Mental Health

Mental Health

Many of the youth who access our programs and services, have experienced distressing life events, such as violence, poverty, abuse, and other forms of trauma, all which can negatively impact their mental and physical health, and lead to depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). 

Mental health challenges can be both a cause and a symptom of homelessness. It is close to impossible to improve your mental health when your basic needs are unmet.

We believe that working with youth, to overcome their traumas and treat any disorders, is key to preventing lifelong homelessness, and empowers youth to effectively manage their symptoms, when they become adults.

We offer a wide range of supports designed to address the mental and emotional well-being of youth.

Mental Health Services

One-to-one counselling

  • Registered Clinical Counsellors offer personalized sessions that are tailored to meet each youth’s unique needs.

Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)

  • Looks at the relationship between your thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, to help you view challenging situations more clearly, and respond to them more effectively.

Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)

  • Is based on CBT, but for those who experience emotions very intensely.
  • It helps individuals understand how their thoughts affect their emotions and behaviours.

Physical health

  • CHV offers a fully equipped gym and fitness room, as regular physical activity helps reduce anxiety, improves mood, and builds self-confidence.
  • Staff and volunteers support youth in developing fitness routines tailored to their preferences and goals.
  • We offer recreational outings, like hiking, to foster peer connections.

Music and Art Therapy

  • CHV offers regular art therapy sessions for youth, to explore their emotions and express themselves in a safe environment.
  • The music room is available for all youth, to play instruments, write songs, and build peer connections. 

Spiritual Care Services

  • Provide inclusive support for youth of all faiths and traditions, to give them the option to explore their spiritual, religious, and cultural identities.
  • Connect youth with local, relevant communities.
  • Offer compassionate support during times of grief and loss.

Partnerships for comprehensive care

  • CHV works closely with trusted community partners to provide specialized care.
  • The Foundry, and their team of psychiatrists, work with our Registered Clinical Counsellors, to provide the most effective care possible.
  • Provide referrals to psychiatric care, treatment centres, and other essential services.