Work

Working in Mental Health in Nova Scotia

Real opportunities to build your professional future

Are you completing a program in nursing, social work, psychology, or occupational therapy? Make a real difference right from the start of your career by joining the Mental Health and Addictions team at Nova Scotia Health.

A Stimulating Professional Environment

You’ll be part of a comprehensive, person-centred mental health system designed to meet people where they are in their care journey. Services range from mental health promotion to community-based support, and extend to the most intensive levels of inpatient psychiatric care.

Explore the Mental Health and Addictions programs

A rewarding interprofessional approach

You’ll work within a multidisciplinary team where collaboration is encouraged and valued. This approach helps you gain a broad, holistic understanding of care and develop strong clinical skills.

Wait Times Among the Best in the Country

Access to mental health services in Nova Scotia is timely and responsive.

Check current wait times and compare them with your province!

Personalized Support and Real Benefits

Nova Scotia Health has concrete measures in place to support early-career professionals. Whether you’ve just graduated or are about to, you’ll benefit from structured guidance to help you integrate smoothly and grow professionally.

Personalized onboarding and support

  • Initial training (1–2 years) to strengthen your clinical skills
  • Help with licensing and credential recognition
  • Logistical support from the community partners to help you settle in Nova Scotia (health card, housing, etc.)

Supervised clinical placements

To encourage new professionals to settle in Nova Scotia, several incentives are available:

  • Guidance from experienced professionals
  • Exposure to diverse clinical environments
  • Opportunities to apply theory in real-life situations

Mentorship and peer support

• One-on-one mentorship from seasoned professionals
• Peer learning and knowledge-sharing communities
• Ongoing supervision and guidance

Ongoing clinical education

Thanks to our resources, such as the Learning Institute and the Provincial Centre for Training, Education, and Learning (PCTEL), you’ll have access to cutting-edge training in topics such as:

  • Cognitive Behavioural Therapy
  • Dialectical Behaviour Therapy
  • Suicide risk assessment
  • Training on Nova Scotia’s mental health legislation

Valuable employee benefits

  • Health and dental insurance
  • Pension plan
  • Corporate discounts
  • Flexible schedules, paid leave, and a focus on workplace wellness

Financial Incentives to Support Your Move

To encourage new professionals to settle in Nova Scotia, several incentives are available:

  • Signing bonuses – Up to $10,000
  • Relocation support – Up to $5,000

Explore Job Opportunities

View current job openings

Did you know?

In Nova Scotia, clinical therapists generally require a master’s degree in social work, psychology, counselling, occupational therapy, or nursing.