Early Intervention for Mental Health and Addictions

During my years of experience and training I have gained a particular interest in early intervention in mental health. The benefits of receiving care when difficulties are emerging are just as important as receiving early care for physical problems. I have specialized training in working with teens and young adults who are experiencing their first challenges with mental health and addictions.

Youth is a time for setting our future trajectory. It is an exciting and stressful time for creating our independence. In this life stage we seek our identity, relationships, academic pursuits, and career options. Youth provides for the greatest amount of opportunity in our lifespan, but also provides the greatest amount of risk for developing mental health problems. Early intervention helps to prevent suffering of the youth, suffering of the family, and damage to self-esteem and self-identity. The sooner someone gets help, the better.

Australia is the international leader in providing early intervention in mental health services. Australian statistics report that 75% of all adult mental health and related disorders emerge before the age of 25.

Currently, Canada supports early intervention in psychosis and more recently mood disorders (in some parts of Canada). However, we are a long way from having a health system that identifies and meets the needs of youth who are experiencing their first challenges with mental health and addiction problems.

If you are a youth or a family member of a youth in need, please contact me for an initial assessment. With your assistance we can take every step necessary to ensure the best care is being provided. I have extensive experience in working with youth and families (GP and family involvement is preferred). If needed, I will also assist you in accessing medical care and community resources.