Get psyched for one-of-a-kind program

> Psychosocial Rehabilitation conference held at Douglas College a

Aaron Guillen Staff Reporter

n September, the Psychosocial

Rehabilitation/PSR Canada, Mental Health Commission of Canada, and Psychosocial BC held their annual conference at the college to update various organizations on current programs and services being developed to help those with mental illness within BC and across Canada.

During the conference, leaders of organizations were urged to take action based on the information they learned at the conference. In the near future, PSR Canada is hoping to publish their findings in the Canadian Mental Health Journal.

“This is an opportunity to bring the mental-health community together to consider how we are applying recovery-oriented psychosocial rehabilitation practices across the province,” said Regina Casey, coordinator of Douglas’ Psychosocial Rehabilitation Graduate Diploma Program, ina press release.

Since the recent event, fresh eyes have turned to the graduate diploma program, which is one of the first focusing on psychosocial rehabilitation in the country. In a brief interview, Casey clarifies what will be expected of students while

completing the diploma.

“It is an [online-based] evening program with four out of the five classes as night classes and the remaining course strictly online,” she said.

“There are two courses in the Fall semester, two more practical courses during the Winter, and a final three-month course during the summer with 64 hours of practical work. We understand that most students have full time jobs, and this program has taken that aspect into consideration.”

When looking towards future career options, Casey shared a variety of occupations. In addition, she advises students to take one year of practical experience, as it is expected.

“It completely depends on what you come in with, as some new people will gain entry level jobs while others want to continue with school,” Casey pointed out.

“It varies, but most students end up continuing into social work, counselling, or occupational therapy.

We've seen an array of how people choose to further their education, and some might end up in leadership roles within mental health organizations.”

Casey accredits Dr. John Higenbottam, coordinator of the Psychology Program at Douglas, for bringing the Psychosocial Rehabilitation program to life.

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It’s apparent that his tireless effort has gained tremendous support within the college. According to the program’s page, the Graduate Diploma in Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PSR) provides invaluable knowledge for students in PSR practices within mental health settings. The program is highly recommended to practitioners

looking to upgrade, or those with bachelor degrees wanting to enter the mental health field. With the necessary work experience, students can write an exam to become a Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner (CPRP), recognized internationally.

For students who are looking to the program with

Tsawwassen Mills opens doors to public

> Opening causes massive delays in ferry traffic

Mercedes Deutscher News Editor

n October 5, the Tsawwassen Mills outlet

mall opened to the public.

Shoppers have been flooding into the mall, which has been a cause for delay for both drivers and for those using public traffic. The mall’s opening has been especially problematic for those heading to the Tsawwassen Ferry Terminal, and particularly stressful for travellers heading to and from Vancouver Island during the Thanksgiving long weekend.

The mall has also been a stress for TransLink. For the time being, there are three bus routes that stop near the mall—the 609 (Tsawwassen First Nation), which operates on limited service; the 601 (South Delta); and the 620 (Tsawwassen Ferry), which are both coming from Bridgeport Station. The buses from Bridgeport have been

overwhelmed, with shoppers lining up all around the station for the buses. There has yet to be any announcement on whether TransLink will be either adding additional service to these routes, or creating an entirely new route. In the meantime, Tsawwassen Mills is offering its own shuttle service from Scott Road station, although it is only to help employees access the mall. The shuttle operates on a $2 fare, or a $40 monthly fare, according to Business Vancouver. The mall stands on property of the Tsawwassen First Nation, and much of the mall’s design focuses on cultural aspects from the First Nation. Tsawwassen Mills spans 1.2 million square feet, according to the mall’s website. The mall houses 150 stores. While many stores are ones found in most Lower Mainland malls—such as Forever 21, H&M, etc.—the mall also hosts some harder to find retailers, like Bass Pro Shops and Saks Off 5th.

= Image via adobe stock

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x | further questions, Casey encourages individuals to take a deeper look at the program page.

“[The Psychosocial Rehabilitation Graduate Diploma is] an avenue for people who work in a mental health system who are looking for credentials that enhance their employability,” she explained.

Image via Drive BC