Family Outreach and Response (FOR) Program
Having a strong support system is integral to recovery for individuals experiencing a mental health issue. However, for family and friends to best support those they love, they must also take care of themselves.
The Family Outreach and Response (FOR) Program at CMHA Toronto provides support to family and friends who have a loved one experiencing a mental health issue. We recognize “family” as any person who plays a significant role in an individual’s life. FOR offers education and practical skills to help you gain confidence in your ability to support your loved one, yourself and strengthen your relationship.
We believe that the wisdom shared by individuals with lived experience helps build trusting connections, leading to healing and growth. This is why, in addition to being mental health professionals, FOR staff also have personal or family (or both) lived experience with mental health issues.
At FOR, we recognize:
- The relationship between trauma and mental health issues
- Barriers to accessing mental health services due to discrimination and marginalization
At FOR, we value:
- Accessible and equitable service
- Family empowerment
- Hope for change and growth
- A trauma-informed approach to mental health care
Who are FOR services for?
FOR services are offered to families and friends who:
- live in the city of Toronto, and
- have a loved one that is 16-65 experiencing a mental health issue.
What services does the program provide?
FOR offers the following services:
- One-on-one support with a family worker
- A Variety of groups and workshops
- Specialized supports, including:
1. Early Intervention Family Support
Support for family and friends of young adults experiencing early signs of psychosis.
2. Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT-Informed) Family Support
Support for family and friends of a loved one with a label of borderline personality disorder or other emotion dysregulation issues.
3. Family Navigation Program
In partnership with St. Joseph’s Health Centre, our family navigators provide support and education to families of individuals who encounter mental health services at the hospital.
Where are FOR services offered?
FOR services are offered at the two following locations:
- Toronto Site: 2333 Dundas St. W., Suite 501, Toronto, ON M6R 3A6
- Scarborough Site: 1200 Markham Rd., Suite 500, Scarborough, ON M1H 3C3
How do you apply to the FOR Program?
To access our services, please fill out the FOR Intake Form and fax or e-mail the referral to CMHA Toronto’s Intake Coordinator (contact information listed on the form).
To learn more about the program and the groups and workshops offered, please contact CMHA Toronto’s Information and Decision Support: 416-789-7957 x 3631 or mkalogridis@cmhato.org.