Forensics in Mental Health
Overview
This course delves into the intersection of forensic mental health and the Canadian legal system, equipping learners with the knowledge and skills to engage, educate, and support patients/clients navigating the complex terrain of forensic mental health. Learners will gain a comprehensive understanding of the critical components within the scope of forensics that directly impact a patient/client's situation. These components include the roles in the court system, court pleas, fitness to stand trial, treatment orders, criminally responsible vs not criminally responsible, role of the Ontario Review Board (ORB), and types of dispositions from the ORB.
Who should register
Our mental health microcredentials are designed for healthcare professionals working in hospitals and related care settings, providing practical skills that can be applied directly in their workplace.
- Nurses (RNs, RPNs, LPNs)
- Nurse Practitioners
- Allied Health Professionals
- Healthcare Support Staff
- Emergency and Crisis Intervention Staff
- Hospital Administrators and Managers
- Community Health Workers
What you'll learn
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What is a Microcredential
Microcredentials are short, focused programs that allow you to build in-demand skills quickly and effectively. At Ontario Tech University, microcredentials are offered in both continuous (open) enrollment and six-week formats, and combine hands-on, scenario-based learning, real-world case studies, and interactive exercises to ensure practical application.
Every learner is supported by a dedicated skills coach or marker-grader and, upon completion, earns a digital badge to showcase their achievement. These badges can be added to your LinkedIn profile, résumé, or digital portfolio, helping you demonstrate your expertise to employers and advance your career.
Ontario Tech currently offers 23 microcredentials across a wide range of topics, from foundational healthcare and mental health skills to specialized areas such as CBT, DBT, trauma-informed care, and organizational change in healthcare settings.
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How it works
- Register Anytime
- Begin your journey by registering to one of the microcredentials above. Once registered, you’ll be all set to access the course on the start date.
- Start Your Microcredential
- On your course start date, you’ll gain full access to the learning materials, including interactive lessons, real-world case studies, and hands-on scenario-based exercises.
- Apply and Reinforce Your Learning
- Reinforce your learning through assessments and apply your skills in practical, real-world scenarios using evidence-based interventions and techniques.
- Receive Feedback from Your Marker Grader
- A dedicated marker-grader will review your assessments and provide feedback to support your learning.
- Earn Recognition
- After successfully completing the microcredential, you’ll be awarded a digital badge. Share it on LinkedIn, add it to your résumé, or include it in your digital portfolio to showcase your expertise and advance your professional development.
- Register Anytime
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Digital Badges
When you complete a microcredential, you’ll earn a digital badge — a verified, digital certificate that proves the skills and competencies you’ve gained throughout the course. These badges are secure, shareable, and recognized by employers, allowing you to:
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Display your achievements on LinkedIn, your résumé, or digital portfolio.
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Verify your competencies in practical, real-world skills learned during the microcredential.
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Demonstrate career readiness and professional growth to colleagues, employers, and industry networks.
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Policies and Important Information
Extensions
- If you require additional time to complete a course, please contact your marker-grader to discuss an extension.
Technical Support
- For any technical issues, please reach out to continuouslearning@ontariotechu.ca for assistance.
Course Questions
- For questions related to your assessments, please contact your marker-grader, who will provide guidance and support throughout your learning journey.
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Technology and materials
Technology requirements
Video conferencing
Online learning requirements:
- Computer or device with internet access
- Stable internet or data connection
- Microphone
- Webcam*
- Audio device (examples: speakers, headphones/earbuds, headset)
*Webcam is preferred but not required.
Material requirements
There are no additional materials required for this program.