Addictions and Mental Health graduate embraces global competency challenges at Durham College, preparing her to work with diverse communities

Graduate spotlight: Mourin Moyen

Mourin Moyen seized every opportunity for personal growth while she studied at DC, exploring student leadership, global learning and cultural experiences.

Moyen explains it had been 16 years since her last studies before she decided to enroll in the Addictions and Mental Health graduate certificate program.

“I remember passing by Durham College for three years, thinking it was just another college, but when I enrolled, I was pleasantly surprised by how expansive and vibrant it was,” she said. “The opportunities here were endless.”

She jumped in and got involved with the DC Student Association (DCSA), the DC Institute for Student Leadership (ISL), cultural events, mentorship programs and more. Moyen also tackled global competency challenges by completing the Global Learner Recognition Program earning her a badge at graduation. The program is aimed at skills and awareness to help students thrive in a rapidly changing and increasingly connected world.

“Every week, there was something new to engage in, and I truly felt like I was part of a larger community that celebrated all cultures and religions,” she said. “The support I received, both from peers and the institution, helped me integrate seamlessly into the college environment and boosted my personal and academic growth.”

Moyen found the Addictions and Mental Health program to be intense, but rewarding and said she valued practical, hands-on learning which played a pivotal role in preparing her for her career.

“I had some of the best professors who not only guided me academically but also provided support during challenging times,” she said. “The curriculum, which included co-op opportunities, prepared me so well that I landed a position at Community Care Durham within a month of completing the program.”

She adds that the global competency modules the Global Learner Recognition Program also equipped her with a broader understanding of different cultures, which has been invaluable in her current role working with diverse communities.

Looking towards the future, Moyen said she is considering pursuing a master’s degree to become a psychotherapist and she plans to continue to be involved with global initiatives.

“What I love most about Durham College is the sense of community and belonging,” she said. “The way DC celebrates diversity is remarkable—whether it’s the variety of events representing different cultures or the deep understanding and respect for Indigenous peoples. Every moment at DC was an opportunity to learn, grow, and make connections​.”


Durham College leads the way in mental health with on-campus services and in-demand programs

As a college student, you have a lot on your plate.

From juggling course assignments, lectures, labs and research papers, to squeezing in study time and working your part-time job – it’s a lot! And it’s easy to not give your mental health the attention it deserves. But at Durham College (DC), a number of on-campus services and resources aim at making mental health less of an after-thought and more of a priority.

DC’s Campus Health and Wellness Centre (CHWC) provides mental health services that begin with a mental health needs assessment. Based on the results of this assessment, you’re connected with an appropriate member from a team of medical professionals who practice mental health, psychotherapy, and wellness coaching. You also have access to a variety of convenient and confidential well-being services on campus, a pharmacy and medical clinic.

Additionally, you can reap the benefits of free on-campus wellness workshops, events, and support groups through the CHWC that include topics such as yoga, mindfulness, body image and food, and relationship building.

International students are encouraged to check out DC’s complimentary International Wellness Check – designed to make your transition to post-secondary education easier by discussing any health concerns you may have and ensuring you’re up to date on immunizations required for your program.

If you’re looking for on-going counselling services or simply a trusted professional to talk to about your academics, DC’s Access and Support Centre has you covered.

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Are you ready to take your passion for mental health to the next level?

As the demand for mental health services continues to rise, the need for qualified practitioners is becoming more important than ever, and DC is answering the call. The new Community Mental Health – Honours Bachelor program was designed to equip future mental health professionals with the knowledge and skills needed in today’s world.

DC’s Addictions and Mental Health (graduate certificate) program is also available to prepare future mental health professionals for careers as counsellors and support workers.

Apply today and begin this September!