Build the skills to support mental health, empower youth and create lasting change in your community.
If you believe everyone deserves support when they need it most, our community and mental health programs are where you belong. Our social services training programs prepare you to work with individuals, families and communities facing challenges like mental illness, addiction, trauma, poverty and social exclusion - giving you the professional credentials and practical experience employers value.
You'll gain counselling techniques, crisis intervention skills and community development knowledge that lead to meaningful careers in social services, disability services, youth services, mental health support and community advocacy across Nova Scotia. Graduate with job security, competitive wages and the satisfaction of knowing you're making a real difference.
Choose your community career path
Social Services
Available at 8 campuses across Nova Scotia. Train for a career as a social service worker supporting diverse populations with poverty reduction, housing support, family services, and social justice advocacy. Our social services program prepares you for employment in community agencies, government, and non-profit organizations.
Child and Youth Care
Available at Ivany and Truro campuses. Become a child and youth care worker and support children and youth facing emotional, behavioural, and developmental challenges in schools, group homes, residential programs, and community settings. High-demand career with strong employment prospects.
Disability Support Professional
Available at Kingstec, Lunenburg and Sydney Waterfront campuses. Train as a disability support worker and empower individuals with disabilities to live independently and participate fully in their communities. This rewarding career path offers stability and purpose.
Behavioural Interventions
Available at Annapolis Valley and Strait Area campuses. Specialize in collaborative, neurodiversity-affirming support for autistic individuals and people with developmental disabilities. Learn evidence-based strategies that honor diverse ways of thinking, learning and communicating. This growing field offers rewarding career opportunities with competitive salaries.
Mental Health Recovery and Promotion
Available at Burridge Campus. Train to help individuals navigate mental health challenges, addiction recovery and wellness goals as a mental health support worker. Prepare for careers in mental health centres, addictions services and community programs.
Why choose NSCC for community services training?
- Field placement experience in community agencies.
- Trauma-informed, culturally responsive curriculum.
- Strong connections to Nova Scotia's social services sector.
- Multiple campus options across the province.
- Financial aid and scholarship opportunities available.
Career opportunities in community and mental health training
Community agencies, mental health centres, youth programs, correctional services, non-profit organizations, group homes, schools, Family and Children's Services and advocacy organizations throughout Nova Scotia.
Apply for fall 2026 community programs
Start making a difference. NSCC's Admissions team is currently accepting applications for fall 2026.