Canada's Growing Need for Mental Health and Addictions Professionals: What Employers Are Looking For

Canadians are experiencing mental health challenges at unprecedented rates, according to the Canadian Mental Health Association. Rising levels of anxiety and depression, increased awareness of mental health issues, and growing pressure on Canada’s healthcare system have created an urgent need for qualified mental health and addictions professionals. The report by the Canadian Mental Health Association found that shortages of psychiatrists and other mental health care providers, including mental health and addictions specialists, especially in the north and more remote communities, mean people aren’t getting care when and where they need it. More specifically, the report goes on to say that when it comes to the distribution of psychiatrists, Canada is below European countries. In Canada, the rate is 13.1 per 100,000 people and the OECD average is 16.8 per 100,000.

As demand for services grows, employers are seeking professionals who can do more than apply theory in practice. They need individuals who can think critically, communicate effectively, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and build meaningful relationships with clients. This is supported by the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, which cites critical thinking, oral communication, and problem-solving among the top skills needed in the mental health field.

According to Dr. Vincent Santiago, a Staff Psychologist in the Eating Disorders Program at Toronto General Hospital at the University Health Network (UHN) and Instructor in The Chang School’s Certificate in Mental Health and Addictions, the foundation starts with evidence-based training. Vincent teaches the Psychological Disorders course (CPSY 325) at The Chang School and is also a psychologist at Grenadier Psychotherapy practice in Toronto. He obtained his PhD in Clinical Psychology at TMU in 2024 and received clinical training at the Family Health Team at St. Michael’s Hospital, the Intensive Residential and Day Treatment Program for OCD at Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, and the Eating Disorders Program at UHN. Vincent’s education and experience in clinical settings have given him an excellent understanding of the state of the mental health system in Canada today.

“I think at the baseline, some really good evidence-based training is important,” says Vincent. Foundational coursework helps learners develop the critical thinking skills needed to assess complex situations and make informed decisions in practice. 

Critical Thinking Is More Important Than Ever

As mental health concerns become more complex and diverse, employers are looking for professionals who can evaluate situations thoughtfully rather than relying on assumptions or one-size-fits-all solutions.

In the Psychological Disorders course that Vincent teaches, learners are trained to think holistically about a patient’s problems by taking a look at the bigger picture using a framework around the five p’s: presenting problem, predisposing factors, precipitating factors, perpetuating factors, and protective factors.  

In a field where no two clients are the same, curiosity and critical thinking help professionals provide more effective and individualized support.

Human Skills Remain the Most Valuable Skills

While technical knowledge is essential, Vincent believes the most important skills in the profession are interpersonal.

“At its core, this work is interpersonal in nature,” he says. “You need to be able to build strong working relationships with your clients as well as your co-workers.” 

As more Canadians seek mental health support, employers increasingly value professionals who can communicate clearly, demonstrate empathy, and create trust with clients. The ability to explain information in a client-friendly way and foster positive relationships often has a direct impact on outcomes. 

Collaboration Is a Core Workplace Skill

Many people imagine mental health professionals working independently in one-on-one settings. In reality, much of the work can happen within interdisciplinary teams. 

In his role at Toronto General Hospital, Vincent regularly collaborates with psychiatrists, family physicians, and other healthcare professionals. As healthcare systems face increasing demand, the ability to work effectively with others becomes even more important.

“I work in a team-based environment," he says. "Working with other people is really, really important.” 

Strong collaboration skills not only improve client care but can also help professionals build networks, establish credibility, and create future career opportunities. Vincent notes that a strong professional reputation is often built through effective collaboration. 

Resilience Helps Sustain a Long-Term Career

As organizations work to address growing mental health needs with limited resources, burnout remains a challenge across many areas of the sector.

Vincent acknowledges that the work can be emotionally demanding, particularly in publicly funded settings where resources may be limited. For that reason, in Vincent’s experience, he’s found that employers value professionals who understand the importance of boundaries, self-care, and maintaining balance outside of work. 

“It’s really important to make sure that you set some good boundaries and replenish your resources,” he says. 

Professionals who can care for their own well-being are often better equipped to support others over the long term.

From Standing Out Early in Your Career to Upskilling Later On

Current learners and emerging professionals may wonder how to demonstrate these skills before entering the workforce or applying for a more senior role later on in their career.

According to Vincent, volunteer experiences, group projects, research opportunities, and collaborative coursework all provide valuable opportunities to build communication and teamwork skills. These experiences allow learners to practice engaging with others, solving problems collaboratively, and applying what they learn in real-world contexts. 

He also encourages aspiring professionals to gain experience in different settings early in their careers to broaden their perspectives and strengthen their skill sets. 

Meeting a Growing Need

As mental health challenges continue to affect Canadians and organizations work to expand access to care, the need for qualified professionals will only continue to grow.

For employers, the strongest candidates are those who combine evidence-based knowledge with empathy, curiosity, communication skills, collaboration, and a commitment to lifelong learning. As Vincent notes, these skills can be developed through education, training, and practice. 

For those considering a career in the field, there has rarely been a more important time to make a difference.

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