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.
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Who should attend
This program is designed for nurses and allied health professionals looking to build practical, evidence-based mental health skills they can apply directly in patient care settings.
This course is ideal for:
- Nurses and allied health professionals working in mental health or clinical care settings
- New and emerging health care professionals looking to strengthen their mental health knowledge
- Clinicians seeking structured, competency-based upskilling
- Professionals looking to improve confidence in patient assessment, documentation, trauma-informed care, and crisis response
- Health care organizations looking for flexible, scalable workforce development options
What you'll learn
- Understand how the Canadian legal system intersects with mental health care and impacts patient/client outcomes.
- Explain key forensic concepts, including court roles, pleas, fitness to stand trial, and criminal responsibility.
- Educate and support patients/clients in understanding forensic processes, treatment orders, and Ontario Review Board (ORB) decisions.
Course information
Fall 2026
| Forensics in Mental Health | Self-paced: Monday, May 11, 2026 to Wednesday, March 31, 2027 |
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Online
This micro-credential is delivered fully online and asynchronously. Learners can access course materials and complete activities at their own pace within the specified course timeframe.
Facilitator support
This offering is supported by a facilitator who provides feedback on assessments and is available to answer questions related to course requirements. Facilitator support focuses on assessment feedback and learner inquiries regarding course expectations and completion requirements.
Spring 2026
| Registration fee | Registration status |
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Discounts
The Alumni/Staff Discount applies to registration in this program/course.
If you are alumni or staff, contact continuouslearning@ontariotechu.ca with your Student/Banner ID before registering for details about how to apply this discount.
Registration
You can register for this course through the secure online registration form. All course fees must be paid at the time of registration.
Online delivery
This offering may include, but is not limited to:
- Content presentations and/or videos;
- Case discussions;
- Individual work (assignments/quizzes);
- Concept and topic discussions;
- Topic reflections;
This is an open enrolment offering.
Those completing Ontario Tech University Continuous Learning open enrolment offerings (e.g. certificate programs, courses, workshops, microcertifications, etc.) are subject to the policies of Ontario Tech University and Continuous Learning. Ontario Tech policies can be found in the Policy library. Continuous Learning policies can be found in the Regulations section of the Continuous Learning website. Specifically, those completing open enrolment offerings are expected to adhere to the General and Open enrolment regulations.
Requirements
While open to all, these micro-credentials are designed for nurses and allied health professionals seeking practical, evidence-based training in mental health care. Courses are tailored to support workforce development and help learners build the knowledge, skills, and confidence required to provide high-quality, patient-centred care across a variety of clinical settings.
To successfully complete the course, you must:
- Register and make full payment for the course; and
- Successfully complete all components of the course by the specified due date(s).
Learners will receive a digital badge for individual course completion.
Please note: While late registration is available, learners must complete the course by the listed course end date, regardless of the date they registered.
Technology requirements
Online learning requirements:
- Computer or device with internet access
- Stable internet or data connection
- Microphone*
- Webcam*
- Audio device (examples: speakers, headphones/earbuds, headset)
*Optional
Material requirements
There are no additional materials required.
OSAP for Micro-credentials is available for eligible students taking a ministry-approved micro-credential that is less than 12 weeks. To be eligible for OSAP for Micro-credentials, a student must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a protected person; and, be a resident of Ontario. A step-by-step guide on how to apply for OSAP for Micro-credentials is available here.
For more information please visit the OSAP website at www.ontario.ca/OSAP.