CTRI ACHIEVE

Mental Health and Addictions

Harm Reduction

A Framework for Change, Choice, and Control

Harm reduction meets people where they are and supports safer choices without judgement. This training explores practical harm reduction strategies for helping professionals.

4.9 (12,500+ enrolled)

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included

Harm Reduction Strategies for Helping Professionals

Harm reduction is an approach to helping people explore their relationship with substances and behaviours. It works to reduce and mitigate damage and pain, and offers strategies to increase and promote safety, choice, and control. Harm reduction moves away from traditional understandings of “addiction” as a disease and responses that are based on assumed morality and abstinence, or fear and punishment.

This workshop explores the principles of harm reduction, how it works, and to whom it may apply. Participants will learn practical strategies for working with individuals, families, and communities within a harm reduction framework.

Learning Objectives

Differentiate between traditional approaches to “addictions” and a harm reduction approach

List qualities and values needed to practice within a harm reduction model

Utilize a relational framework for working with a person’s use of substances and behaviours

Recognize the importance of your language as you connect with people

12,500+

Professionals Trained

4.7 Stars

Trustpilot Rating

500+

Organizations Served

Choose Your Format

Training options built for real-world needs.

Most Popular

On-Demand Workshop

Recorded workshop for flexible, self‑paced learning.

$149

/ per person

Start right away – no scheduling required

Learn at your own pace, in manageable sections

Follow along with a full downloadable manual

Earn a certificate and continuing education credits

Access anytime, on any device

Share access across your team for consistent learning

Live Virtual Workshop

Interactive sessions with experienced facilitators.

From $299

/ per person

Learn from an experienced facilitator

Ask questions and get real-time guidance

Connect and learn alongside peers

Engage in discussions and practical exercises

Earn 6 CECs per day of training

Receive a certificate upon completion

View Upcoming Dates

Personalized training solutions for your team.

Starting at

Contact for pricing

per session

Additional Options

On-Demand Webinar

Condensed training in a video format.

Standalone written learning resource.

What You'll Learn

Walk away with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference. The objectives below outline what you'll be equipped to do after completing this training.

Harm Reduction Foundations

Learn core principles.

Reduce Stigma

Challenge myths and bias.

Safer Use Strategies

Support safer choices.

Client Autonomy

Respect client decisions.

Service Integration

Connect clients to supports.

Long-Term Change

Support gradual improvement.

Our Approach

Grounded in research, practical application, and real‑world experience.

Accessible

Clear, approachable learning without unnecessary jargon.

Applicable

Content designed for real‑world challenges and opportunities.

Engaging

Facilitators bring content to life through stories and examples.

Practical

Skills and tools designed for everyday use in your setting.

What People Are Saying

Insights from our participants.

"

It's not always easy to facilitate a six-hour session, but it flew by. Perfectly timed, packed with useful, relevant information, curated to address the unique needs of our group."

K. Decle

University of British Columbia, Office of Student Academic Services

"

This was one of the best trainings our organization has had. Staff were so engaged and came away energized and excited rather than tired and drained."

T. Etienne

Portal Youth Outreach Association

"

CTRI is a great source for learning. They were easy to work with and our facilitator presented in an engaging and interactive way that kept people interested and attentive."

J. Grimes

Optimism Place Women's Shelter and Support Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the training.

This training is for:

Mental health professionals

Social services and community‑based professionals

First responders and emergency services

Health care workers and support staff

School and post‑secondary personnel

Leaders, managers, and supervisors

Human resources and people operations teams

Employees in corporate or business settings

Anyone working in people‑centred or support roles

What is harm reduction and why does it matter?

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Harm reduction is an approach that prioritizes reducing the negative consequences of substance use and other risky behaviours without requiring abstinence. It meets people where they are with dignity and respect.

Who is this training for?

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This training is designed for social workers, health care workers, outreach workers, community service providers, and anyone who works with people in high-risk situations.

Does this training address stigma?

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Yes. Challenging stigma around substance use and high-risk behaviour is a core part of this workshop, helping participants develop more compassionate and effective approaches.

What practical strategies are included?

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The workshop covers principles of harm reduction, safer use strategies, service integration, client autonomy, and practical tools for supporting gradual, sustainable change.

Is this training available online or privately?

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Yes. CTRI offers this workshop in live, on-demand, and private formats. Contact us to arrange a session for your team or organization.

Can this training be customized for Indigenous communities or specific populations?

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Yes. CTRI can adapt harm reduction content for Indigenous communities, youth services, and other specific populations. Reach out to discuss your needs.

Learn Practical Harm Reduction Skills

Learn a compassionate, evidence-informed approach to harm reduction that supports safer choices and healthier outcomes. View training options or bring this workshop to your team.

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included