The critical need for professional competencies for the substance abuse workforce was identified both through the Canadian Centre on Substance Abuse's (CCSA) 2004 Canadian addiction treatment workforce survey and through cross-Canada consultations for the National Framework for Action to Reduce the Harms Associated with Alcohol and Other Drugs and Substances in Canada in 2005.
In response, CCSA, under the leadership of the National Advisory Group on Workforce Development (NAGWD)—a working group composed of subject matter experts/senior managers from across Canada—undertook a Competencies Project to detail the technical and behavioural competencies needed by the substance abuse workforce to perform effectively to ensure quality client care.
This work culminated in the Competencies for Canada's Substance Abuse Workforce—a framework and supportive resource for professionals that identifies the technical and behavioural abilities (specific and measurable skills, knowledge, attitudes and values) required to perform optimally in the substance abuse field.
The Competencies apply to those working in health promotion, support and outreach, counselling, withdrawal management, clinical supervision, administration and senior management. It is also relevant to allied professionals (e.g., primary health care providers, enforcement officials, Elders, volunteers and social workers) interacting with individuals who have substance abuse issues.
This resource is comprised of:
- Behavioural Competencies for Canada's Substance Abuse Workforce, v.1 (published in February 2010): Distinguishes the abilities, attitudes and values desired to enhance performance of specific job functions and the level of aptitude needed to effect positive client outcomes.
- Supporting tools, such as interview and performance management guides as well as application tools: Enables organizations and individuals to quickly adopt or adapt and apply the Competencies in their work settings. For instance, these tools can help facilitate the creation of learning and development strategies for staff and support the hiring and retention of skilled people.
- Technical Competencies for Canada's Substance Abuse Workforce, v.1 (published in November 2007): Identifies the knowledge and skills necessary to perform specific job functions and the level of proficiency required to ensure better client outcomes.
Through ongoing consultations and feedback, the Competencies will continue to be strengthened and evolve to meet the needs of the field. As a result, subsequent versions of the Competencies will be published periodically to ensure the information is up to date with current evidence.