deadlines specified on their assignment sheet unless they arrange for anextension with the Admissions Department.

AttendanceFull attendance is required at VCCT. To facilitate class planning and to be courteous, students are to leave amessage for instructor(s) at reception if he or she will be late, absent or require an early dismissal from classwith a valid reason. Instructors will record lateness on class attendance sheets. A deduction of 1% of thestudents’ grade will result for every hour missed to a total of 4% on any one day. As per Student LoanRegulations, any course with lateness or absences totalling 12 hours will result in an automatic repeat of thecourse or withdrawal from the program depending on the student’s individual attendance record. Students mayopt to repeat or refresh any course, provided seating is available, at a discounted rate to enhance their ownlearning. Students are put on a wait list where class size is full.

ParticipationPositive, appropriate and respectful behaviour and speech is required when participating in any classdiscussions, debates or projects.

MarkingAll courses are marked with a standard letter grade and/or percentage. In the event of an “Incomplete” for an oncampus course, the student may repeat the course or submit the necessary assignment(s). A “No Pass” mark isassigned when the student does not complete the course requirements or requests a withdrawal from thecourse. When distance education course assignments are not completed within the three-week period, thestudent may request an extension from the Student Records and Distant Education Coordinator. However,before the extension is granted, financial aid requirements, if necessary, will have to be considered. In the eventthere is a dispute over a mark/grade given by an instructor, the student can report this dispute to the Director ofAcademic Programs who will review and determine the final mark/grade.

Method of EvaluationThe method of evaluation for all VCCT programs and courses is based upon quality of completed assignments,exams and demonstrated skills such as understanding the course objectives and concepts.

In addition, students will be evaluated on their counselling techniques and skills. In practicum courses andclinical supervision, evaluation is on-going through client and instructor feedback and case conferencing. AllVCCT course assignments and evaluations are designed as learning experiences.


Academic Requirementscont.

Professional Association Membership

Monthly supervision of clinical work with clients is required of students/interns enrolled in the Diploma ofCounselling Practice. The student/intern at this level is obligated to become a member of an approvedassociation. (e.g., Canadian Professional Counsellors Association – CPCA)

Professional associations uphold counselling standards, provide on-going learning opportunities, enablestudents and graduates to remain involved and network with their colleagues in the helping professions andprotect the public by monitoring and investigating complaints. An approved association must be a non-profitsociety having rigorous membership criteria, criminal records check, a complaint and disciplinary procedure, anda code of ethics designed for the protection of the public seeking help.

VCCT graduates may be eligible for membership in the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association, whichentitles the use of the designation “Registered Professional Counsellor” (R.P.C.) upon completion of ClinicalSupervision. The “Registered Professional Counsellor” designation is not a legislated license, but rather aqualified membership in a professional association, which provides the member with insurance and otherbenefits.

Professional Liability Insurance

Professional liability insurance is a standard component of professional counselling practice. VCCT studentsenrolled in the Diploma of Counselling Practice required to hold professional liability insurance. The fee isapproximately $250/year. This protects both counsellor and client in all counselling situations such as studentpractice exercises, volunteer work, agency placement and intern private practice. Interns completing theirClinical Supervision towards their Diploma of Counselling Practice and graduates of VCCT may obtainprofessional liability coverage through their membership in the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.


Diploma Program

DIPLOMA OF PROFESSIONAL COUNSELLING

Formats Available:

AM – 8:30 - 12:30pm Monday – FridayPM – 1:00 - 5:00pm Monday – FridayOn-campus or through distance educationMonthly start dates available

Admission Requirements:• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application form reviewed and approved

A review of the application may take place for anyone or more of the following circumstances:• Past or current substance abuse or addiction• Criminal record• Current or past psychiatric hospitalization,


An interview and/or submission of reference lettersmay be required by the Admissions Department.

Overview:

The Diploma of Professional Counselling consistsof 16 courses over a 52-week period of study.There are 10 required courses and 6 electivecourses to be completed, which will grant studentswith a Diploma of Professional Counselling.

The following schedule of 16 courses ispresently offered on campus, which includesthe six currently available electives listedbelow:

TEN REQUIRED COURSES:

PPD - 600 Personal & Professional Developmentof the Counsellor

MOD- 600 Models of CounsellingCSM - 600 Case Study Approaches to Models of

CounsellingCCS - 600 Clinical Counselling SkillsASC - 600 Advanced Counselling SkillsINS - 600 Integrative Counselling SkillsPSD - 600 Psychosocial DevelopmentIPP - 600 Introduction to PsychopathologySAB - 600 Sexual Abuse CounsellingSUB - 600 Substance Abuse Counselling

SIX ELECTIVE COURSES OFFERED ON CAMPUS:

CBC - 600 Introduction to Cognitive BehaviouralCounselling

IFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingGPS - 600 Group Process & Support SkillsLAR - 600 Listening, Asserting & Resolving

ConflictLGC - 600 Loss & Grief CounsellingGES - 600 Gestalt Counselling Skills

OTHER ELECTIVE COURSES:

Students interested in a specialized area ofcounselling may select 6 electives from thefollowing list below, to complete the required 16courses for the diploma. Please see next page forAreas of Specialized Interest (examples ofgrouped electives).

ACS - 600 Aboriginal Counselling SkillsCAT - 600 Clinical Art TherapyCCO - 600 Introduction to Career CounsellingCIC - 600 Chronic Illness CounsellingCIS - 600 Critical Incident Stress DebriefingCPD - 600 Counselling Practice DevelopmentCSC - 600 Case Study Approaches to Career CounsellingCSF - 600 Case Study Approaches to Family CounsellingEAT - 600 Counselling of Eating DisordersFAM - 600 Family Violence CounsellingFOO - 600 Family of Origin ExplorationsGAC - 600 Gambling Addiction CounsellingICC - 600 Issues in Cross-Cultural CounsellingICS - 600 Introduction to Counselling SeniorsIPR - 600 Issues in Prison ReleaseMCS - 600 Mentored Counselling Skills

PracticumPHM - 600 Pharmacology for CounsellorsSAS - 600 Specialized Approaches to Sexual Abuse

CounsellingSCI - 600 Suicide & Crisis Intervention SkillsSSA - 600 Specialized Approaches to Substance

Abuse Counselling

Notes:GES-600, GPS-600 & GAC-600 offered on-campusonly. Above electives will have to be taken throughdistance education if not available on-campus.Distance education students can choose any 6 of theelective courses.


Diploma Program Cont.

AREAS OF SPECIALIZED INTEREST

Formats When Available:

On-campus or through distance educationMonthly start dates available

Admission Requirements:

• Completion of 10 required courses from theDiploma of Professional Counselling orpermission from the Director of AcademicPrograms

• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application Form reviewed and approved




Overview:

The following Areas of Specialized Interest areoffered to students who want to pursue a more in-depth study of a specific area of counselling andupon completion will receive a Diploma ofProfessional Counselling & an Area of SpecializedInterest Acknowledgement.

Aboriginal Counselling

ACS - 600 Aboriginal Counselling SkillsLGC - 600 Loss & Grief CounsellingSAB - 600 Sexual Abuse CounsellingSUB - 600 Substance Abuse CounsellingFAM - 600 Family Violence CounsellingSCI - 600 Suicide & Crisis Intervention Skills

Family and Community Counselling

LAR - 600 Listening, Asserting & ResolvingConflict

ICC - 600 Issues in Cross-Cultural CounsellingCSF - 600 Case Study Approaches to Family

CounsellingFAM - 600 Family Violence CounsellingFOO - 600 Family of Origin ExplorationsIFC - 600 Introduction to Family Counselling

Prison Release Counselling

CCO - 600 Introduction to Career CounsellingIPR - 600 Issues in Prison ReleaseCIS - 600 Critical Incident Stress DebriefingFAM - 600 Family Violence CounsellingFOO - 600 Family of Origin ExplorationsSCI - 600 Suicide & Crisis Intervention Skills

Seniors Counselling

LAR - 600 Listening, Asserting & ResolvingConflict

LGC - 600 Loss & Grief CounsellingICS - 600 Introduction to Counselling SeniorsCIC - 600 Chronic Illness CounsellingIFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingSCI - 600 Suicide & Crisis Intervention Skills

Sexual Abuse Counselling

SAB - 600 Sexual Abuse CounsellingCAT - 600 Clinical Art TherapyCIS - 600 Critical Incident Stress DebriefingIFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingSAS - 600 Specialized Approaches to Sexual Abuse CounsellingSCI - 600 Suicide & Crisis Intervention Skills

Substance Abuse Counselling

SUB - 600 Substance Abuse CounsellingCBC - 600 Introduction to Cognitive

Behavioural CounsellingICC - 600 Issues in Cross-Cultural CounsellingFOO - 600 Family of Origin ExplorationsIFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingSSA - 600 Specialized Approaches to

Substance Abuse Counselling


Diploma Program Cont.

DIPLOMA OF COUNSELLING PRACTICE

Formats Available:Off-campus Internship

Prerequisites:• Diploma of Professional Counselling or

equivalent• Good verbal and written skills in English• Psychological inventory• Professional liability insurance• Professional association membership

(i.e. CPCA)• Two letters of recommendation from

instructors. Additional letters ofrecommendation from specific individuals maybe required for Specialized CertificatePrograms

• Approval from the Director of AcademicPrograms

• Criminal record check

Requirements:• Internship/practicum consisting of 24 months

clinically supervised by a VCCT approvedsupervisor.

• A minimum of 4 counselling sessions permonth from the 3rd month onward as well as 2hours of clinical supervision per month.

Overview:The Diploma of Counselling Practice consists of a24-month practicum clinically supervised by anapproved VCCT supervisor. The practicum willprovide the graduate with professional standing andwill acknowledge their ability to offer independentservices to the public.Throughout 24 months of clinical supervision, theIntern fine-tunes the many counselling skills andtechniques learned during the earlier studies. Withconsistent support and direction from the ClinicalSupervisor, the Intern develops seasonedapproaches to real life situations in a maturingdevelopment of therapeutic work with clients.Internship Options:Interns may opt to participate in any combination ofthe following Internship formats as available.• Private Practice Development• Volunteer or Remunerated Placement within

an Agency or Clinic• Volunteer and Remunerated Internship at the

VCCT Clinic (must be on approved list)

Clinical Supervision/Internship

Interns must conduct a minimum of four counsellingsessions per month from the third month onward.Interns will engage in a minimum of two hours ofscheduled case conferencing each month and willimmediately teleconference with the ClinicalSupervisor about any crisis situations. During caseconferencing, tapes or verbatim transcripts ofcounselling sessions may be required as well ascase histories of new clients. The Intern will receivefeedback on counselling style and choice ofinterventions. Case conferencing will also includediscussion of treatment planning for clients as wellas transference and counter-transference issues.Clients may complete “Counsellor Assessment”feedback sheets, which are given to the Intern andpresented to the Clinical Supervisor for discussion.

An Intern has up to one year from the date ofenrollment in the Diploma of Counselling Practice tobegin clinical supervision and may interrupt clinicalsupervision for a maximum of six months. Internswho re-apply after the maximum allowable delay orinterruption may be required to take refreshercourses, unless prior approval has been obtained.

During clinical supervision, the Intern pays monthlysupervision fees or, if they are in placement,arranges for that agency or clinic to provide freesupervision if an approved supervisor is on staff.

Interns are required to submit monthly statisticalreports signed by their supervisor within 30 days ofthe reporting period in order to receive credit.

VOLUNTEER PLACEMENT

The volunteer placement enables students tovolunteer at an agency in their community inconjunction with their Diploma program.• Students meet with an Admissions Advisor to

discuss areas of interest regarding communityrelations

• Students can create their own schedule afterclasses with the agency of their choice.

• Prerequisites: completion of 4 courses includingclinical counselling skills.

• Student requirements: Placement Contract,Learning Objectives Form, SupervisoryEvaluation Form, a copy of the Code of Ethics,and follow policies and procedures.

Certificate Programs


ADDICTIONS WORKER CERTIFICATE

Formats Available:

Full-time – 24 weeks/6 monthsPM – 1:00 - 5:00pm Monday – FridayOn-campus or through distance educationMonthly start dates available

Admission Requirements:• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application form reviewed & approved




Overview:The Addictions Worker Certificate program isdesigned to introduce students to theory and skillsapplicable to working in various community supportpositions. The program exposes the student to arange of substance abuse etiology and interventionmodels that include cultural factors, community,family and the individual. The courses are taught bytherapists with specialized knowledge of substanceabuse, its treatment and management. Theprogram consists of 8 courses over a 24-weekperiod of study totalling 32 credits. Each course isworth 4 credits, is three weeks in length and totals60 hours of classroom time. Students may applythese credits towards the Diploma of ProfessionalCounselling or other Certificate Programs.

REQUIRED COURSESPPD - 600 Personal & Professional

Development of the CounsellorCCS - 600 Clinical Counselling Skills ISUB - 600 Substance Abuse CounsellingIFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingPHM - 600 Pharmacology for CounsellorsCBC - 600 Introduction to Cognitive Behavioural

CounsellingSSA - 600 Specialized Approaches to

Substance Abuse CounsellingGPS - 600 Group Process and Support SkillsNote: GPS-600 offered on-campus only. IPP-600offered for distance education in lieu of GPS-600.

FAMILY SUPPORT WORKER CERTIFICATE

Formats Available:

Full-time – 6 monthsPM – 1:00 - 5:00pm Monday – FridayOn-campus or through distance educationMonthly start dates available

Admission Requirements:• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application Form reviewed and approved




Overview:The Family Support Worker Certificate program isdesigned to introduce students to theory and skillsapplicable to working in various community supportpositions. The program exposes the student to theissues that families may be struggling with, such as,communication, marital conflict, violence, addiction,abuse, parenting, behavioural management andmore. The courses are taught by therapists withspecialized knowledge of family issues, dynamicsand treatment. The program consists of 8 coursesover a 24-week period of study totalling 32 credits.Each course is worth 4 credits, is three weeks inlength and totals 60 hours of classroom time.Students may apply these credits towards theDiploma of Professional Counselling or otherCertificate Programs.

REQUIRED COURSESPPD - 600 Personal & Professional

Development of the CounsellorCCS - 600 Clinical Counselling Skills IIFC - 600 Introduction to Family CounsellingFAM - 600 Family Violence CounsellingLAR - 600 Listening, Asserting and Resolving

ConflictSUB - 600 Substance Abuse CounsellingLGC - 600 Loss and Grief CounsellingCSF - 600 Case Study Approaches to Family

Counselling

Certificate Programs cont.

CAREER EXPLORATION & DEVELOPMENTSKILLS CERTIFICATE


Formats Available:Full-time – 18 weeks/4.5 months

PM – 1:00 - 5:00pm Monday – FridayOn-campus or through distance educationMonthly start dates availableAdmission Requirements:• Grade 12 or mature student status 19+• Emotional stability• Good verbal and written skills in English• Application form reviewed & approvedA review of the application may take place for anyone or more of the following circumstances:• Past or current substance abuse or addiction• Criminal record• Current or past psychiatric hospitalization,


An interview and/or submission of reference lettersmay be required by the Admissions Department.Overview:The Career Exploration & Development Skills Certificateis designed to allow students to both explore their owncareer development as well as become familiar withcurrent career counselling research, concepts, ande m p l o y m e n t f a c i l i t a t i o nskills. Students will be trained to a level of competenceenabling them to provide a variety of approaches tocareer exploration and employment counsellinga p p l i c a b l e a c r o s s d i f f e r e n t c o m m u n i t ysettings. The program exposes students to a widerange of contemporary models of career exploration andcounselling techniques applicable to a variety ofpopulations and cultural groups. The program consists of6 courses over an 18-week period of study totalling 24credits. Students may apply these credits towards theDiploma of Professional Counselling or other CertificatePrograms.REQUIRED COURSESCCO - 600 Introduction to Career CounsellingCCS - 600 Clinical Counselling Skills ILAR - 600 Listening, Asserting & Resolving

ConflictASC - 600 Advanced Counselling SkillsCSC - 600 Case Study Approaches to Career

CounsellingINS - 600 Integrative Counselling SkillsDistance Education

Who is a typical student of distance education?

A typical student of distance education may be anindividual who is working full-time, has personal,business and family obligations and/orcommitments, but would like to pursue a newcareer or further their education.

Will I receive guidance and support during myprogram or course through distance education?

Yes. An instructor will be assigned to you for theduration of your program or course. The instructorwill evaluate and mark your assignments and will beavailable at specific times for academic assistanceand mentoring.

We also offer an email-sharing program wherestudents may email each other and share ideas,discuss assignment topics or even get together toassist one another. Any student wanting to sharetheir email address with other students mustsign a consent/permission form to release suchinformation.

Review Packages?

A Review Package is provided for specific distanceeducation courses to supplement the required textand related materials. The package is mailed outwith the course materials and cost is included in thetuition fee.

PLEASE NOTE:Distance education is only available through theVancouver campus. Please speak with anAdmissions Advisor 604-683-2442 or 1-800-667-3272 for further information and instruction or visitour website at www.vcct.ca.


Course Descriptions

ACS 600 Aboriginal Counselling Skills

Objective:To understand common or special problems andissues, traditional beliefs and practices andresources within aboriginal communities.Texts: Indian Healing – W.G. Jilek, M.D.

Star Medicine – Wolf MoondanceTopics:Assessing the individual and the community inrelation to traditional beliefs and practices; utilizingexisting strengths and resources such as specialskills, examples of healthy living, local elders,community services, training and educationalprograms; developing effective structures andstrategies for prevention and healing in the localand neighbouring communities and in the larger citysetting.

ASC 600 Advanced Counselling Skills

Prerequisite: Clinical Counselling SkillsObjective:To gain progressive proficiency in the use ofcounselling skills and processes in a briefcounselling relationship and to appreciate theclient role.Text: Skilled Helper - Gerard Egan

(Text already received from CCS I/BSC – 600)Topics:Participants learn counselling theory and skills inactual one-to-one situations; students practicecounselling skills with each other and learn toobserve and give appropriate feedback to eachother under the supervision of the instructor; clientfiles are maintained, and the instructor providesfeedback on style and choice of interventions; as aclient, the student increases awareness of coreissues, transference, emotions, resistance anddefenses, and gains insight into trust and safetyconcerns.

CAT 600 Clinical Art Therapy

Objective:To understand the variety of applications fortherapeutic art with children and adults whilepracticing and applying art therapy skills within thecounselling process.Texts: Using Drawings in Assessment Therapy –

Oster & Gould Selected MaterialsTopics:Use of Kinetic Family Drawing with children andadults; the use of art as projective instruments forassessment; art as a means of establishing rapportwith non-verbal clients; applications of art with clientsexperiencing post-traumatic stress; therapeuticdrawing as a safe expression of difficultexperiences such as sexual abuse; utilizingtherapeutic art to nurture the inner child.

CBC 600 Introduction to Cognitive-BehaviouralCounselling

Objective:To acquire expertise in the broad range oftechniques within this category of thinking and learnapproaches that are designed to change the ways aclient thinks and relates.Text: Cognitive Therapy Techniques: A

Practitioners Guide – Robert L. LeahyTheory & Practice of Counseling &Psychotherapy – G. Corey(Text already received from MOD – 600)

Topics:Knowledge of major theories and theoristsunderlying both behavioural and cognitivetechniques; multi-modal model of experience andthe reciprocal relationships between emotion,cognition and behaviour; development of skillsfocused on fear reduction, operant conditioning andidentification and restructuring of irrational beliefs,cognitive distortions, automatic thoughts and areasof application; the use of cognitive interventions forstress reduction and inoculation.


Course Descriptionscont.

CCO 600 Introduction to Career Counselling

Objectives:To provide an understanding of the variablesinvolved in career exploration and exploreprocesses, which identify potential and strengths ofindividuals.Texts: Applying Career Development Theory to

Counselling – SharfTopics:Major career theorists such as Holland, Super, Roeand Krumholtz; major career theories such as trait-factor, developmental, person-environmental-correspondence, sociological, needs and learningapproaches; assessment methods related to majorcareer counselling models; identifying andresponding to career and career transition issues inclient interviews; knowledge of work context issuessuch as job trends, equal opportunity, job security,unemployment, stress, ageing, work and values;identifying distinct career issues in specificpopulations.

CCS 600 Clinical Counselling Skills (on-campus)CCS 600 Basic Counselling Skills (distance ed.)

Objective:To give students opportunities to put theirtheoretical learning into practice in a setting, whichwill allow them to practice techniques, receivesupervision and obtain feedback.Text: The Skilled Helper by – Gerard Egan Topics:Importance of basic attending, empathy, activelistening and perception checking skills; detailedattention to the Code of Ethics governingcounsellors; boundary and dual relationshipissues; issues of confidentiality in individual,couple, family and group contexts; importance ofongoing supervision when working with clients;awareness and criteria for appropriate and timelyreferral to other professions and resources;attention to current outcome research forcounselling interventions.

CIC 600 Chronic Illness Counselling

Objective:To understand the range of emotions, beliefs, andadaptive and maladaptive behaviours associatedwith a variety of major chronic diseases such asmultiple sclerosis, diabetes, head injury, heartdisease, AIDS/HIV and others.Text: Coping Skills Therapy for Managing Chronic

and Terminal Illness – Kenneth SharoffTopics:Personality changes and anxiety conditionsresulting from specific illnesses; self-concept,developmental and gender factors related toidentified diseases; psychodynamic factors whichinfluence healthy adaptation to chronic disease;understanding the grief process in relation toacceptance and recovery; use of resources withinthe community of those who experience specificchronic conditions.

CIS 600 Critical Incident Stress Debriefing

Objective:To identify the characteristic symptoms of traumaticstress experienced by emergency workers,firefighters, police, and paramedics and to alsounderstand and implement specific skills andapproaches for the prevention of traumatic stressand for support and recovery.Text: Group Crisis Support – Jeffrey T. Mitchell,

PhD.Topics:Experiences and situations which often result intraumatic stress; ineffective ways of dealing withtraumatic stress which interfere with one's ability tofunction; characteristics of traumatic and post-traumatic stress disorder; group approaches totraumatic stress which can be implemented in thework setting; brief preventive interventions whichcan be applied near the time of the critical incident;identifying symptoms such as illness, avoidance,and absenteeism which require proactiveintervention; use of cognitive and behaviouralapproaches such as relaxation and mental imagery;drawing out, validating and supporting emotionssuch as fear, anger and guilt; use of gradualexposure concepts, and approaches which increasepersonal control and empowerment.



CPD 600 Counselling Practice Development

Objective:To gain essential knowledge and practicalapproaches for establishing a professionalcounselling practice or service.Text: Private Practice Handbook – Browning &

BrowningTopics:Creating and building a professional image;developing creative strategies for generatingclientele; ethical standards, legal liability, chartingand business records; fee assessment andprofessional contacts; client relationships: initialcontact, maintaining and determining the length ofcounselling and evaluation; brochure writing.

CSC 600 Case Study Approaches to CareerCounselling

Prerequisite: Introduction to Career CounsellingObjective:To understand and apply career development anddecision making theories to case studies.Texts: Career Counselling: Applied Concepts of

Life Planning – ZunkerTopics:Knowledge of one’s values, abilities, personalityand interests; occupational awareness whichincludes knowledge of the world of work;information about the labour market; decisionmaking using a variety of assessment tools; specialneed populations.

CSF 600 Case Study Approaches to FamilyCounselling

Prerequisite: Introduction to Family CounsellingObjective:To provide students with in-depth practice inapplying family therapy concepts to case studies.Texts: Family Therapy: An Overview –

Goldenberg & Goldenberg(Text already received from IFC-600)Family Therapy: Concepts and Methods –Nichols & Schwartz

Topics:Practice in formulating family dynamics in casestudy material; practice developing treatment plansbased on different systemic theoretical approaches;practice with a variety of family therapy techniques.

CSM 600 Case Study Approaches to Models ofCounselling

Prerequisite: Models of CounsellingObjective:To provide students with more in depth practice inutilizing concepts introduced in Models ofCounselling.Texts: Theory and Practice of Counseling and

Psychotherapy – G. Corey(Text already received from MOD-600)Case Approach to Counseling andPsychotherapy – G. Corey

Topics:Practice in conceptualizing and utilizing theories ofcounselling; planning interventions drawn fromdifferent theories; practice with integrating differenttheories in treatment planning.



EAT 600 Counselling of Eating Disorders

Objective:To understand the psychodynamic factors andemotional, cognitive and behavioural componentsaffecting anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa andovereating.Text: Handbook of Treatment for Eating

Disorders – Garner & GarfinkelTopics:Identifying the symptoms of anorexia nervosa,bulimia nervosa and compulsive overeating;understanding the dangers and adverse healtheffects of eating disorders; treatment implications ofcore issues: a) low self-worth and image-baseworth in anorexia, b) need for control in anorexia, c)unhealthy ways of dealing with emotions in bulimia,d) loss of parental caring; unhealthy patternsemerging from childhood abuse and thedysfunctional family of origin; identifying thoughtpatterns, self-talk, and emotional triggers for bingeand purge behaviours in bulimia.

FAM 600 Family Violence Counselling

Objective:To understand the causes of spousal and familyabuse and develop treatment plans using casestudies.Text: Family Violence – R.L. HamptonTopics:Definitions of abuse and a review of spousal abuse,historically, socially and culturally; assessment offactors contributing to family violence: earlyexperiences, alcohol and drug abuse, stressors anddynamics in couple relationships; strategies forcounselling couples, families with children andindividuals; relating to the legal system and courtprocesses; supporting the person who chooses toremain in an abusive relationship or preparing themfor a safe exit.

FOO 600 Family of Origin Explorations

Objective:This course allows the student to explore their ownfamily of origin in methodical ways and exposesthem to contemporary family therapy theory. Allowsthe student to practice applying family therapyconcepts to their own experience. (6-week course)Text: You Can Go Home Again – Monica

McGoldrickTopics:Exploration of principles of family of origin researchwith reference to literature and personalexperience.

GAC 600 Gambling Addiction Counselling

Objective:To provide familiarities with theoretical and clinicalapproaches to pathological gambling. Individualdynamics will be considered in relation to social,cultural, economic demographics and politicalcontexts.

Texts:

Pathological Gambling: A Clinical Guide toTreatment– Grant & PotenzaOvercoming Compulsive Gambling – BlaszczynskiOvercoming Your Pathological Gambling Workbook– Ladouceur & Lachance

Topics:Gambling and public health, epidemiology, clinicalcharacteristics, population differences, biologicalbasis, role of the clinician, pharmacologicaltreatments, cognitive-behavioural treatments andassessment instruments.



GES 600 Gestalt Counselling Skills

Objective:To gain knowledge and skills in the area of Gestalttheory, therapy, process, and techniques.Text: Gestalt Counselling in Action – P. ClarksonTopics:Understanding basic Gestalt principles such as thecycle of experiencing, the power of awareness andboundary/contact issues as well as therapeuticinterventions; understanding the six Gestaltresistances and identifying them in personal andclinical experience; how to monitor one’s own innerdialog, help others modify toxic messages andutilize the potential of the “language ofresponsibility”; how Gestalt principles can beapplied to managing group processes.

GPS 600 Group Process and Support Skills

Objective:To acquire skills for leading therapy and supportgroups by observing the instructor and byexperiencing the group process.Text: Groups: Process and Practice – Corey &

CoreyTopics:Background theory on group leadership skills inpreparation for leading or co-leading groups;models of group growth and development withtechniques for stimulating and processingdevelopmental stages; barriers to group growth;skill training in lesson design and curriculumdevelopment for psycho-educational groups;specific skill training in solving practical problemsthat occur in groups; ethical and professional issuesarising out of the group experience.

ICC 600 Issues in Cross-Cultural Counselling

Objective:To provide students with a broad knowledge ofculture, cultural variables, intra-cultural differencesand cross-cultural dynamics as they apply tointerpersonal settings, especially the counsellingcontext.Text: Cross Cultural Caring – Waxler-MorrisonTopics:Alternative conceptions of culture and the roleplayed by culture in influencing an individual’sbehaviour, world view, attitudes, values and otherdimensions of subjective culture; identifyingpersonal cultural values, assumptions and priorities;how mental health and mental health services are

defined in other cultural settings; conceptualizingand treatment planning for problems located indifferent cultural contexts.

ICS 600 Introduction to Counselling Seniors

Objectives:To familiarize the student with contemporarytheories and techniques, as well as anunderstanding of effective and ethical methods ofsupporting seniors with the specific concerns ofageing.Text: Geriatric Mental Health Care – KennedyTopics:Background theory and a general understanding ofissues specific to counselling seniors in a variety ofsettings; specific models of assessment relevant tothe multidimensional assessment of the older adult;skills training in counselling with appropriatestrategies and models designed to meet the needsand concerns of the older adult; ethical andprofessional issues arising out of working with thispopulation; counselling skills with specific referenceto sensitive core issues such as health, finances,substance abuse and abuse and/or neglect fromcaregivers, family and others.

IFC 600 Introduction to Family Counselling

Objective:To understand family dynamics related to patternsand issues perpetuated from families of origin andto acquire knowledge of different theories of familycounselling.Text: Family Therapy: An Overview –

Goldenberg & GoldenbergTopics:Assessment of family dynamics using a systemicmodel; unresolved childhood issues anddysfunctional interactive patterns and roles;application of role reversal, family sculpting andjournaling; communication skill training; therapeuticuse of family interviews for the resolution ofindividual client issues.



INS 600 Integrative Counselling Skills

Prerequisite: Advanced Counselling SkillsObjective:To gain increased proficiency in the use ofcounselling skills and processes in a briefcounselling relationship and to appreciate the clientrole.Text: Skilled Helper – Gerard Egan

(Text already received from CCS I/BSC-600))Topics:Participants learn counselling theory and skills inactual one-to-one situations; students practicecounselling skills with each other and learn toobserve and give appropriate feedback to eachother under the supervision of the instructor; clientfiles are maintained, and the instructor providesfeedback on style and choice of interventions; as aclient, the student increases awareness of coreissues, transference, emotions, resistance anddefenses, and gains insight into trust and safetyconcerns.

IPP 600 Introduction to Psychopathology

Objective:To understand causes and characteristics of and tocreate treatment approaches for disordersfrequently seen in a counselling practice.Text: Abnormal Psychology: Perspectives –

Firestone & Marshall.Topics:Mood or affective disorders, anxiety disorders,personality disorders, eating disorders, andpsychotic disorders, described in the Diagnosticand Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM),as wel l as suic ide prevent ion, andpsychopharmacology.

IPR 600 Issues in Prison Release

Objective:To provide the student with an overview of theneeds and concerns of the individual who hasserved time in a correctional facility and is not inthe community.Text: Correctional Counselling and Rehabilitation

– Van Voorhis, Braswell & LesterTopics:Theory and a general understanding of issuesspecific to counselling ex-offenders in a variety ofsettings; models of assessment relevant to issuesand concerns of the ex-offender and their families;skill training in counselling with specific reference tocore issues: anger management, substance abuseand risk assessment; general mandate, systems ofdecreasing security and programming options forthe Correctional Service of Canada; ethical andprofessional issues arising out of working with thispopulation; issues of trust, informed consent,safety, dangerousness and confidentiality with ex-offenders.

LAR 600 Listening, Asserting & ResolvingConflict

Objective:To provide specific communication skills essential tothe adoption of healthy relationship patternsreplacing dysfunctional and distancing behavioursthat are compulsively perpetuated from unresolvedconflicts and losses.Text: People Skills – Robert Bolton, Ph.D.Topics:Basic principles of interpersonal communication,self-assertion and conflict resolution; identifyingone’s own and other’s communication styles indifferent settings and evaluating their effectivenessin non-blaming or pathologizing ways; activelistening and regulating one’s conversationalparticipation using empathy, perception checking,immediacy, judgment, tact, behavioural description,depth and metacommunication; using self-disclosure and how to respond to mixed messages;non-verbal forms of communication.



LGC 600 Loss and Grief Counselling

Objective:To familiarize the student with the stages ofreactions to loss, forms of grieving and mourningincluding delayed mourning, resistances toresolution of loss and aspects of unfinishedbusiness related to loss, and defence mechanismstypically seen in losses.Text: Grief Counselling and Grief Therapy – J.W.

WordenTopics:Understanding the wide range of loss in life itselfincluding aspects of developmental changes,transitional losses, employment, health, disabilities,separation, divorce and death; review ofdevelopmental/transitional loss, traumatic loss and“disenfranchised losses”; knowledge of the effect ofdevelopmental stage on reactions to loss, defencesagainst loss and theoretical models of adjustment toloss; recognition and adjustment to cultural, genderand role-conditioning components of the grievingprocess; the impact of community loss; methods ofintervention including role plays, empty chairtechniques, letter and journal writing, art and playtherapy.

MCS 600 Mentored Counselling Skills Practicum

Objective:This course identifies a practicing counsellor in thestudent’s locale with whom the student contracts forthe purposes of practicing and enhancingcounsellor skills. The practicum is designed toassist students in gaining experience and attainingcontacts and connections in the counselling field.• Students will receive a Mentored Counselling

Skills Practicum Certificate and recognition ontheir transcript upon completing 60 hours ofpracticum training. Students will discuss area ofinterest with the Community Relations Advisor andwill be connected with a placement agency.

• Prerequisites include completing 4 courses at VCCT(one of which must be Clinical Counselling Skillsand the approval from the Director of AcademicPrograms.

• MCS-600 is taken in place of an elective course forthe Diploma Program or it can be taken aftercompletion of the Diploma Program as an extraelective.

Student Requirements: Follow MCS-600 Policiesand Procedures, Contract, Log Book, LearningObjectives Form, Supervisor Evaluation, StudentSelf Evaluation, Copy of the Code of Ethics.

MOD 600 Models of Counselling

Objective:To provide the participant with a broad knowledgeof counselling theories, skills and approaches. Thefocus will be to assist students in developing soundskills in critical evaluation of models and guide themtoward developing a clear foundation for a personalapproach to counselling.Text: Theory and Practice of Counseling and

Psychotherapy – G. CoreyTopics:Understanding common denominators of theories ofcounselling and therapy; identifying similarities anddifferences in theory concepts; contributions andlimitations of each model with regard to specialpopulations and multicultural counselling; limits ofeach model and counsellor responsibilities;applying models to one’s own personal background,values, personality traits and professional goals.

PHM 600 Pharmacology for Counsellors

Objective:To provide an information base in pharmacologyand neuro-physiology as they effect clinicalcounselling situations.Text: Handbook of Clinical Psychopharmacology

for Therapists – Preston, O’Neal, & TalagaTopics:How the central nervous system works; basicpharmacology; categories of mood altering drugs;pharmacokinetics - effects to human behaviour andspecial considerations; drug interactions;complications resulting from use of more than onemood-altering drug; clinical syndromes, etiology andtreatment implications; side effects and cognitivemental status; multiple psychological andphysiological dependence; a working knowledge ofmedications.

Course Descriptions


cont.

PPD 600 Personal & Professional Developmentof the Counsellor

Objective:To understand the ethical guidelines that direct thefield of counselling and how to behave in an ethicalmanner at all times.Text: Issues and Ethics in the Helping

Professions – Corey, Corey & CallananTopics:The counsellor as person and professional;personal values in the counselling process;conf ident ia l i ty; boundaries; professionaldevelopment; selected topics in ethics; ethicalissues in multicultural counselling and couples andfamily counselling.

PSD 600 Psychosocial Development

Objective: To understand the psycho-emotional-social needsof stages in human development and what lifeexperiences result in loss or unmet needs.Text: Development through the Lifespan - L. BerkTopics:Challenges and needs of infancy, childhood,latency, adolescence and adulthood; examples oflife experiences that interrupt and those thatsupport development; examples of unmet needsresulting in dysfunction.

SAB 600 Sexual Abuse Counselling

Objective:To provide information regarding various types ofsexual abuse, indicators of abuse, types ofabusers, the resulting interpersonal damage andunhealthy interpersonal patterns.Text: Counseling Survivors of Childhood Sexual

Abuse – C.B. DrauckerTrauma and Recovery – Herman

Topics:Common indicators of abuse, forms of abuse andthe effects of sexual abuse related trauma onvarious aspects of the client’s life; knowledge of thedifferential impact of sexual abuse as mediated byage, level of cognitive understanding andsocial/cultural context; theoretical models of stagesof adjustment to sexual abuse includingidentification of defence mechanisms, negative roleacceptance, irrational beliefs and forms of actingout; intervention with children, teens and adults;identification of the impact on family, communityand other relationships when disclosures are madeand investigations conducted.

SAS 600 Specialized Approaches to SexualAbuse Counselling

Objective:To identify the therapeutic process andinterventions for assisting the survivor of sexualabuse, non-offending family members, partners andoffenders.Text: Trauma and Recovery – J.L. HermanTopics:A history of the treatment of sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress; a socio-political perspective ofsexual abuse and post-traumatic stress; theprocess of recovery for victims, offenders andsociety; assessment of the normal responses tosexual abuse, life threat, shame and secrecy;special aspects of sexual abuse and the similaritieswith other types of trauma; a model for offendertreatment.

Please note:Distance education students enrolled in the above courseSAS-600 will have already received the required text“Trauma & Recovery” from SAB-600.

Course Descriptions


cont.

SCI 600 Suicide and Crisis Intervention Skills

Objective:To provide essential skills for assessing andpreventing suicide.Text: Crisis Intervention – K. FranceTopics:Assessing the crisis and providing support andvalidation of painful feelings; identifying, partializingand prioritizing multiple issues related to crisis;drawing upon the creative resources of the client forproblem-solving to instill hope; assessing suicidalideas, intent, and degree of risk; admitting thesuicidal client to hospital with or without consentand follow-up; implementing the suicide contract,follow-up and documentation; applications totelephone counselling; assault and crime victims.

SSA 600 Specialized Approaches to SubstanceAbuse Counselling

Objective:To provide advanced skills to students interested inspecializing in alcohol and drug counselling andworking with special populations.Text: Alcohol & Drug Problems: A Practical Guide

For Counsellors – Harrison & CarverTopics:Working with alcohol and drug specific specialpopulations (i.e. youth, women, First Nations,geriatric, people with handicaps, dual diagnosis,etc.); advanced case management and case historywriting; professional ethics and standards ofpractice, alcohol and drug specific; legal andfinancial issues for counsellors and personalwellness; counsellor concerns and issues specificto the alcohol and drug field; signs, symptoms(alcohol and drug specific), effects on humanbehaviour and relationships.

VCCT Disclaimer:Specific course texts are subject to availability.

SUB 600 Substance Abuse Counselling

Objective:To understand the range of addictive substancesand to acquire expertise in approaches to motivateand treat addictive behaviour.Text: Substance Abuse Counseling – Stevens-

Smith & SmithTopics:Knowledge of current research with respect to whatcriteria are used to determine what constitutessubstance abuse, substance dependency,classification of substances and their physiologicaleffects and model of etiology; assessment anddiagnosis examining the appropriate use ofassessment tools; current treatment modalities forindividuals, groups, families, self-help formats, andapproaches to relapse prevention; working withspecial populations; continuum of intervention andtreatment options available to clients withsubstance misuse concerns.


Student Services

Admissions

Applicants may contact the Admissions Departmentat any time and speak with an Advisor to obtaininformation on our programs. Contact Admissionsat 604-683-2442 or toll free 1-800-667-3272.Applicants are required to submit their ApplicationForm with a $100 non-refundable deposit to theAdmissions Department in order to have yourapplication processed and receive a “Letter ofAcceptance”. The purpose of the detailedApplication Form is to provide the college withbackground information, goals and objectives of theApplicant, which will maximize the probability ofsuccess in the counsellor training programs offeredat VCCT.

Faculty Advising

Faculty Advising is offered to students to reviewtheir experience towards learning goals and careerdevelopment as well as any other issues studentsmay have. Students may use up to 2 sessions witha Faculty Advisor during their period of study.

Library

Students at VCCT may sign-out books and relatedmaterial from the library for a period of one week. Ifan extension is required, students must sign-out thebooks and related material again to receive anextension. Please see reception for information.

Bookstore

VCCT offers books and related material to bothstudents and the general public for purchase. Thebookstore carries the most current titles related tomental health and counselling practice. Call 604-683-2442 for an order form or come in person.

Community Relations

An Admissions Advisor will provide assistance withvolunteer/practicum placements and with jobsearch. Volunteer placement enables students tovolunteer at an agency in their community inconjunction with their Diploma program.

Personal Counselling

Students are entitled to 5 free counselling sessionswith an intern or 3 free sessions with a graduate.To obtain a list of available Counsellors, pleaseask reception.

Reserve Packages

Instructors may choose to provide students with aReserve Package to supplement the required textsneeded for their course or program. Thesepackages are usually available on the first day ofclass or can be lent out during a student’s course orprogram upon request.

Refresher Courses

Graduates of VCCT may choose to take refreshercourse(s) at a discounted rate. Subject toavailability. Please call Admissions and speak withan Advisor for more information. 604-683-2442

Tuition Assistance

Applicants wanting to enroll in programs offered atVCCT may need to apply for financial aid. For moreinformation on tuition assistance and procedures forapplying, please contact the AdmissionsDepartment and speak with an Advisor.

Financial aid is available for qualified applicants.Funding sources:

• Canada Student Loans and Provincial StudentLoans

• Student line of credit through a financialinstitution (Bank)

• Workers’ Compensation Board

• Human Resources Development Canada

• Ministry of Skills, Training and Labour(Vocational Rehabilitation Services)

• Native Band sponsorships

Student Lounge

The student lounge offers the use of a microwave,small fridge, telephone (local calls), and apop/snack vending machine. Employment andvolunteer opportunity binders as well as career andcommunity events posting boards are updatedregularly. Two computer stations, printers, internet,wireless internet and work desk(s) are available forstudent use. (Located across the hall from theLibrary).


Graduation

It’s time to celebrate! The Vancouver College of Counsellor Training acknowledges graduates who havecompleted a diploma or certificate program. Upon Completion of each course a graduation ceremony takesplace at VCCT. Family and friends are invited to join the presentation from students and staff.


Career Outcomes

Graduates of VCCT can explore employment opportunities with non-profit organizations,community care agencies, and treatment centers, counselling agencies, specialized counsellingpractices and private practice.

Sheila Q., RPC VCCT Diploma of Professional Counsellingwww.higherground.zoomshare.comSheila is a Registered Professional Counsellor currently running a private practice out of theWhite Rock Wellness Centre. Sheila specializes in Eating Disorders, Trauma, RelationshipProblems, Depression, Loss and Grief, Panic Disorders, Separation and Divorce.

Christine M., RPC VCCT Diploma of Professional Counsellingwww.lighthousecounselling.comChristine offers Individual, Couple and Family Counselling Services through her private practice. Christine alsooffers internet and telephone counselling services for people who may be faced with wait lists or lack ofcounsellors in their home town. Christine also offers workshops on an ongoing basis on various topics such as,Communication in Relationships, or Parent to Parent workshops using the S.T.E.P. (Systematic Training forEffective Parenting) approach.

Janel B. RCC, MBACP VCCT Diploma of Professional Counsellingwww.healingsolutions.caAfter completing her program at VCCT, Janel was accepted into the Master’s in Integrative Counselling Practiceat the University of Derby in England. After graduation she returned to Canada to start her own private practice.Healing Solutions Professional Counselling Services focuses on individual counselling specializing inDepression, Anxiety, Sexual Abuse, Gay and Lesbian issues, Relationships and Addictions. Janel also works asa therapist doing individual and group therapy at the BC Society for Male Survivors of Sexual Abuse.

Ruth B. VCCT Diploma of Professional CounsellingRuth is working at a government emergency task force agency. She describes her experience at VCCT: “TheCollege has given me the strength and self-esteem to use my gift of helping others and to direct it to good use.”Ruth also intends to establish workshops on Addictions, Anxiety and Depression.

Tom B., RPC VCCT Diploma of Professional CounsellingTom has his own private practice specializing in Couple, Family and Group Work. He offers Marriage workshopsand is the President of the BC Chapter for CPCA.

Karleen N. VCCT Diploma of Professional Counsellingwww.karleennevery.caKarleen is operating her own private practice. “I loved the program at VCCT.”

Audrey R. VCCT Diploma of Professional CounsellingAudrey works at a Women’s Shelter as well as the Intersectional Advisory Committee for Children and YouthMental Health Services in Saskatchewan, developing programs.

Glen W. VCCT Diploma of Professional CounsellingGlen is working full time with the RCMP as a Victim Services Coordinator. Also operates a private practice andspecializes in Trauma and Critical Incident issues.

Michael B., RPC VCCT Diploma of Professional Counsellingwww.tiptopwebsite.com/mbestMichael works with youth in custody at the Burnaby Youth Correctional Centre co-facilitating groups where heteaches empathy and communication skills using Reality Therapy, Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Therapy.He also has a private practice called Harmony in Choices. Michael is running a workshop on BorderlinePersonality Disorder for Canadian Mental Health Association - CMHA in New Westminster, BC. This will be forthe staff and with the hopes of future counselling around workplace stress. He is currently working on abusiness proposal to identify and find resolutions around workplace stress management.


Tuition & Fees

Diploma of Professional Counselling (On-Campus)All Courses .........................................................................................$880Comprehensive Examination and Results ........................................$300(Text & Materials Included in Tuition)

Diploma of Professional Counselling (Distance Education)All courses ..........................................................................................$680Comprehensive Examination and Results ........................................$300(Text & Materials Included in Tuition)

Diploma of Counselling Practice Diploma Registration/Administration Fee..........................................$400Clinical Supervision Fee (2hrs per month)Paid to the Clinical Supervisor (approx.)...........................................$75/hourProfessional Liability Insurance (approx.) ................................... ......$250/yearCPCA Membership Fee .....................................................................$150/year

Certificate ProgramsAddictions Worker Certificate (on-campus).......................................$7240Family Support Worker Certificate (on-campus)...............................$7240Career Exploration & Development Skills Certificate(on-campus)........................................................................................$5480Addictions Worker Certificate (distance education)..........................$5640Family Support Worker Certificate (distance education) ..................$5640Career Exploration & Development Skills Certificate(distance education) ...........................................................................$4280

Other Related FeesAnnual Student Fee............................ ................................................$200Archiving Fee......................................................................................$4.00Program Status Change Administration Fee ....................................$150Course Change Fee...........................................................................$60Comprehensive Examination Rewrites .............................................$100Transcripts (student receives three)..................................................$10Additional Copies of Transcripts................................................ ........$5/eachDiploma and/or Certificate Reprints...................................................$5/eachInternational Student Fee...................................................................15% of Tuition

Distance education courses, which are paid on a per courses basis, add $50 per course.


Vancouver College of Counsellor Training

Directory

Campus Locations:

Vancouver Campus206 East 6th Avenue, Vancouver, BC V5T 1J8

Telephone (604) 683-2442 Website www.vcct.caFax (604) 688-9001 Email [email protected] Free 1-800-667-3272

Hours: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday – Friday

Administration:

Executive Director Lydia Manko

Academic & Faculty:

Director of Academic Programs Dr. Dale Brooks, Ph.D.; R.Psych.Instructor Devorah Peterson, M.Ed.,R.C.C.Instructor Mahmud Nestman, M.Ed.Instructor Maya Misic, M.A., Psych.Instructor Maecan Campbell, M.A., R.C.C.

Admissions/Registrations & Administrative Support:

Admissions/Community Relations Coordinator Kathryn Withers-JesseeAdmissions Advisor Fanie ZisStudent Records & Distance Education Alexandra JaworskyReception Carla IacobellisFinance Gurpreet Kaur

vancouver college of counsellor training · for further information, please call admissions...

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