Algoma University Launches Innovative Psychotherapy Program for Northern Ontario

Algoma University in Sault Ste. Marie is set to introduce a new Master of Psychotherapy program, aiming to enhance mental health care in northern Ontario. Slated to begin in the fall of 2026, this program is designed to address the specific mental health and addictions challenges faced by the region.

The Master of Psychotherapy program is a pioneering initiative tailored to meet the unique needs of northern Ontario. Coordinators emphasize that it will equip future psychotherapists with critical clinical skills and practical experience. This curriculum is particularly significant as psychotherapists typically stem from backgrounds in social work or counselling, utilizing “talk therapy” to assist individuals with various mental health issues.

Teryn Bruni, the program planning lead for Algoma’s School of Psychology, expressed excitement about the forthcoming launch. She highlighted that the program will focus on culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices, preparing graduates to effectively engage with the region’s diverse population. “We’re really cognizant in our region that graduates need to work with a diverse population. Psychotherapy felt like a good first step towards helping meet that need,” Bruni stated.

Program Details and Structure

The university is currently accepting applications for the program until December 15, 2025. The “mostly in-person” curriculum will accommodate class sizes of up to 20 students, offering both full-time two-year and part-time three- or four-year options. Recognizing concerns that new graduates may feel unprepared for therapeutic sessions, Bruni assured that the program prioritizes early exposure to fieldwork in Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding areas.

“They’re really well-versed in professional ethics and theoretical foundations, but actually putting it into practice is a really challenging transition for some grads,” Bruni explained. “We try to encourage early exposure to therapeutic context for our trainees so they don’t feel so unprepared for practice in the field.”

Addressing Workforce Challenges

Despite the quality of mental health care in northern Ontario, Bruni noted the region struggles with a limited and overworked workforce. She hopes the new program will inspire local individuals to pursue training in psychotherapy and subsequently remain in the area to contribute to the expanding workforce. “This program has been tailored to our region and is really aimed at having people want to stay here and expand that workforce,” she stated.

Currently, the faculty for the Master of Psychotherapy program includes three full-time instructors, comprising a registered psychologist, a psychotherapist, and an Indigenous social worker. The program coordinators plan to expand the faculty further to enhance the educational experience.

This initiative by Algoma University not only signifies a commitment to improving mental health services in northern Ontario but also aims to foster a new generation of professionals equipped to meet the region’s unique challenges.