Recovery College
Providence Care’s Recovery College, located in Kingston, Ontario is an adult learning centre that supports mental health, wellness and recovery. The College offers free education and welcoming spaces for community members to connect, learn, and support each other. Courses are co-designed and co-delivered by healthcare and social service providers, alongside peer facilitators - people with lived experience of mental health challenges. Each course is interactive and provides a positive learning environment intended to foster personal empowerment and hope.
Who Can Join
A Recovery College is an innovative adult learning centre aimed to support people to become experts in their own mental health and wellness through education and peer support.
Everyone learns together in a supportive environment that reduces stigma and builds understanding.
It is for everyone, including those who have lived experience of mental illness challenges, their family members and friends. When appropriate, health care providers, and the broader community. All learn together and from each other, creating a space where barriers and stigma will be broken down.
What to Expect
Courses are co-led by peer trainers (people with lived experience) and mental health professionals. Topics include:
Understanding mental health and recovery
Building coping skills and resilience
Managing stress, anxiety, and emotions
Exploring identity, purpose, and self-care
Navigating relationships and communication
You choose courses that fit your interests and goals. Peer navigators are available to help you plan your learning journey.
View courses available in the Recovery College Student Handbook.
Key Benefits
Free and open to all adults:
No diagnosis or referral needed. Everyone is welcome.
Peer-led and recovery-focused:
Courses are co-designed and co-delivered by people with lived experience alongside health or social service professionals.
Flexible scheduling:
Seasonal terms make it easier to fit learning into your life.
Supportive, non-clinical environment:
We challenge stigma and create a safe space for learning and growth.
Empowering and practical:
Courses use adult education principles to help you gain knowledge, skills, and confidence.
Respect for your journey:
Your experiences and opinions matter; student feedback shapes our programs.
Community connections:
Build partnerships, access local supports, and connect with others who share your interests.
How to Enroll
This is a self-referral process; all enrollment must be completed by the student (with support if needed). If you are interested in becoming a student, please complete the Recovery College enrollment form and/or contact the Recovery College to arrange a time to meet with a coordinator:
Email the completed form to recoverycollege@providencecare.ca or fax to 613-540-6169.
A peer navigator will contact you to discuss your interests and help you get started.
For questions about referrals, contact the Recovery College at recoverycollege@providencecare.ca or at 613-540-6165, ext. 34401, 34402, or34340
FAQs
Who can attend Recovery College courses?
Anyone aged 18+ who is looking for support or who wants to explore their own wellness.
Those who are supporting family members or friends, as well as people working in the mental health field are welcome to attend. No referral is needed. Complete the Recovery College Enrollment Form.
What happens in a course?
Our courses are interactive, friendly, informative, and fun to help students in their recovery and wellness journey. Two people co-facilitate each course; one an education expert, and the other an expert with lived experience of the subject matter.
What courses will be offered?
Courses differ depending on semester and season, however some examples of courses are:
- Recovery 101
- Learning to Live with Stress
- Building Healthy Relationships
- Art-based workshops
- Self-compassion
- Activity Engagement: Getting Back into Life
See the Recovery College Student Handbook for more information.
Where will the courses be held?
The majority of courses are held at our main site at 533 Montreal St., Kingston ON. We also deliver courses in community venues across Kingston. Locations for each course can be found in the Recovery College Student Handbook.
How much do courses cost?
All courses are free. Registration is required before attending.
How is the Recovery College different from mental health support groups/programs?
Our courses offer a unique learning experience focused on collaboration and knowledge sharing, education, and creativity, to foster empowerment and hope. They are designed with input from peers and experienced educators, and informed by the community. Each course has clear learning outcomes and activities to help you explore and build resiliency. Each course is also co-facilitated by a peer facilitator, individuals with personal or family experience with a mental health concern.
What qualifications do I need to have to attend Recovery College?
None; all of our courses are open to anyone at all levels and during all stages of recovery. All that is required is an open mind and a willingness to participate.
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Contact Information
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Program Coordinators
Ellie Lambert: 613-540-6165 ext 34401
Jenna Sands: 613-540-6165 ext 34340
Peer Support Specialist
Steve McAvoy: 613-540-6165 ext 34402
