Seeking support is the key to supporting your child

Whether you call the coordinated access social worker, or visit our walk-in counseling clinic, we will assess the situation create a tailored treatment plan to your family’s specific needs and circumstances.

When you receive services at our agency, the social worker will get to know you and your child and will work collaboratively to track progress and adjust the plan as necessary.

Coming to the Regional Children’s Centre for the first time can bring up many emotions. One of the best ways to ease your child’s anxiety is to help them understand what to expect beforehand. Here are some helpful tips:

• Talk about the visit ahead of time and answer their questions.
• Involve them and make sure they feel heard.
• Reassure them that this is a safe place where families get support.
• Let them know they’ll talk to a social worker who can help.
• Encourage them to bring something comforting, like a toy or book.
• Remind your child that trying is a possible forward.
• Explain that with time and working together, they will feel better.

Maybe you feel that asking for help means that you are unable to be the parent you need to be for your child. These kinds of worries are common. Talk to you worker about your concerns and what you are looking for as a family – they are there to help you along the way! It is essential that everyone – parents/caregivers, children and our team – actively engage, attend scheduled appointments and the materials provided.

Missing sessions can slow down the progress and the positive changes your family is working towards. So, sign up for appointment reminders to help organize your child’s appointments.

Treatment sessions may feel demanding, and you or your child may be asked to practice things that don't feel natural at first. Work with your worker to create a plan for overcoming any challenges.

It is also important to understand that much of your child’s treatment will occur at home and in the community. If your child comes regularly and you both practice the skills at home, you will see the positive change over time.

Taking care of yourself as a parent or caregiver is crucial when your child is struggling with their mental health. It’s easy to overlook your own well-being, but self-care helps you stay strong and better support your family.

Prioritize eating well, getting rest, talking to others, and doing things you enjoy—even if it is just for a few minutes a day.

Links for Caregiver and Family Peer Support
Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder – Family Peer Support
PCMH – Caregiver Peer Support
Pleo – Family Peer Support

As a parent, you want to do what’s best for your child, but sometimes bringing up kids is a struggle. Parenting and caregiver programs can offer valuable support

• RCC Groups (Link to list on the programs page & prompt parent /caregiver to call 519-257-5437 (KIDS))
• Community Groups (link to Registrations page on programs page)

We recognize that parents and caregivers offer valuable perspectives, shaped by their lived experiences. We are committed to actively listening and learning from clients, family members, and caregivers to improve our services.

Our goal is to make family involvement a key part of everything we do, from the first contact to ongoing support and treatment. This means making sure families are included in decisions every step of the way.

We encourage everyone who is interested to apply.