The Child and Adolescent Mental Health at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre is an 8 bed unit designed to meet the needs of youth with severe mental health issues who require hospitalization. The focus of care is Patient and Family Centred Care and youth and their families are at the heart of everything we do. The unit offers an assessment, stabilization and brief treatment. The Unit provides a safe and therapeutic environment for medically stable youth. Inpatient services are delivered by a multidiscipline team which includes physicians, psychology, social work, nurses and child and youth workers.

TBRHSC is also a partner of the Superior Model, which promotes and supports the positive behaviour, well-being and mental health of all children and youth in our communities, in order to maximize their full potential, success and achievement.

The Child and Adolescent Unit provides two types of admissions; crisis admissions and elective assessment admissions. Crisis admissions are typically 3 - 5 days in length. The goal is to provide a safe place while problems are identified and solutions are explored. Elective assessment admissions are referred by physicians or community agencies, there is a longer length of stay and a more comprehensive assessment is completed.

Youth meet with members of the treatment team and participate in a school program, individual and group work. Youth are encouraged to develop a new way of thinking, and coping with problems. Education is provided to youth and families about mental illness and any medication that may be recommended. All Youth complete a safety plan which is shared with parents. Referrals are made to community service providers for more support following discharge from the hospital.

Visiting Hours: Parents and other family members are encouraged to call before visiting. Friends and young siblings are asked to visit off the Unit.

For additional information, please contact:

Angela Hill MSW
Coordinator - Child and Adolescent Mental Health Unit
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
980 Oliver Road
Thunder Bay, Ontario
P7B 6V4
Phone: 684-6525
Email: hillan@tbh.net