ACCESS Open Minds Edmonton
The ACCESS Open Minds network is a pan-Canadian initiative to show how youth mental health services can be transformed, improving access to appropriate mental health & addiction services for youth aged 11-25 years. It is a joint venture of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Graham Boeckh Foundation. Each partner is contributing $12.5 million over the five year life of the project.
The initiative leverages the existing strengths of communities and systems, and is structured to be adaptable to the diverse geographic, cultural, and socio-demographic contexts in which Canadian youth live, as well as the diversity of Canadian youth and their presentation of mental health needs.
The Edmonton site clinic is located in the Bill Rees YMCA, which was chosen for its accessibility, relation to high youth traffic, and welcoming environment. Youth can also access the program through youth hubs at other locations, including iHuman, the Armoury (YESS), and Centre High. Additionally, as the program aims to be as flexible as possible, ACCESS OM clinicians can meet youth at any location of their choosing.
ACCESS OM clinicians serve as a health bridge, connecting institutions where youth initially present their need for care, service providers, and other actors. ACCESS clinicians will provide ongoing support and guidance from start to finish, ensuring follow-through on the road to appropriate care. At all times, the youth is the ultimate judge of whether their needs are being met and the services provided are appropriate.