FERGUS – Data show that over 30 per cent of clients using the free same-day walk-in services in Mount Forest and Fergus seek support for critical incidents of self-harm and suicidal ideation.
This statistic comes from client assessments reported in the first year of service provision and demonstrates the importance of having accessible mental health services in these communities.
Family Counselling and Support Services for Guelph-Wellington (FCSSGW) received an increase to its base funding from the Waterloo Wellington Local Health Integration Network (WWLHIN) in April 2019 to provide permanent same-day mental health clinics in Mount Forest and Fergus.
The clinics came in response to an ongoing, increased need in Wellington County for quick access walk-in clinics.
The WWLHIN understood the importance of responding to local and rural mental-health needs in Wellington County.
“We have seen mental health struggles impact the rural community especially. Clients ranging from farmers in distress, families coping with youth depression, students with school and social pressures, and more have found hope in an otherwise challenging time,” said executive director Joanne Young Evans.
“Thanks to the WWLHIN funding, combined with partnerships with local family health teams, mental health agencies, and the school boards, FCSSGW is delivering the best services to the residents of Wellington County and in cost-effective way.”
Mental-health issues can escalate quickly and having access to early intervention through same-day services delivered by expert therapists means clients can expect to leave the clinics with an action plan and hope.
“Family Counselling and Support Services for Guelph-Wellington’s Walk-In Clinics support families and individuals in countless ways,” said Wellington-Halton Hills MPP Ted Arnott. “I want to express my thanks for the important work they do, building resilience and well-being in our communities.”
Mount Forest
The Mount Forest clinic runs Mondays from 10:30am to 6pm at the Mount Forest Family Health Team (Claire Stewart Clinic).
Clients can call 519-824-2431, ext. 36 starting at 9am to get a same-day appointment or by emailing intake@familyserviceguelph.on.ca.
Fergus
The Fergus clinic runs Thursdays from 3:30pm to 7pm at the new Skyline Community Hub (the entrance is below the Skyline sign). There is no appointment necessary, and everyone is welcome.
FCSSGW provides a range of individual and group services to children, youth, individuals, couples, families and seniors and is LGBTQ+ friendly with safe, accessible storefront locations in Guelph, Fergus and Mount Forest.
To find out more about the agency’s programs and services, visit the website at www.FamilyServiceGuelph.on.ca.
