How do I get to see you?
Most mental health services are structured to meet the needs of a particular community. It is usually best to receive mental health services that are close to your home as some treatment requires regular attendance at the clinic. If you are unsure of what services are available in your own community we can help connect you. If we are unable to readily provide you service - we will provide you with information about where you can obtain services based on your needs.
If you have a family physician, it is best to have your family physician refer you to us. The rationale behind this is that most family physicians treat mental health problems and may be able to assist you without needing our services. Another reason is that some mental health problems appear to be 'psychiatric' but may actually be medical disorders that can be easily remedied. Your family physician may do some bloodwork or investigations to make sure that there is not a complicating medical problem that has been missed.
Your family physician can obtain one of our referral forms by calling us. The referral form can then be faxed to us (905)309-4446.
If you do not have a family physician or there is some other problem that is getting in the way of you having a physician refer you to our service then simply call us and we will help you find a solution. We are not well equipped for 'drop-in' services because staff are scheduled seeing patients throughout the day. The best thing to do is call.
Consulting to physicians
If you are a family physician or medical practitioner working in the West Niagara area and need advice or assistance with a patient who is either involved or not involved with our services - we can often provide recommendations on the phone through staff and/or one of our psychiatrists. Not every mental health problem requires the comprehensive assessments that we complete and some problems can be handled through consultation.
