3 mental health organizations in Waterloo region join forces
CBC
Three counselling services in Waterloo region are now one.
The three former organizations, Carizon Family and Community Services, KW Counselling Services and Monica Place have now merged to become Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health.
CEO Tracy Elop said the new organization wants to "improve community service" and use resources "more effectively and expand programs."
"We are here to provide tools, resources and services that support community members as they work towards their best mental health and wellbeing," says Elop.
"Camino means path, and we are here, walking beside the people we serve at every step of the way along their journey."
People who have been currently using groups and programs and take part in other services will not notice any change.
The demand for mental health services increased during COVID-19. Youth mental health has been identified as a shadow pandemic to COVID-19.
In 2021, the Canadian Mental Health Association Waterloo Wellington reported a 40 per cent increase in youth accessing mental health services.
Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health offers a number of programs for families and individuals, community and youth development and family support.
Camino will operate out of six locations including three in Kitchener, and one each in Baden, Cambridge and Waterloo.