Perinatal Mental Health Pathway
The York Region Perinatal Mental Health Pathway is a comprehensive tool designed to help health care professionals refer clients to the appropriate mental health programs and services for York Region residents. The Perinatal Mental Health Pathway recognizes the diverse needs of clients, particularly when it comes to mental health in the perinatal period. By providing access to a broad range of service options, clients are more likely to receive the right care at the right time.
In 2023, York Region partnered with Stepped Care Solutions to implement the Stepped Care 2.0© (SC2.0) approach. The goal of this collaboration was to update our 2018 Perinatal Mental Health Pathway and enhance access to perinatal mental health services for York Region residents by reducing or eliminating wait times, expanding options and minimizing barriers to care.
Clients or healthcare professionals can contact Health Connection for free, confidential telephone support at 1-800-361-5653, chat live at york.ca/NurseChat or by email to @email
How to use this Pathway to services
Assess Risk:
Screen Using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale Validated Tool
Complete a Wellness Self-Check
What is the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale?
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) is a validated tool recommended for the routine screening of individuals for perinatal depression and/or anxiety. The EPDS is a ten-item questionnaire that indicates if there is a need for further assessment and/or intervention. The EPDS is valid for use with adolescents and adults who are: pregnant, mothers, fathers, adoptive parents, parents of toddlers, and who speak other languages (validated translations of the EPDS).
The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale is not intended to provide a diagnosis and should be completed with a qualified health care professional.
When administering the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) with your clients, please use the EPDS tool without scoring. Afterwards, use the EPDS scoring tool to calculate your client's overall EPDS score. If your client declines the EPDS encourage them to complete a wellness self-check
This Pathway to services is based on the EPDS scoring tool with colours and steps representing intervention intensity. Resource and support intensity may be stepped up or down according to where clients are on their journey of mental wellness and readiness, along with conversations with their health care professional.
After administering the EPDS or wellness self-check, refer to the resources below and select the stage in the drop down that corresponds to your client’s score to view filtered stepped care programs and services to best meet your clients' needs.
Note: Crisis and acute care services may be accessed at any time, including if a client expresses thoughts of self-harm, infant harm, or suicide
Green Pathway
Score 9 and under
Mild or few, but persistent symptoms, minimal impact on day-to-day function. Consider risk factors, clinical judgement and client willingness regarding rescreening
Related Supports and Resources for Green Pathway
Step 1 - Information and Health Teaching
Providing information and supporting mental health literacy.
| Mental Health and Wellness in Pregnancy and Parenthood | Provides information, resources and program related to Perinatal Mood and Anxiety disorders |
| A New Mother’s Emotions | Guide to understanding maternal mental health |
| Circle of Support | Learn how Having a support system can also lessen the stresses of pregnancy and parenting |
| Self-Care Plan | Follow a self care plan of REST |
| Parenting | Provides information, programs and services related to parenting |
| Health Information Line | Public health nurses provide confidential health teaching, parenting information and referrals for the Healthy Babies Healthy Children Program, infant feeding clinics and perinatal mental health support. The program is accessed through 1-800-361-5653 or via live chat – york.ca/nursechat |
| Healthy Babies Healthy Children | A free home visiting program supporting eligible families who are pregnant, or have children up to six years of age. To access the program, please call Health Connection 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-252-9933 |
| Breastfeeding Clinic | One-to-one breastfeeding support and teaching with a nurse who has breastfeeding expertise. Call Health Connection 1-800-361-5653 to book an appointment. Virtual and in-person options available |
| Early ON Child and Family Centre | Early learning and parenting programs for families with children birth to six years of age. 1-800-387-5514 or 416-325-2929 TTY 1-800-268-7095 or 416-325-3408 |
| 811 Health Connect Ontario | Registered Nurses provide health care support by telephone 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 811 or TTY 1-866-797-0007 |
| 211 Ontario | Find community and social services |
| Ontario Mental Health Helpline | Provides free health services information, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Interpreter services are available. 1-866-531-2600 |
| Pacific Post Partum Support Society | Provides information and helpful videos for mothers experiencing a difficult pregnancy or postpartum adjustment, including postpartum depression and anxiety |
| Uphub | Up Hub is York Region’s go-to online and print community resource navigator for local social services in mental health, addictions, and developmental disabilities, as well as a peer-based platform for people to share their stories and uplifting experiences to help others |
| Hope + Me Support. Recovery. Community Mood Disorders Association of Ontario | Fact sheet about Mood Disorders |
| Postpartum Support International | Provides information, social support and informed professional care to deal with mental health issues related to childbearing |
| Help for Dads | Information and resources for fathers |
| Fathers Mental Health | Inventory of websites and resources related to parenting for fathers |
Step 2 - Informational Self-Help
Activities that involve a small level of commitment and interaction but are self-directed, done at the person's own time and pace, with minimal investment.
| Canadian Mental Health Association - Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program | An internet-based program focused on online, CBT modules with support from a Clinician through secure texting. Local Ontario Structured Psychotherapy services are offered in multiple languages |
| The Pregnancy & Postpartum Anxiety Workbook | Book available on line for free. Practical Skills to Help Overcome Anxiety, Worry, Panic Attacks, Obsessions, and Compulsions |
| Big White Wall | Online mental health and well-being service offering self-help programs and creative outlet when dealing with everyday stressors and life events. The site is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year |
| Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention | CASP strives to offer an array of informational products, educational resources and communications materials, developed both in-house and by others, on the important topics of suicide prevention, suicide awareness, life promotion and mental health |
Yellow Pathway
Score 10-12
Multiple symptoms, persistent, impacting day-to-day function and quality of life. It is recommended that the health care professional repeats the EPDS with the client in two to four weeks.
Related Supports and Resources for Yellow Pathway
(in addition to the resource listed in the Green Pathway)
Step 3 - Peer Support and Workshops
People with lived experience provide mental health support through sharing and active listening. This can be both formal (trained) and informal (not trained).Peer support can be mental health focused, or general support that provides opportunities for social connection. Workshops are educational and informative. There is a commitment required from the participant and planning and skill required of the workshop facilitator.
| Postpartum Support International | Peer Support; California Based; on line format with users all over the world; various support groups: Queer & Trans Parents, Postpartum Psychosis |
| Life With A Baby peer led HOPE groups | Peer support system to provide ongoing practical and emotional peer-based support for new and expectant parents and parents of children up to the age of six. 416-833-3860 |
| Family Services York Region Language Specific Groups | FSYR provides free Women’s support groups in a variety of languages such as Tamil, Farsi, Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi |
| Togetherall | Offers a diverse and safe online peer support community |
| Check Up from the Neck Up Moods Disorders Association of Ontario | Drop-in peer support groups, recovery programs, family and youth clinical support, early intervention for mood disorders and psychosis and online tools focused on wellness and recovery |
| Jewish Family and Child Service of Greater Toronto | Changing Family/Separation and Divorce, Parenting, Life Skills, Health & Wellness, Bereavement |
| Jewish Rainbow Alliance | A drop-in support group for parents, family members and allies of LGBTQ+ individuals |
| Talk 4 Healing | 1-855-554-4325 support for indigenous women in 14 languages 24 hours a day |
| Hope+Me - Mood Disroders of Ontario LGBTQ Peer Support Group | The LGBTQ Peer Support group for anyone identifying as part of the LGBTQ+ community living with mental health challenges and looking for support from a group of empathetic peers |
| Help for Queer & Trans Parents | PSI offers specialized support for queer families with weekly Queer & Trans Families Support Groups and a specialized Support Coordinator for members of the LGBTQIA+ community |
| Bereaved Families of Ontario | Provides compassionate non-denominational mutual aid support for families and individuals who have lost a significant person to death. 1-800-969-6904 or 905-898-6265 |
| Pregnancy and Infant Loss Network | Provides support services to bereaved parents and their families. 1-888-301-7276 or 905-472-1807 |
| Still Mothers | provides support and resources for families who have experienced the death of a baby (ies) and are living without a child to raise |
| North York General Hospital Late Loss Support Group | Free, open virtual support group providing opportunity to share experiences and connect with other parents who have experienced a recent (within the past year) late pregnancy loss or neonatal death. Self-referrals accepted; Individuals do not need to be a NYGH patient to attend the group |
| Mount Sinai Hospital Late Loss Bereavement Support Group | for women who have experienced a recent (within the past year) late pregnancy loss, including spontaneous loss and loss due to incompatibility with life |
Step 4 - Professionally Guided Self-Help
A blended care model that involves both self-directed reading and resources, plus regular support from a care provider like a coach, social worker or other type of professional, either online, phone, or in-person.
| BounceBack® | BounceBack® is a free skill-building program managed by the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA). It is designed to help adults and youth 15+ manage low mood, depression, anxiety, stress or worry. Delivered over the phone with a coach and through online videos |
| ConnexOntario | ConnexOntario provides free and confidential health services information for people experiencing problems with alcohol and drugs, mental illness or gambling by connecting them with services in their area |
| MindBeacon | Offers virtual guided CBT programs |
| AbilitiCBT | Fee for service therapy for generalized anxiety and depression |
| Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program | Participants receive weekly, 30-minute telephone sessions with a Clinician, and are guided through a gold-standard CBT self-help workbook |
Step 5 - Group Therapy
Group psychotherapy involving regular and ongoing participation for a set number of sessions. A level of commitment is required of the participant and the group is led by a professional.
| Transition to Parenting | FREE Virtual Cognitive Behavioural Therapy group for mothers with babies up to one year of age or those pregnant who are experiencing mild to moderate mood changes, including anxiety or depression. To register for the group, please call Health Connection 1-800-361-5653 or TTY 1-866-512-6228 |
| Family Services York Region Group Programs | An 8-week group for adults that focuses on skill development and experiential learning in the areas of recognizing, understanding, labeling, expressing, and regulating emotions |
| Life With A Baby | Offer two types of mental health counselling, group therapy with our peer led HOPE groups, and individual counselling with counselling students |
| Community Family Services of Ontario | Group therapy to individuals and family members through parenting groups, problem gambling program, violence against women program, disabilities and special needs support and rehabilitation groups, partner assault response program, and youth program |
| COSTI - Learning Together Women's Depression Group | COSTI's Learning Together Women's Depression Group is an open psycho-educational support group offered to Italian-speaking women diagnosed with depression. Women can be referred through their family physicians or community health providers. Self referrals are accepted |
| Mt Sinai Postpartum Support Group | This group is for women who are at-risk for, or who are currently suffering from, postpartum anxiety and/or depression. This group is for women following delivery and up to one year postpartum |
| Mother Matters | MOTHER MATTERS is an 8-week online support group run by the Mental Health Program at Women’s College Hospital |
| Mindfulness Group Therapy Program | Offered by Mt. Sinai Hospital. Serves perinatal mental health patients who would benefit from mindfulness therapy. Physician referral required |
| Postpartum support group North York General | Virtual support group is for individuals who are experiencing symptoms of postpartum anxiety, postpartum depression and/or would like support with coping with a newborn |
| Oak Valley Health | Women’s Wellness services | Women’s Wellness offers group programs to support women’s health by providing therapies to improve quality of life such as Art Therapy Group, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Group, Interpersonal Psychotherapy Group (IPT) and Postpartum Depression |
| Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program | Offers Group CBT with a clinician |
| Canadian Mental Health Association: Group based clinical therapy | Clients in York Region and South Simcoe with serious mental health issues who are motivated to attend groups/workshops and not looking for individual counselling/psychotherapy |
| Oak Valley Health BRIDGE Day Program | Located at one of Oak Valley Health’s satellite locations, The Wellness Clinic, the B.R.I.D.G.E. Day Treatment Program is a structured, psycho-educational, group-based program serving the Mental Health system of Oak Valley Health. The program encourages and supports the re-integration of learned life skills into real life situations |
| Oak Valley Health: Outpatient Group Programs | Oak Valley Health offers a variety of types of group therapy in their Outpatient Mental Health Program. A referral from a physician or nurse practitioner is required unless otherwise specified. Referrals that include group requests will require an intake by an intake worker. The type of group delivery (in-person or virtual) is determined at the group orientation |
Orange Pathway
Score 13 and over
Many symptoms, persistent, significant impact on day-to-day function and quality of life. It is recommended that a referral be made to a health care professional for diagnostic assessment.
This level of care often involves a higher level of commitment and the involvement of a mental health specialist such as a psychiatrist or psychologist. It can include case management and remaining in the care of another health professional (social worker, physician, nurse, etc.). This step can include outpatient, transitional, and ongoing programming.
Note: Crisis and acute care services may be accessed at any time such as 9-8-8, 1-855-310-COPE (2673) or 911
Related Supports and Resources for Orange Pathway
Step 6 - Individual Therapy
| Find a Family Doctor of Nurse Practitioner | Find a family doctor, nurse practitioner or specialist. Can also have a nurse find a doctor or nurse practitioner through link to Health Care Connect program. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Find a Psychologist | Use this search tool to find a psychologist or psychological associate in Ontario. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Find a Psychotherapist | ONTARIO Psychotherapy & Counselling College. Find a psychotherapist in the directory by location. Option to submit an online referral form or call the Referral Line |
| Find a Social Worker | Online directory of social workers in private practice in Ontario, Canada. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Find a Marriage and Family Therapist | Online tool to find a marriage and family therapist. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Find a CBT Therapist - The Canadian Association of Cognitive and Behavioural Therapies - CACBT | Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) is a practical, short-term form of psychotherapy. It helps people to develop skills and strategies for becoming and staying healthy. The CACBT certifies CBT therapists. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Health 8-1-1 | Connect with a registered nurse day or night for free, secure and confidential health advice |
| Family Services York Region Virtual Walk-In | The Virtual Walk-In is an opportunity for those who live and work in York Region to speak to a therapist the same day or next day. Immediate access or by appointment; one of the services listed on FSYR website |
| Catholic Community Services of Single Session/Walk-in | Single session/walk-in counselling program is ideal for creating a short-term care plan for individuals, couples, and families. Open to all persons of all faiths. Offers phone, video or in-person support |
| Catholic Community Services of York Region-Ongoing Counselling | Offers goal-focused counselling over a few weeks or months. Open to persons of all faiths. Individual, youth, couple and family counselling available |
| Life With A Baby - Mental Health Counselling | Offer two types of mental health counselling, group therapy with peer-led HOPE groups, and individual counselling. Must be over the age of 18 to receive support. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Jewish Family and Child Service of Greater Toronto | Counselling and group support with a fee for service. Open to all persons of all faiths. Cliet to contact Intake team |
| Family Services York Region Counselling for 2SLGBTQ+ Individuals | Delivers services for Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Two Spirit, Queer and Questioning individuals. The York Rainbow Support network is aimed at reducing barriers and building capacity to serve the 2SLGBTQ+ Communities. Client to call directly for service: York Rainbow Support Line: 1-888-York-LGBT (1-888-967-5542) |
| Family Services York Region Individual Counselling for Adults | Individual counselling for adults to assist in coping with the stresses that can cause anxiety, depression and conflict. Various services offered |
| Women's Centre of York Region | Programs, counselling and support services to women affected by abuse or financial difficulties. No fee for services. Client to call Intake line directly (20-30 min to complete intake form) 1-855-853-9270 or 905-853-927 |
| St. Joseph's Health Centre and Mount Sinai Hospital- Toronto | Consultation and Treatment Service for expecting, new and fathers with young children. This service provides a comprehensive outpatient assessment on a consultative basis. The assessment process may include a telephone intake interview followed by an assessment by a psychiatrist |
| Community Family Services of Ontario-Mental Health Counselling Program | This program provides counselling and therapy to individuals and families who are challenged by emotional, psychological, psychosocial, addictions, mental health, and behavioural issues. Need to contact service directly |
| Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center - Women's Mood and Anxiety Clinic: Reproductive Transitions | Clinic focusing on the assessment and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Focus on pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and postmenopause. Outpatient and inpatient services are provided |
| Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences - Women's Health - Treatment and Recovery | Treatment through the Women’s Clinic involves psychotherapy such as Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) or Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT). Follow up with a clinician weekly for 12 to 16 sessions. Located in Whitby, In-patient and virtual services also available |
| Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences - Women's Health - Make a Referral | All referrals to Ontario Shores are received by a triage nurse in Central Intake. An interprofessional team of intake and specialized clinicians work collaboratively with medical staff to provide prompt feedback on all referrals that include disposition, supported system navigation and recommended next steps. Patients are referred to the most appropriate service based on individual criteria. Each program or service will have its own criteria for referral source and eligibility. Self-referral or HCP referral available |
| CAMH Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP) Program | Adults in Ontario who have depression, anxiety and anxiety-related conditions can access publicly funded, short-term, evidence-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) with a psychotherapist through the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP) Program. Self-referral or HCP referral form linked . Other languages available |
| Cedar Centre | Provides a holistic approach to therapy, education and advocacy for those who have experienced trauma. Multiple programs available. Need to contact Intake coordinator: 1-800-263-2240 or 905-853-3040 |
| Vaughan Community Health Center | Short term individual, couples and family counselling. Support with managing emotions, chronic mental & physical health issues, trauma, life stressors, work/life balance, family issues, isolation. Services provided by psychologists and RSWs. In-person or virtual services. HCP referral form. Self referral by calling. |
| Canadian Mental Health Association Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program | Individual or Group CBT offered in multiple languages. Participants receive weekly, one-hour sessions with a Clinician, either virtually or in person. Self-referral or HCP form linked |
| Chinese Family Services of Ontario | Chinese language services. Offers free individual, family, marital counselling. Need to contact directly: 1-866-979-8298 or 416-979-8299 |
| Black Mental Health Canada | Provides culturally safe, accessible and affordable. Mental Health Care to the diverse Black communities in Canada. Need to contact practitioner directly |
| Naseeha Muslim Helpline | Naseeha is a Muslim mental health 24/7 helpline and web-based therapy that provide culturally competent and spiritually appropriate counseling to diverse populations. Need to call or book online appointment directly |
| Hope for Wellness | Indigenous helpline. Experienced and culturally competent counsellors are reachable by telephone and online ‘chat’ 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Need to contact directly: 1-855-242-3310 |
| Newcomers Health and Well-Being Program | Provides mental health and primary care services to newcomers 12 years of age or older in York Region and South Simcoe who have physical and mental health concerns. Referrals can be made by the individual or a professional/agency that works with newcomers |
| Rose of Sharon | Our counselling team provides trauma-informed, one-on-one and group supportive counselling to prenatal and parenting individuals aged 14-29 years. Counselling support is client-centered and may include goal setting, problem solving, healthy relationships, emotional and practical supports, CAS advocacy, assistance completing applications, information and referrals. Counsellors can provide referrals to services that assist with the following concerns: mental health, housing, employment education, legal, finances (such as Ontario Works and LEAP), childcare fee subsidy, community programs for children and/or caregivers |
Step 7 - Specialized Services
| Canadian Mental Health Association: Case Management Program- Streamlined Access | Work collaboratively with a case manager to develop a support plan that will identify areas of strength and determine areas of need. Those experiencing serious mental illness to achieve greater independence and improved quality of life. Uses a 6-month service delivery model. Referral through Streamlined Access. Self-referral form or call directly |
| Trauma Therapy Program Women's College Hospital | Specialized programming related to mental health at times of the reproductive life cycle (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause) and the impacts of early childhood trauma. In-person and virtual services. Referral by responsible physician. Internal referrals from WCH programs only |
| Southlake Hospital - Mental Health Services | The Mental Health Program at Southlake provides a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults. Program is made up from an experienced team of healthcare professionals consisting of: nurses, psychiatrists, social workers, psychologists, child and youth counselors, recreational and occupational therapists, dietitians, psychometrists, teachers and crisis workers. Assessment worker helps to identify the mental illness and ensures clients get the care they need. Several services listed - need to click specific program for description and referral process (phone# or link to referral form) |
| Mackenzie Health | Mackenzie Health offers many outpatient programs and services for adults and families experiencing mental health challenges, as well as an adult inpatient mental health unit |
| OakValley Health (Markham/Stouffville) | The Adult Outpatient Mental Health Program at Oak Valley Health’s Markham Stouffville Hospital provides a number of services that include both individual and group therapy. Clients must reside in the Eastern York Region or North Durham catchment area. An initial assessment will be offered by a clinician |
| Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center Women's Mood and Anxiety Clinic: Reproductive Transitions | The Women's Mood and Anxiety Clinic: Reproductive Transitions specializes in mood and anxiety disorders that women can experience across the lifespan — especially during pregnancy, postpartum, perimenopause and post-menopause. Focusing on the assessment and treatment of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Referral form link provided. Must be completed by a physician |
| Women’s Clinic at Ontario Shores for Mental Health Sciences | Specialized care for mental illnesses related to the women's reproductive system. Outpatient treatment for women age 18-65 through the LOVE YOU by Shoppers Drug Mart Women's Clinic. All referrals to Ontario Shores are received by a triage nurse in our Central Intake department. An interprofessional team of intake and specialized clinicians work collaboratively with medical staff to provide prompt feedback on all referrals that include disposition, supported system navigation and recommended next steps. Patients are referred to the most appropriate service based on individual criteria. Each program or service will have its own criteria for referral source and eligibility. In-patient and out-patient referrals - self or HCP |
| University Health Network Mental Health in Medicine Clinic | Interdisciplinary team of psychiatrists, nurse practitioners and social workers that provide up to 6 months of treatment to eligible patients referred to the clinic by a UHN physician or nurse practitioner. Virtual & in-person appointments offered. Treatment options may include: - Psychiatric assessment - Pharmacotherapy - Psychotherapy (individual and group) - System navigation - Connecting to social assistance programs, such as income support, housing and food security - Case management in collaboration with other providers |
| Mt Sinai Perinatal Mental Health Program | The Perinatal Mental Health Program provides assessment and treatment for women who are under the care of a Mount Sinai Hospital medical provider or who have delivered at Sinai within the past 12 months. Our program offers consultation with a perinatal psychiatrist, as well as group therapy options |
| Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH) | A hospital and research centre that provides services for people affected by mental health and addiction issues. CAMH's Mood and Anxiety Ambulatory Services provide outpatient services to clients with mood and anxiety disorders 1-800-463-2338 or 416-535-8501. Physician, nurse practioner or psychiatrist referral is required |
| Catholic Community Services of York Region | Offers counselling options, including immediate assistance, ongoing support or personalized care plans |
| Your Support Services Network Intensive Case Management/Assertive Community Treatment Teams (Streamlined Access) | Streamlined Access - a refferal service connecting eligibile clients 16 years and older to mental health, addicion and dual-diagnosis services in York Region and South Simcoe. Clients can call directly or complete an online application. Access worker will complete an assessment to identify needs. A partnership made up of YSSN, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA)—York and South Simcoe, LOFT Crosslinks Housing and Support Services, Addiction Services for York Region (ASYR) and Southlake Regional Health Centre (SRHC) |
| COSTI Mental Health Clinic | COSTI’s Mental Health Clinic provides a variety of services to those who suffer from severe and/or chronic mental illness. Services include psychiatric assessments and follow-up by an on-site psychiatrist. COSTI Family and Mental Health Services also runs chronic pain management groups; CBT; and short-term psycho-educational groups for women diagnosed with depression. Counselling, therapeutic groups and workshops available. Must call directly for an appointment |
| Canadian Center for Refugee and Immigrant Healthcare (CCRIHC) | Provides trauma-informed counselling in a safe, non-judgmental, and trusting space for vulnerable refugees and displaced migrant populations who have experienced significant losses and traumatic events. Contact main line or send email |
| Women's College Hospital -Reproductive Life Stages Program | The Reproductive Life Stages program in the Department of Psychiatry provides assessment and short-term treatment for individuals experiencing new or recurrent mental health problems during the reproductive life stages (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, postpartum and the menopausal transition). As of July 30, 2024, offering appointments for most referred patients within 4 – 12 weeks of the referral being received. Can be expedited depending on intake assessment |
| Women's College Hospital - Mental Health Programs | Team of administrative professionals, nurses, social service workers, social workers, therapists and psychiatrists provide high-quality services to children, adolescents and adults in-person and virtually. Focus on the impact of sex and gender on mental health issues. Also have specialized programming related to mental health at times of the reproductive life cycle (menstruation, pregnancy, menopause) and the impacts of early childhood trauma. The General Psychiatry Program accepts internal referrals from WCH programs only, with the exception of the Day Treatment Program. Due to high volumes, Addiction Psychiatry is currently only accepting referrals from the Mental Health Program at Women’s College Hospital |
| Connex Ontario | ConnexOntario provides service information for people experiencing problems with gambling, drugs, alcohol, or mental health. Helpful, supportive system navigation specialists answer all calls, emails or web chat requests 24/7. Referral service is free and confidential |
| Trans Lifeline | Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support phone service run by trans people for trans and questioning peers. Call for someone trans to talk to, even if the person is not in a crisis or if they are not sure they are trans |
| Addiction Services of York Region | Supports change in the lives of individuals, their families and communities related to substance use and gambling. acyr.ca links to Addiction Services Central Ontario website. Or call 1-800-263-2288 ext. 322 or 905-841-7007 |
Red Pathway
Urgent: Positive response to EPDS question 10 / intent, thoughts, or plan for harm to self/other, psychosis or mania
Regardless of score, undertake or arrange immediate assessment of suicide risk.
IF RISK IS PRESENT
- Follow agency protocol/policy regarding suicidal ideation
- Initiate crisis or emergency services, as required
- 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline
- Call 911
- Call 1-855-310-COPE (2673)
- For people who are experiencing a mental health crisis, and their family or friends, we offer a Community Crisis Response Service. Call, text or chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-310-COPE (2673). Crisis workers will provide an immediate response in a variety of critical situations (e.g., depression, loneliness, anxiety or fear, thoughts of suicide, hopelessness, etc.).
- Create a Safety Plan
Related Supports and Resources for Red Pathway
Step 8 - Acute Care Crisis Services
| 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline Talk Suicide Canada | Call or text 988 Suicide Crisis Helpline. A safe space to talk, 24 hours a day, every day of the year |
| 911 | Call or text 911 for an emergency that requires immediate assistance from police, fire or paramedics |
| 211 Central | Search for community and government services in the GTA by topic area. Need to click on specific resource for referral, eligibility, etc. |
| 310 COPE Your Support Services Network Crisis Response Service | For people who are experiencing a mental health crisis, and their family or friends. Offers the Community Crisis Response Service for persons living in YR, South Simcoe and North York. Call, text or chat 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call or text 1-855-310-COPE (2673). Chat with a crisis worker online via a Live Chat. Crisis workers will provide an immediate response in a variety of critical situations (e.g., depression, loneliness, anxiety or fear, thoughts of suicide, hopelessness, etc.) |
| Kids Help Phone | Speak with a crisis responder: Text CONNECT to 686868. Call 1-800-668-6868 |
| Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention | Provides information about suicide prevention and is not an acute care or crisis service. Links to 988 to find a crisis centre |
| Women’s Support Network of York Region Crisis Line | Provides free, non judgemental, confidential services for anyone who has experienced sexual violence in their lifetime. 24-hour crisis line: 1-800-263-6734 or 905-895-7313. Human trafficking helpline: 905-758-5285 |
| Connex Ontario | Phone or e-chat information and crisis support for mental health and addictions services 24 hours a day. Provides service in over 170 languages. The system navigation and information service can provide information about counselling services and supports in your community; offer support and provide strategies for treatment; and provide basic education about mental health, drug, alcohol, and problem gambling treatment services |
| National Overdose Response Service | 24/7 *365 Virtual overdose prevention safer consumption hotline. Canada wide, supervised support. Call Text or Chat: 1-888-688-6677. Global app: The Brave App (911 call if needed) |
| Transgender Crisis Line | Trans Lifeline’s Hotline is a peer support phone service run by trans people for our trans and questioning peers. Speak to a trans/nonbinary peer operator. Full anonymity and confidentiality. No non-consensual active rescue (no calling 911, emergency services, or law enforcement) |
| Southlake Regional Health Centre - Adult Crisis Program | Program provides 24-hour coverage to the Emergency Department and provides assessment, short-term crisis counseling and referrals to community agencies to clients who are 18 years of age or older. In addition, this service includes assessment and consultation in inpatient units and family physicians. Several services listed - need to click Adult Crisis Program for description and phone# |
| Oak Valley Mental Health Inpatient Crisis Services | Adult Inpatient Services are offered to patients 18 years old and older who require admission to hospital due to a mental health crisis |
| Mackenzie Heath Inpatient Unit for Adults | Mackenzie Health's Mental Health Inpatient Unit at Cortellucci Vaughan Hospital features 32 inpatient beds, all in private rooms, with eight specialized psychiatric intensive care unit beds to care for adults aged 18 and older who are dealing with an acute mental illness requiring treatment and stabilization |
| York Region Children’s Aid Society | Each person has a responsibility to report concerns about the safety and well-being of a child. A trained advice and assessment worker will listen to concerns and provide advice. Available by phone 24 hours a day, seven days a week to the community. |
| Addiction Services Central Ontario | Links someone who is experiencing a mental health or addictions related crisis to York Region, North York and South Simcoe Community Crisis response services available around the clock |
| Assaulted Women's Helpline | Provides crisis counselling, safety planning, emotional support, information, and referrals 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year on our telephone and TTY crisis line. Free, confidential, and anonymous support is available in 200+ languages |
| Multilingual Distress Lines | We offer help in multiple languages. Our trained volunteers are happy to assist individuals in the areas of emotional distress, relationship issues, and life changes. We strive to create a welcoming environment for people of all backgrounds, cultures, and languages |
Shelters
| Empowerment Through Achievement (ETA) Vaughan Women’s Shelter 24-hour crisis line: 1-877-382-1888 | Provides emergency shelter, counselling and support to help women and children escaping abusive situations |
| Sandgate Women’s Shelter 24-hour hotline: 1-800-661-8294 | Supports and services for women and their children who have experienced violence |
| Yellow Brick House 24-hour crisis line: 1-800-263-3247 | Provides emergency shelter and outreach services for women and their children leaving abusive relationships |
| Blue Door/BlueDoor Mosaic Interfaith Out of the Cold (by Blue Door). Porter Place/Leeder Place/Kevin's Place | Our emergency housing programs provide support for men, male youth, and families experiencing food, housing, and healthcare insecurities. At Blue Door’s emergency housing programs, we are still battling challenges from the COVID-19 pandemic and continue to work closely with Public Health, to ensure a safe environment for everyone accessing the programs |
| Inn from the Cold | The shelter is open to homeless men and women over the age of 16 who have need of shelter all year round |
| 360 Kids - Connections and Emergency Housing | Connections is the first emergency housing facility in the southern part of York Region for homeless youth. The facility offers 14 single-occupancy rooms, 7 days a week and provides basic needs (food, bedding, hygiene supplies, etc.) wraparound services; and assistance finding appropriate, affordable, and stable housing |
| Belinda’s Place | Belinda's Place, supported by The Salvation Army, provides basic needs, temporary housing, client focused wraparound supports and follow up services to assist women who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness. They help women find housing, keep their housing and successfully reintegrate into the community |
| Sutton Youth Shelter | Emergency shelter for homeless youth between the ages of 16 and 26. In addition to basic needs, counselling and life skills are provided. The Centre also provides transitional housing for youth for up to 1 year |
| Drop-In’s: | |
| Krasman Centre | Richmond Hill and Newmarket (Inn from the Cold) Drop-by programs. Visitors can access: - Peer support, system navigation, warm transfers, resources and referrals - Peer Support-based activities - Harm reduction resources and supplies - Wellness items (limited quantities available) - Personal care facilities and supplies - Light refreshments Please contact location directly |
York Region Public Health does not recommend one service over another. If you or someone you know needs support, the agencies listed within this pathway may be of help. This tool does not replace individualized assessment, and clinical judgment is required to ensure safe, effective, equitable and inclusive treatment of your client. Health care professionals can refer to the Provincial Council for Maternal and Child Health’s recommended approach for the identification, assessment and monitoring of mental health issues for pregnant and postpartum people in Ontario
If you know of a resource or service that could be added to this Pathway or if you have any questions please contact us by email: @email
