Between puberty and midlife, women are twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with an anxiety disorder.1 Many young women report feeling powerless when seeking mental health support.2 Despite these and other gender-based disparities, only 3% of health research globally focuses specifically on women’s health3, and, until 1993, women were largely excluded from clinical research.4 Today, the design and delivery of mental health services continue to reflect—and often reinforce—gender-based inequities.5
Women’s mental health is shaped by a complex intersection of biological, psychological, social and cultural influences. This certificate program is designed to equip mental health professionals with the knowledge, insight and tools to provide effective, compassionate, and empowering care to women across the lifespan.
Participants will explore a broad range of topics, including:
- Reproductive and perinatal mental health
- Intimate partner violence
- Eating disorders and body image
- Menopause and hormonal transitions
- Burnout, anger and emotional expression
The program also addresses how mental health is impacted by race, geography and age—examining the unique experiences of adolescents, Black and racialized women, and those living in rural or isolated communities. Critical attention is given to systemic barriers, gaps in clinical knowledge and the societal narratives that continue to shape women’s experiences of distress and recovery.
Grounded in current research and evidence-informed practice, this certificate is ideal for clinicians who want to deepen their understanding of women’s mental health and expand their capacity to provide gender-responsive care. Through interactive learning, real-world case studies, and a focus on both individual and systemic considerations, professionals will be empowered to support the mental wellness, resilience and agency of women in all their diversity.
Completion Requirements
To complete the Women’s Mental Health certificate, you must take a minimum of 84 course hours. You can complete this certificate in as little as one year or take up to seven years. You do not have to be working toward the Women’s Mental Health certificate to take any of these workshops. These workshops can be taken in any order.
Participation and Attendance
Full attendance and participation are required to complete these workshops. Participants are requested, as much as possible, to have their cameras on. We know there are situations where this is not possible, so please send a message to your instructor or the Professional Development host to let them know that you are unable to turn on your camera. Our workshops are interactive and include breakout rooms, role play, group discussions and other activities. Participation is required.
Four + Discount
Register for four or more courses at once to apply a 10% discount in your cart on the cost of each course. You must register and pay for all courses at the same time; discount is not cumulative or retroactive. If discount is not being applied at time of registration, contact fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca for assistance. Discount cannot be applied after registration is complete.
Delivery Options
The Women’s Mental Health certificate workshops are available remotely through Zoom.
Registration
No application is required. To register, select a course from the menu of the right, then a course section to view the dates and cost or add the course to your cart. Complete your registration with payment.
Becoming a Therapist
Completing the Women’s Mental Health certificate will not qualify you to practice therapy or register with any college or association, including the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers or the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario. Please visit those websites for information on becoming a therapist in Ontario.
Contact Information
For more information about this certificate contact the Faculty of Social Work Professional Development office:
Email: fswprofessionaldevelopment@wlu.ca
Phone: 548-889-5128
See our website and Frequently Asked Questions for more information.