By Rosalind Russell – The Counseling Service of East Algoma will be transferring crisis services to the Emergency Department at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Elliot Lake.
According to the board it’s effective December 2.
The board states the decision comes after careful consideration of the evolving needs of the community and to ensure individuals experiencing mental health or behavioral health crises have access to immediate, comprehensive care when they need it most.
The board says the Emergency Department is equipped to provide 24/7 care and support; it will centralize crisis services in the department and provide better coordinate care especially for individuals in crisis who also have complex medical needs.
If anyone is experiencing a mental health crisis, they can now go directly to the Emergency Department for immediate assistance.
Officials say access to a crisis worker at the CCEA office will be by appointment only.
Individuals will receive a full evaluation from a dedicated team at the hospital beginning with the Triage Nurse and then CCEA Crisis worker, who will work with them to determine the best course of action, whether that’s immediate intervention, outpatient services, or referrals to ongoing care.
If someone is experiencing a mental health crisis and is unsure where to go, call ConnexOntario available 24/7 at 1-866-531-2600 or www.connexontario.ca, to speak with a trained professional who can assist with next steps.
For ongoing support and community mental health services, call the CCEA office at 705-848-2585 or visit our website at www.counsellingcentre.org
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