Behaviour Change Counselling Development Program (BCCDP)
Quick View: See the Fall 2026 - Winter 2027 learning pathways and workshop dates here.
A flexible, skill-building program designed for health professionals who support patients in making healthy, sustainable behaviour changes.
Developed by and for primary healthcare, BCCDP combines self-directed e-learning modules with live, instructor-led practice workshops. Grounded in motivational communication principles, the program is designed to enhance self-management support by building provider confidence, improving communication, and strengthening person-centred care.
BCCDP is a highly recommended professional development program for all primary healthcare staff — both clinical and non-clinical — and is now available in three tailored learning pathways.
Why This Matters
BCCDP equips healthcare professionals with practical, evidence-based tools to support behaviour change and allows them to focus their effort where change is most possible.
The program creates a foundation for effective, non-judgmental communication and change readiness, especially within primary healthcare.
BCCDP is aligned with the Chronic Disease Management and Wellness Strategy for primary healthcare and supports a culture of self-management across Nova Scotia. By empowering patients as active partners in their care, the program enhances care quality, supports autonomy, and contributes to a more sustainable, person-centred health system—one that respects the well-being and boundaries of both patients and providers.
As our population ages and the number of people living with chronic conditions continues to rise, supporting people to manage their health must be at the heart of how we deliver care. Prevention, wellness, and self-management support aren’t just best practices — they are essential if our health system is to meet the long-term needs of Nova Scotians.
How the Program Works
The Standard and Accelerated pathways use the same self-directed modules—the only difference is in the practice workshops. Standard offers a more in-depth experience with more time to practice, while Accelerated condenses learning into fewer workshops for quicker completion.
You must complete the modules in order — each builds on the last. For the best learning experience, complete the corresponding module(s) before attending each workshop.
Who Can Participate: Choose the Learning Pathway That Fits You
| Standard | Accelerated | CME-Accredited |
|---|---|---|
| Designed for all Nova Scotia Health & IWK Staff | Designed for Primary Health Care Staff | Designed for Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Residents |
| 8 learning modules 12 x 1 hour workshops | 8 learning modules 3 x 2 hour workshops | 8 learning modules 3 x 2 hour evening workshops |
| 20 hours over ~12 months | 14 hours over ~12 weeks | 14 hours over ~12 weeks |
| Best for focused skill development | Streamlined learning ideal for new hires, teams, or as a refresher | This program has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada and the Nova Scotia Chapter for up to 28.5 Mainpro+® credits. |
What Does Each Learning Pathway Look Like in Practice?
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How to Participate
| Standard & Accelerated Pathways | CME-Accredited Pathway |
|---|---|
| Log into LMS and search “PHC” or use course codes to find all modules and workshops for your pathway. | Modules and Workshops are not visible in LMS until you've registered here. |
| Register for: • Modules 1–8 (self-directed) • Practice workshops (choose dates/times that fit your schedule) | Modules will be assigned once you’ve registered. These are self-directed and can be completed at your convenience. |
| Complete modules and workshops in the appropriate order for your Standard or Accelerated learning pathway. | Watch your email for Zoom links and calendar invites to the scheduled CME-Accredited practice workshops. |
| For best learning, complete modules and workshops in the sequence outlined in the CME-Accredited learning pathway. |
Fall 2026/Winter 2027 Workshop Dates
Click to view or print the Fall 2026 - Winter 2027 flyer here, or view details below.
Standard Learning Pathway
- Workshop 3 – Motivational Argument, Ambivalence, and Rolling with Challenges:
Sept. 8, 3–4 p.m.
Jan. 7, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 11 – 4 Ss:
Sept. 17, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 12 – Replacing the Function and Emotion Management:
Oct. 8, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 4 – Defining Behaviour:
Oct. 13, 3–4 p.m.
Feb. 4, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 1 – Ask, Listen, Summarize, Invite:
Nov. 5, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 5 – Readiness Assessment:
Nov. 17, 3–4 p.m. - Workshop 2 – Non-judgmental Curiosity:
Dec. 3, 11 a.m.–Noon - Workshop 6 – Working with Red Lights:
Dec. 8, 3–4 p.m. - Workshop 7 – Working with Yellow Lights:
Jan. 12, 3–4 p.m. - Workshop 8 – Working with Green Lights:
Feb. 9, 3–4 p.m.
Accelerated Learning Pathway
- Workshop 1 – Motivational Communication:
Sept. 9, 2–4 p.m.
Sept. 18, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Oct. 14, 2–4 p.m.
Nov. 18, 2–4 p.m.
Dec. 4, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Dec. 9, 2–4 p.m.
Jan. 13, 2–4 p.m.
Feb. 5, 9:30–11:30 a.m. - Workshop 2 – Defining Behaviour and Readiness for Change:
Oct. 9, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
Feb. 10, 2–4 p.m. - Workshop 3 – Person-Centered Approaches to Behaviour Change:
Nov. 6, 9:30–11:30 a.m.
CME-Accredited Learning Pathway (Evenings)
This group and self-learning assessment program has been certified by the College of Family Physicians of Canada. Earn up to 28.5 certified Mainpro+® credits!
- Accredited CME Practice Workshop 1 – Foundations:
Oct. 8, 6:30–8:30 p.m. - Accredited CME Practice Workshop 2 – Building:
Nov. 5, 6:30–8:30 p.m. - Accredited CME Practice Workshop 3 – Comprehensive:
Dec. 3, 6:30–8:30 p.m.
Want to See the Results?
Read a program testimonial from Dr. Emmanuel Ajuwon here and view the 2023 BCCDP Evaluation Report here.
