Hero

Resources & Supports

Find the Supports You Need

Red Deer Polytechnic offers resources to support the well-being of our students and staff. From mental health services to LGBTQS2+ support, we're here to help you thrive.

Explore resources on campus and in the broader Red Deer Community below.

RDP Services and Supports | Crisis Supports | Mental Health Supports | Substance Use & Harm Reduction | LGBTQ2S+ Supports | Multicultural Supports | Domestic Violence & Gender and Sexual Based Violence | Career Supports | Additional Resources

Last Update: Feb 19, 2025

On-Campus Resources & Supports

RDP Services
RDP Services and Supports
Academic SupportFree tutoring for RDP students.Room 2006G (upstairs in the Library)
Accessibility ServicesAdvocate for accessible learning environments for students with documented disabilities affecting mobility, learning, and physical or mental health. 403.357.3629 accessibility@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1006 
Campus SecurityAssist with campus safety, distress intervention, Safewalk, and lost or stolen items. Non-Emergency: 403.342.3445
Emergency: 403.343.4000
Located at Room 1001
Career Education and Experience DevelopmentFree career services for students through resume and cover letter building, interview preparation, career planning and job search workshops. 403.342.3401 employmentservices@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1204 
Counselling Services Free and confidential counselling services for current students regarding mental health, addiction, trauma, etc. Free mental health education and events for students. 403.343.4064 counselling@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1402  
Parenting RoomQuiet and private space for students with children to care for their children while on campus.Room 2500L
Gary W. Harris Canada Games Centre Fitness facility for every skill level or fitness goal for students and the community. 403.356.5100
fitness@rdpolytech.ca
120 College Circle
Health and Wellbeing Services Offers first aid & emergency nursing services, as well as care for all illnesses & injuries. Health and safety education & promotion including mental health, sexual health, addictions, community referrals and compliance with occupational health and safety. Access to free safer sex supplies, naloxone kits & menstruation products.403.342.3427 campushealth@rdpolytech.ca
Room 901 
Indigenous Student Services Facilitates academic, social and cultural support for First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Non-Status learners. 403.357.3672 indigenous.services@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1009
International Student ServicesInformation on studying in Canada, study permits, registering for courses, arranging accommodations, tutorials, etc. 403.356.4941 international@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1009 
Learning Skills StrategistProfessional learning strategy assistance and guidance to help students thrive. 403.342.3136 kristine.parsons@rdpolytech.ca
Room 2006G (upstairs in the Library)
LibrarySupporting students in reaching and exceeding their academic goals, the Library offers assignment and research support, library materials, technology and study spaces.403.342.3344
Text: 403.800.8945 LibraryAnswers@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1006 
Mental Health & Wellbeing CoordinatorCoordinates Mental Health & Wellbeing promotion, prevention, educational events and training for students. Contact for RDP's Recovery on Campus Initiative. 403.343.4072
samantha.cooley-morrison@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1402
MindfulUStudents Supporting Students. One-on-one and group peer support being offered in the Peer Lounge mindfulu@rdpolytech.ca 
MyWellnessOnline counselling provided by the Students’ Association for all current students. 
Print CentrePrint and copy shop403.342.3302
printcentre@rdpolytech.ca
Room 800
Recovery On CampusRecovery on Campus is an all-paths-to-recovery initiative that focuses on ensuring RDP is a safe recovery campus. Through peer support, addiction and recovery education for staff and students and resources sharing/support, we are working to enhance the wellbeing of our entire campus community while increasing our recovery capital. 403.343.4072
samantha.cooley-morrison@rdpolytech.ca
 
Registrar OfficeAssist with academic schedule, add/drop classes, tuition refunds and grade appeals.403.342.3400
registrars@rdpolytech.ca 
Located in main hallway of RDP main campus
Regulation StationsQuiet and private spaces on campus equipped with art materials, fidgets, handouts, and resources for students experiencing distress. Located Counselling Services, Testing Services and the 1200 wing.403.343.4064 counselling@rdpolytech.ca
ResidenceEvents, resources and information for students in residence.403.342.3257
residence@rdpolytech.ca
109 College Circle
Serenity RoomQuiet place for students and staff to pray, meditate or reflect.Room 2400
Students’ AssociationSupport with appeal process, lockers/handbooks, used bookstore, benefits plan, clubs and societies, food bank and housing.403.342.3200
sageneral@rdpolytech.ca
Room 2010
Student Care CoordinatorProvides support for students facing complex personal or academic challenges, including referrals and planning for on-campus or community resources. Acts as the main contact for sexual and gender-based violence, offering confidential support, safety planning, and help with reporting and accommodations. Also supports students and faculty with nonacademic misconduct concerns. Refer students experiencing significant life changes, medical transitions, early distress, or concerning behavior. studentsupports@rdpolytech.ca 
Students Connect Centre Assist with academic advising, financial support, emergency student funding, program requirements, course selection and academic planning/withdrawals.403.342.3254
studentconnect@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1102
Student Supports Intake Provides wrap around supports and referrals to students facing any barriers such as crisis management, mental health, accessibility, safety concerns, financial concerns, basic needs, social and cultural needs.403.343.4064
counselling@rdpolytech.ca
Room 1402
Testing Services Provide internal and external exam administration and invigilation services for courses.403.342.3292
testing@rdpolytech.ca
Room 940
RDP SAFE AppOfficial safety app for RDPAvailable on App Store and Google Play 

Red Deer Community Resources & Supports

Crisis Supports
Crisis Supports
Alberta Emergency ServicesPolice, fire, or medical emergencies for immediate support911
Alberta Health Services Addictions HotlineReferral service for problem use with alcohol and substances24/7 Line: 1.866.332.2322
Sendero CentreProvides counselling, education, crisis response and court support. Assistance and safe environment for children and families.403.340.1124
24/7 Text Line: 1.866.956.1099
Suicide Crisis Helpline24/7 support line for suicide preventionCall or text 988
Hope for Wellness Helpline24/7 immediate crisis support in English, French, Cree, Ojibway and Inuktitut855.242.3310
RCMP Red Deer City DetachmentPolice for emergencies, safety checks and suicide, and reporting abuse or violence.

Non-emergency line

403.406.2200

For administration

403.406.2300

For emergencies call 911

Mental Health Supports
Mental Health Supports
Canadian Mental Health AssociationMental illness, brain injury, and addiction support, education and advocacy403.342.2266
Catholic Social ServicesIndividual counseling and family support403.347.8844
CAMH: Mental Illness & Addiction IndexThe Mental Illness & Addiction Index helps to provide clear, reliable information about mental illness and addiction, including treatment and recovery options.  
Central Alberta Recovery CollegeClasses and group counselling for mental health403.967.0475
The Outreach CentreSupport and education for suicide, grief, domestic violence, family law, family crisis and housing403.347.2480
Family Services of Central AlbertaIndividual, couple and family counselling403.343.6400
Government of Canada: Mental Health SupportMental Health related resources and supports based on province. 
Kids Help Phone24/7 support line for counselling, information, referrals and more

800.668.6868

Text line

686868 (Youth) 

741741 (Adult)

National Eating Disorders Association24/7 support line for individuals affected by eating disordersToll Free: 1.866.633.4220 
Police & Crisis Team (PACT)Mobile mental health crisis response outreach teams with an RPM and RCMP officer403.406.2505
Red Deer Primary Care NetworkCounselling and support groups for anxiety, sleep, happiness and relationships403.343.9100
Red Deer Regional HospitalMedical treatment for physical or mental illness403.343.4422
Schizophrenia Society of AlbertaSupport for those affected by schizophrenia403.342.5760
Social ShiftWe aim to bridge the gap in mental health care by offering a diverse team of Registered Psychologists, Certified Canadian Counsellors, Registered Social Workers, and Practicum Students. 
Vantage Community ServicesCounselling services, transitional housing for youth, life skills training and in-house treatment for mental health issues403.340.8995
211 AlbertaAn exploration of additional resources and supports, including referral service for financial, social, housing, food, disability, volunteer, mental health and more.211
Substance Use & Harm Reduction
Substance Use & Harm Reduction
Alberta Health Services Addictions Hotline Referral service for problem use with alcohol and substances24-Hour Line: 1.866.332.2322
Alberta Virtual Opioid Dependency Program (VODP)Access to treatment for opioid dependency. Free App to notify emergency personnel of overdose while using1.844.383.7688
Addictions and Mental Health Services (AHS)Addiction, mental health and disordered eating services. Drop-in counselling Monday to Friday403.340.5466
Central Alberta FASD Network Awareness, prevention, education and restorative justice about FASD and for those with FASD403.342.7499
Turning Point

Harm reduction and health promotion services and connection program for LGBTQ2S+ community. 

Website is currently under construction, still available by phone.

403.346.8858
LGBTQ2S+ Supports
LGBTQ2S+ Supports
Central Alberta Pride Society Offers LGBTQ2SI+ resources, events and peer supportContact 
CMHA Alberta Division | 2SLGBTQ+ Resources & InformationResources & Information to support a variety of inquiries. alberta@cmha.ab.ca
Transgender LifelineDedicated to the wellbeing of transgender people especially when they are experiencing crisis1.877.330.6366
Turning Point

Harm reduction and health promotion services and connection program for LGBTQ2S+ community

Website is currently under construction, still available by phone.

403.346.8858
Queer Neighbours Society of Red DeerA support and advocacy group for the 2SLGBTQIA community in Red Deer and Central Alberta area that offers events and education opportunities.   
Multicultural Supports
Multicultural Supports
Alberta Indigenous Virtual Care ClinicAny Indigenous persons can see a doctor by video or phone call for non-urgent issues1.888.342.4822
Canadian Muslim CounsellingVirtual counselling with therapists who have formal training in Islamic Sciences and counselling437.886.6309
Catholic Social Services Cross-Cultural CounsellingOffers supports for settlement, families, Canadian Culture, English, training, employment and cross cultural counselling. Contact Edmonton office for more information on services 780.424.3545
Central Alberta Immigrant Women’s AssociationSupport and awareness for immigrants and their families in all aspects of Canadian life403.341.3553
 
Care for NewcomersEducation, support and resources/connections for new Canadians403.346.8818
Central Alberta Women’s Emergency ShelterSafe refuge, personal counselling and community support for families experiencing violence403.346.5643 
 
Healing in ColourOffers an online directory of therapists who identify as Black, Indigenous, and people of colour to help find culturally relevant therapy and other mental health resources. Video sessions are available. 
Indigenous Residential School Support Line24/7 support line for residential school survivors1.866.925.4419
Indigenous Psychological ServicesOffers psychological and counselling services for Indigenous, BIPOC, and Non-Indigenous people. Online formats are offered to provide services to all communities and populations in Alberta.  
MiskanawahAn Indigenous-leg organization based out of Calgary that offers programs and services in family support, youth services, clinical and cultural mental health supports, crisis support, housing support, and cultural and ceremonial supports.   
Native Counselling Services of AlbertaHousing, mental health and cultural services for Indigenous People by Indigenous People403.347.4377
Red Deer Native Friendship SocietyCultural programs, health, social services, housing support, education, cultural connections403.340.0020
Red Deer Urban Aboriginal Voices SocietyDialogue facilitation, combat issues and concerns enhance community development and establish regular gatherings403.505.4049
Domestic Abuse & Sexual and Gender Based Violence Supports
Domestic Abuse & Sexual and Gender Based Violence Supports
Bullying HelplineSupport line for victims of bullying or abuse888.456.2323
24-Hour Text or Call Line: 310.1818
Catholic Social Services Morning Star Program

The program supports women to address self-identified barriers in their lives. This can include attending appointments, assisting with applications and paperwork, locating mental and physical health professionals, finding additional supports, and helping navigate other resources and systems. 

Drop-In Centre: Morning Star's drop-in program is a safe place for women to get off the streets, to use laundry and shower facilities, and access other necessities, as needed. Hours for the drop-in centre vary, please call for the schedule. 

403.347.8844
Central Alberta Child Advocacy CentreAssistance and safe environment for children and families587.272.2233
Sendero CentreCrisis counselling, medical, police and court support403.340.1124
24/7 Text Line: 1.866.956.1099
Central Alberta Women’s Emergency ShelterSafe refuge, personal counselling and community support for families experiencing violence403.346.5643
Child Abuse HotlineReport line for suspected child abuse800.387.5437
Family Violence Info LineSupport line for individuals experiencing family violence403.310.1818
One-LineToll-free talk-text-chat service that connects individuals that have been impacted by sexual violence for specialized support operated through the Association of Alberta Sexual Assault Services.Call or Text between 9am -9pm 1.866.403.8000
Red Deer Sexual Health Clinic (Red Deer 49th Street Community Health Centre)Sexual Health Clinic provides sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing diagnosis and treatment, HIV Prep, birth control, pregnancy testing, care after sexual assault (excluding forensic evidence collection), and support. Confidential testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is available for all ages. 

403.346.8336

Toll-Free: 1.888.346.9414

Red Deer RCMP Sex Crimes UnitInvestigate crimes of a sexual nature, including those perpetrated against children. The goal of the unit is to provide trauma-informed, victim-centered service to survivors of sexual violence. 

403.406.2200 

For emergencies call 911

Additional options within Red Deer RCMP Sex Crimes Unit Resource

Third Party Option: Allow survivors of sexual assault to have evidence collected by trained Sexual Assault Nurses who store evidence for up to one year. During this one-year period, the victim has the opportunity to decide if they feel comfortable making a report to the police. 

The Supportive Reporting Program: For survivors of historical sexual assault that never reported the incident. Allows survivors to discuss options with a trauma-informed, plain clothes police officer at a non-police station location. A Sendero Centre worker is able to stay with the survivor throughout the entire process. 

 
Career Supports
Career Supports
ALIS AlbertaCareer planning, training, look for work, tools and resources1.877.644.9992
Bredin Employment CentreServices to assist with finding employment and housing587.273.0225
Career CatalystsResume building, job searching, career consulting, coaching, cover letters, interview preparation, etc.403.348.9025
Community Career Supports ListA list of Career Supports created by CEED. 
Employment Placement and Support Services (EPSS)Employment placement services for employees and support for families and individuals with disabilities. Provides one on one, in-person, or virtual support for career services, assists in finding, preparing and maintaining employment403.343.6249
Online Career Development ResourcesA list of Career Development Supports created by CEED. 
Financial Supports
Financial Supports
Alberta Credit CounsellingNon-profit consumer credit and debt counselling service that provides assistance with debts, money management, and interest relief through counselling services and financial education. 1.888.527.8999
Money MentorsNon-profit credit counselling agency that provides services such as credit counselling, online courses and other resources regarding finances and money. 1.888.294.0076
RBC on CampusA financial literacy center for students with advisors available to provide assistance with balancing books, life and a budget. 403.755.3988
RDP Student Connect CentreProvides RDP students with support in planning for your education and offers services for academic advising, funding advising and scholarships and awards information.  
Additional Resources
Additional Resources
Central Alberta Pregnancy Care Centre for mothers and fathersSupport and education for childbirth, abortion, and adoption

403.343.1611

24-hour helpline: 1.844.343.1611

Centre for Public Legal Education Alberta (CPLEA)CPLEA will try to provide you with information about what the law is and where to go for help with your legal problems. CPLEA cannot give you legal advice about your specific situation.  
Community Legal ClinicFree legal advice and referrals403.314.9129
Legal Aid AlbertaFree legal information and referrals866.845.3425
The Mustard SeedCommunity support centre for shelter, meals, clothing and necessities, and spiritual care1.833.448.4673
Nimbus LearningRed Deer Polytechnic’s Students Association partnered with Nimbus Learning to provide students with tutoring support for as many courses as possible for RDP.   
Red Deer Food BankImmediate food requirements403.342.5355
Red Deer Housing AuthorityTemporary finding for individuals in core housing need403.343.2177
Safe HarbourEmergency shelter services, support services and housing services, resources, and support for extended family403.347.0181
Voice of Albertans with DisabilitiesProvides disability related services such as AISH, CPPD, LAP, Taxes, DTC, OAC, Alberta Health Benefits, advocacy for Albertans with Disabilities and helps facilitate Human Rights Complaints Processes780.488.9088
Dress for SuccessCommunity connection to professional clothing and support for women403.597.8769
Free Meal Schedule Red DeerSee Red Deer Food Bank Website 
Red Deer Food MapAn online map designed to help you find local food resources, producers and initiatives that support food security in our community.  
211 Alberta24/7 provincial resource database available online, via text or over the phone in over 170 different languages. Call or Text 211

 

RDP Resource List Updates

Although our team works diligently to update our resources, we recognize information and programs can evolve and change within our communities. We want to keep our resources for staff and students as relevant as possible and appreciate your help in doing so.  If you notice any outdated or incorrect information within our shared information, please complete the following form or be in touch with the Mental Health Education Coordinator.

Please submit any updates or additions you identify on our resource list. 

This could include: 

  • Revisions to a currently listed resource
  • A service or resource you feel holds great value to our staff or students that isn't currently listed
Submit Revisions