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Sep 21, 2022

5 Reasons to Become a Child and Youth Care Worker

5 Reasons to Become a Child and Youth Care Worker

We all deserve the opportunity to create a better life for ourselves, to experience compassionate support from those who genuinely care, and to be inspired to overcome our challenges and achieve our goals.

There are children, youth, and the families who love them, who need qualified professionals to see them through difficult times, and strategies and counselling to foster healthier lives. If you’re considering a youth service worker course/ assistant youth worker program or addictions support worker program, there are few careers that are more rewarding.

Let us offer you insights into why you want to explore how to become a family support worker.

Top 5 Reasons to Become a Child and Youth with Addictions Support Worker

 

1. Empowering Work

Exploring a mental health support worker program means that you will become qualified to work closely with children, adolescents, and families as they face social, emotional, behavioural and mental health concerns and provide support for their needs. You will assess and implement appropriate prevention and intervention strategies aimed to inspire real and lasting change. Your guidance can be the catalyst for healing for families and you will be a voice for children and youth as they learn to advocate for themselves and make healthier choices.

2. Meaningful Relationships

In this career you will come to know people on a genuine level, understanding the challenges they face, their hopes and goals, and will work closely with them to help them achieve those visions for a better life. If you’re looking for a job that connects you and allows you to build meaningful relationships with your clients, this is it.

3. Personal Development

As you empower change in others, you can’t help but change and grow as an individual. Supporting those who are facing the most challenging times of their lives can be difficult, but as you learn the strategies to help them overcome and thrive in life, you too will evolve in strength, courage, and wisdom.

4. Dynamic Team Environment

Not only does this career team you up with a diverse range of clients, but you will also work in close collaboration with other professionals in your field including medical and social workers, educators, correctional staff, and community partners. Working in tandem with others compassionately committed to making a difference in the lives of others, is an extraordinary experience.

5. 72 weeks to a Thriving Career

A program like Anderson College’s Child and Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker program, can offer you the education and practical training to start your career in just over one year. Anderson’s program is 72 weeks, taught by experts who have industry experience, and includes 500 hours of externship with on-the-job training, offsite with potential employers. It is designed to teach students the necessary practical skills and theory to work with adolescents, children and families with challenging social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health concerns and needs. Curriculum covers areas such as: child and adolescent development, cultural awareness and sensitivity, family ties, mental health practices, child prevention intervention, group work, activity programming, indigenous children’s programs, after school programs, intro to technology, interpersonal communication and much more.
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As the world continues to face the residual affects of COVID-19, and mental health issues in children and youth remain prevalent, our country is in need of compassionate professionals who are intent on making a difference in the work they do. Could that be you?

If you’re still determining if this program could match your interests and career goals, take the “Anderson College Child & Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker Discovery Quiz”.

If you’re ready to begin this rewarding Child & Youth Care with Addictions Support Worker career, book a virtual appointment with our Admissions team to join the next class! We’re here to support you every step along the way, as you find your ideal career fit.

We want to make sure you have what you need to succeed! Check out these reference links:

Frequently asked questions

Quick answers about applying, funding, and life at Anderson College.

How long does it take to complete a program at Anderson College?
Most diploma programs run 24–58 weeks of full-time study, depending on the discipline. Healthcare programs (PSW, Cardiology, MOA, Dental Assistant) typically include a clinical or work placement so you graduate job-ready.
What financial aid options are available?
We accept OSAP (Ontario), Better Jobs Ontario, Windmill Microlending, in-house Alumni and PSW bursaries, and traditional student lines of credit through major banks. Visit our Financial Aid page for the full list and to chat with a Financial Aid Advisor.
Are international students welcome?
Yes. Anderson College is a DLI-approved Career College registered with the Ministry of Colleges and Universities. Programs marked as PGWP-eligible qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit. See our International Students page for visa support details.
How do I apply?
You can start your application online in under 5 minutes or speak with an Admissions Advisor for a guided walkthrough. Begin your application here.
Does Anderson College offer job placement support?
Every program includes Career Services — resume coaching, interview prep, employer connections and lifetime alumni support. Many programs also include a built-in clinical or industry placement so you graduate with real-world experience. Learn more on the Career Services page.

Still have a question? Speak with an Admissions Advisor →

Anderson College — Celebrating 140+ Years

Anderson College is one of Canada's oldest colleges, having opened our first location in 1885. We have trained more than 150,000 students over a 140-year history, and have been an empowering partner for students overcoming career challenges and transitioning to the next phase of their lives.

With ten locations in Ontario, we are recognized for our high-calibre faculty, hands-on, real-life career training and supportive culture. At Anderson College, we are more than our century-old history, our programs and state-of-the-art facilities; we are a team of caring individuals, deeply committed to helping our students become skillful, confident and in-demand employees.

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