CARES is an eight-week group counselling program designed to target the social, emotional, and psychological challenges that can arise among caregivers of children with complex needs. We help caregivers care for themselves because the more they show up for themselves, the more they can show their loved ones the way.
Caregivers will work on different coping strategies to manage day-to-day stress, practice taking a more self-compassionate perspective towards their challenges, and learn tips for problem-solving and assertive communication.
CARES has been honoured with the College of Family Physicians of Canada™ (CFPC) and the Canadian Psychiatric Association (CPA) Collaborative Mental Health Care Award for its excellence in enhancing mental health outcomes through collaborative healthcare efforts.
Operating across Ontario with partners like SAAAC Autism Centre and Autism Ontario, CARES serves over 200 families annually, offers multilingual access, and has made notable research contributions, including a publication in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, demonstrating its significant impact on community mental health.
This program is proudly supported by the Ministry of Children, Community, and Social Services. Thanks to this funding, we are able to provide more caregivers with access to essential mental health supports.
