With support from the Provincial Government, residents of all ages in the province can now avail of expanded mental health services offered through the Strongest Families Institute (SFI). This program, currently accessible by registering through Bridge the gapp, will provide readily available coaching sessions with a trained mental health provider for any child, youth or adult in the province experiencing heightened anxiety or stress related to difficult situations such as the pandemic.
This free, bilingual, telephone-based service will allow individuals to choose their preferred delivery method (group-based or one-one coaching) from the comfort of their own homes at a mutually agreed upon day and time, including evening appointments.
SFI is widely recognized for its high-quality, accessible and award-winning programs aimed at improving mental health and well-being of people of all ages through the provision of highly-skilled coaches and innovative technology. It removes barriers to care so that people gain quick access regardless of where they live, when they need it. Since its implementation in Newfoundland and Labrador in 2015, SFI has served thousands of children and families with a 90 per cent success rate.
Whether you are a parent/guardian of a child or youth experiencing anxiety or behavioural concerns, or you are looking for support as an adult, Strongest Families can help.
We know the impact COVID-19 has had on people in our province and are pleased to support expansion of the current Strongest Families Institute programming. It will further help complement other readily-available programs and supports such as Doorways walk-in clinics and the Provincial Warm Line, and provides another valuable tool in the toolbox.
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Health and Community Services
Through this expanded program offering, individuals can access unlimited group-based or one-on-one coaching calls based on their needs, when and where needed. Strongest Families Institute is pleased with the opportunity to further support residents of Newfoundland and Labrador as it has been doing for a number of years with great success.
Dr. Patricia Lingley-Pottie
President and CEO, Strongest Families Institute