Grounded in extensive community input and collaboration, Algoma University is proud to announce that its Master of Psychotherapy (MAP) program has been officially approved by the University Senate, making it the first of its kind in Northern Ontario.
The Master of Psychotherapy program is designed to train psychotherapists who provide responsive, high-quality clinical care while strengthening the resilience and well-being of northern communities. The program offers flexible full-time and part-time study options to support working students and those willing to travel within the region. It is built on practical learning, with students engaging in in-person classes, developing advanced clinical skills, and gaining professional experience through a supervised practicum and community-based internship.
Led by a faculty of experienced and supportive clinicians, the program is committed to preparing graduates who can address the unique mental health needs of Northern Ontario. "At its core, this program is about listening to and working with our community," said Dr. Teryn Bruni, Program Planning Lead and Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychology. "Every step of its design has been guided by local voices to ensure it truly reflects the realities and needs of people in Northern Ontario. Community partnership is the heart of the program and will be the key to its long-term success."
Last year, Algoma University convened a collaborative community planning session that brought together mental health leaders and stakeholders, including representatives from local community and Indigenous organizations across Northern Ontario. This session launched a series of ongoing consultations through four advisory committees, whose insights directly informed the program's structure, curriculum, practicum opportunities, and professional supports. "The result is a program that not only reflects academic excellence, but also responds directly to the service delivery needs identified by diverse communities across the North," shared Dr. Bruni.
The Master of Psychotherapy joins Algoma U's established suite of graduate programs, including the Master of Global Business and Economy, Master of Science in Business Analytics, Master of Science in Computer Science, Master of Computer Science, and Master of Science in Biology. Collectively, these programs strengthen Algoma University's academic presence and create new opportunities for students to study, work, and contribute to the communities of Northern Ontario.
Applications for the Master of Psychotherapy program are now open. Learn more and apply at algomau.ca, and watch for details about a community information session on November 10.
Additional Quotes
"The new Master of Arts in Psychotherapy program builds on Algoma U's foundation for inclusive, responsive education. It will not only prepare graduates to address urgent mental health needs but will also strengthen our university's role as a hub for healing, innovation, and collaboration in the North."
Dr. Brett Goodwin, Interim Vice-President Academic and Research"This program represents an important moment for Algoma University and for communities across Northern Ontario. By approving this program, the Senate is affirming the importance of accessible, high-quality graduate education that responds directly to the need for mental health professionals."
Dr. Nikki Shaw, Professor and Speaker of Algoma University Senate
**Prospective students are advised that offers of admission to a new program are made only following the University's own quality assurance processes, which are complete, and the Ontario Universities Council on Quality Assurance has approved the program.
