Southwestern Ontario teens and young adults now have access to free, online addiction counseling through a partnership by two local Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) branches.
Crossing Bridges is an online portal for teens and young adults 12 to 24 years old who think they may be experiencing an addiction or behavioral addiction.
The virtual service is being offered by CMHA’s Thames Valley Addiction and Mental Health Services and Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Services branches.
“The approach to counseling at Crossing Bridges is strengths-based, trauma-informed, and person-centred,” regional director Pam Hill said in a statement Wednesday. “It seeks to create a safe space for all youth where they can reflect on and process their thoughts and feelings without judgment.”
The free online program, which was designed with the help of youth advisors, is meant to reduce barriers for young people seeking support and services.
At CrossingBridges.cateens and young adults can connect virtually with an addictions counsellor, get information about substance use and behavioral addictions and find additional addictions services and supports.
The addictions counselors on the platform are registered social workers or social service workers who specialize in youth.
Youth are linked up with a Crossing Bridges counselor based on their needs and counselor availability.
The program is able to support a wide range of addictions, including drug or alcohol use, gambling, gaming, sex, or internet and social media. Counseling is offered in English and French.
“When young people begin to experience problematic substance use or a behavioral addiction, they may not seek help out of fear of judgment,” Catherine Hardman, chief executive of CMHA Huron Perth, said in a statement. “Crossing Bridges was developed to meet young people at their level, on their terms. By providing support in a way that works for them, we hope more youth will be empowered to seek support when they need it.”
Youth self-refer to the virtual counseling supports offered by Crossing Bridges. The program does not provide crisis support. For more information, visit www.crossingbridges.ca.