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Wellness & Recovery College

Learning Experiences for Everyone

Wellness & Recovery College icons

Registration for January/February 2025 now open!

Recovery Colleges were pioneered in the United States in 2000, spread to Europe in 2009, and then to Canada in recent years. Canadian Mental Health Association branches now operate 16 Recovery Colleges across the country. The Wellness & Recovery College, operated by the Windsor-Essex County Branch, opened in September 2022, welcoming students interested in focusing on personal recovery and growth in the areas of mental health and addictions, and well-being. The College is open to anyone in the community, including those with lived/living experience and their caregivers.

Wellness & Recovery College courses are co-developed by trained Peer Support Workers along with those with lived/living experience. Facilitated by a Peer Support Worker, these free courses are provided in a safe, confidential, inclusive learning environment with a focus on building hope and empowerment. The lived experience of the Peer Support Worker helps to provide guidance, fosters a culture of hope, and reveals new possibilities and opportunities for students.

The Wellness & Recovery College operates four semesters throughout the year with new courses added regularly.

The CMHA-WECB Wellness & Recovery College is currently offering in-person classes for anyone interested in learning more about recovery and wellness. Our courses are developed and delivered in partnership with our peer supporters. These individuals have lived/living experience of mental health, addictions, or supporting a loved one. Enroll in person at our main office at 1400 Windsor Ave., or online below.

To learn more about the Wellness & Recovery College, click here.

COURSE CATALOGUE AND REGISTRATION:

  • SUPPORT TO HELP QUIT SMOKING/VAPING NICOTINE

    Let’s connect and find support on quitting or reducing your smoking or vaping! Understand your habit, identify and help manage triggers, develop strategies, and get education on nicotine replacement therapies.

    Beginning Thursday, January 16, 2025 (4 weeks)
    Time: 10:30am – 12:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

  • BOUNDARIES

    This course will provide an introduction to the various types of boundaries, explain why they are important for healthy relationships and in recovery. Students will be able to practice setting their own boundaries.

    Beginning Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (4 weeks)
    Time: 10:00am – 12:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

  • THE SEVEN GRANDFATHER TEACHINGS

    The Seven Grandfather Teachings will be co-facilitated with Nick Metivier, Indigenous Peer Support Coordinator, Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare. We gratefully acknowledge and thank Nick for sharing his teachings and resources with Wellness & Recovery College.

    During this 8-week course students will listen and learn traditional teachings from Indigenous ancestors.

    Each week one of the Seven Grandfather Teachings will be taught and discussed. Students are expected to commit to the full 8-week program.

    Beginning Tuesday, January 14, 2025 (8 weeks)
    Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

  • COFFEE CONVERSATIONS – JANUARY

    In this unique course each week students will decide on a topic or activity. As a student-led course, it will include conversations regarding recovery, addictions, mental health and lived experience. This course provides social interaction in a safe and confidential setting.

    Beginning Thursday, January 16, 2025 (3 weeks)
    Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

     

  • COFFEE CONVERSATIONS – FEBRUARY

    In this unique course each week students will decide on a topic or activity. As a student-led course, it will include conversations regarding recovery, addictions, mental health and lived experience. This course provides social interaction in a safe and confidential setting.

    Beginning Thursday, February 6, 2025 (4 weeks)
    Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

  • COFFEE CONVERSATIONS – MARCH

    In this unique course each week students will decide on a topic or activity. As a student-led course, it will include conversations regarding recovery, addictions, mental health and lived experience. This course provides social interaction in a safe and confidential setting.

    Beginning Thursday, March 6, 2025 (4 weeks)
    Time: 1:00pm – 3:00pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

  • MINDFULNESS 2.0

    Fundamentals of Mindfulness will be co-facilitated with Christopher Higgins, Founder and Mindfulness Instructor, The Peace of Mindfulness Centre.

    This course will build upon the Introduction to Mindfulness course from the previous semester, and further examine topics such as:

    • Mindfulness definitions and exercises to support mindfulness
    • The belief systems of love and kindness
    • Self-compassion
    • Dealing with resentments
    • Anxiety

    Beginning Wednesday, January 15 (4 weeks)
    Time: 3:15pm – 4:15pm
    Location: CMHA-WECB

    REGISTER HERE

     

    By registering for this class you are agreeing to abide by the Wellness & Recovery College’s Participation Guidelines
    Creating a Safe, Inclusive, and Supportive Learning Environment

    Confidentiality
    We will be respectful of each other’s privacy; we will not share the names or personal experiences of others. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) will break confidentiality only if someone expresses that they are at risk of serious harm to themselves or others; or if a child under the age of 16 is at risk of being harmed.

    Diversity and Inclusion
    All participants will support an environment that is free from stigma, prejudice, and discrimination. We will be open-minded to each other’s journey and experiences.

    Reciprocity Within Our Space
    Everyone is welcome to speak and share as they are comfortable. Silence is OK and we have the right to ‘pass’ if we would prefer to just listen. When we share, we use “I” statements to share our own wisdom and experiences.

    Mutual Respect
    We will show respect for each other by creating space for each person to share, side conversations and interruptions are discouraged. We understand that we are the experts in our own lives. This is a learning space meant for exploration of our perspectives, we will be mindful of language such as ‘should’ or ‘need to’.

    Self-Advocacy and Personal Responsibility
    Reach out to your supports if you should you need them. Every student will be provided with a pamphlet of community resources in Windsor and Essex County. The Peer Support Worker will support students with additional resources if needed. The Peer Support Worker and/or co-facilitator(s) are open to feedback about your experiences throughout the course. There will also be opportunities to share feedback in a survey at the end of each course.

    Share the Headlines, Not the Details
    We will use ‘headlines’ rather than details as it relates to medications, trauma, and substance use. The Peer Support Worker and students can discuss the impact of the experiences that they have been through rather than the details of the experience itself. This may include emotions and feelings.

    Substance Use
    Wellness & Recovery College supports all recovery, including abstinence and harm reduction. As each student’s journey is different, we must be supportive and respectful of all students. If any students’ behaviour or class materials are triggering, please discuss with the Peer Support Worker privately outside of class. There is to be no substance use on CMHA property, including parking lots, and students are expected to arrive to class not under the influence of any substances.

     

CMHA-WECB and the Wellness & Recovery College wish to thank our funders:

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