Community Mental Health Program

The Community Mental Health Program supports the emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual wellness of community members across the five First Nations we serve. Guided by a holistic and culturally grounded approach, our team provides confidential, compassionate care that honours both Western mental health practices and Anishnaabe traditional healing.

Our goal is to help individuals, families, and communities strengthen their mental wellness through counselling, advocacy, crisis support, and access to visiting specialists and traditional healers. Services are available for people of all ages and can be accessed directly or through referral from a healthcare provider.

What is a Mental Health Clinician?

A Mental Health Clinician is a healthcare professional who provides counselling, advocacy, and support to individuals experiencing mental health challenges such as depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance use concerns. Mental Health Clinicians work directly with clients to promote healing, resilience, and overall well-being.

How Can a Mental Health Clinician Help?

A Mental Health Clinician may assess, counsel, and refer clients for further care. They offer individualized treatment and support through:

  • Counselling and cognitive-based therapy
  • Development of personalized mental health care plans
  • Referrals to Traditional Healers or Psychiatrists
  • Advocacy and collaboration with other health care providers

The Mental Health Team Provides:

  • Individual, family, and group counselling
  • Follow-up and aftercare
  • Psychiatric referrals and consultations
  • Access to Traditional Healers
  • Support for community front-line workers
  • Coordinated care with external agencies and healthcare providers

The Mental Health Team Can Assist With:

  • Thoughts of suicide
  • Feelings of hopelessness, worthlessness, or helplessness
  • Depression and anxiety
  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
  • Mood disorders
  • Physical or verbal abuse
  • Bullying and self-esteem concerns
  • Substance misuse (alcohol or drugs)
  • Gambling concerns
  • Eating disorders
  • Memory loss or confusion
  • Community education and awareness

Contact Information

If you are seeking help or would like more information, please contact our Mental Health Lead at 705-368-2182 ext. 234.

If you are in crisis or need support outside regular hours, please contact:

  • Warm Line (6:00 pm – 10:00 pm): 1-866-856-9276
  • Crisis Line of Health Sciences North (24/7): 1-877-841-1101
  • 24-Hour Sexual Assault Line: 1-888-675-1323
  • Noojmowin Teg Sexual/Violence Crisis: 705-368-1369
  • Haven House (24-hour women and children’s shelter): 705-377-5160
  • Telehealth Ontario (24/7): 1-866-797-0000
  • Kids Help Phone (24/7): 1-800-668-6868 or www.kidshelpphone.ca
  • UCCMM Anishnaabe Police: 705-377-7135 (daytime) or dial 911
  • Talk4Healing (24/7 support for Indigenous Women): 1-855-554-4325
  • First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line (24/7): 1-855-242-3310 or www.hopeforwellness.ca
  • Canadian Trans Lifeline: 1-877-330-6366
  • LGBT National Hotline: 1-888-843-4564
  • LGBT National Youth Talk line: 1-800246-7743
  • Youth Line (2SLGBTQ+) Text: 1-647-694-4275