In the wake of the pandemic, supporting mental health and addictions care is critical. More than three-quarters (78%) of Canadians say their mental health has been impacted by COVID-19 (Ipsos, 2020). Faced with increased economic hardship, loss, anxiety, and a sense of helplessness, the pandemic is eroding our mental health.

The Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program is just one way Waypoint is helping to meet the mental health care needs of our community. Offered in partnership with community providers, Ontario Structured Psychotherapy is a program funded by the Ontario Government to provide individuals who are experiencing depression and/or anxiety with access to free cognitive behavioural therapy.

Originally initiated as a demonstration project by Waypoint, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health (CAMH), Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences (Ontario Shores) and The Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre (The Royal), the program achieved strong clinical outcomes and was recognized when it was included as part of the province’s Roadmap to Wellness: A Plan to Build Ontario’s Mental Health and Addictions System launched in March 2020. In May 2021, Ontario announced the province-wide expansion of the program. 

"I have never been able to access higher-quality treatment before due to precarious employment circumstances and a lack of insurance. I found this program very helpful because I was able to do deeper work with one therapist the entire time and develop a rapport with them."