Mental Health

Overview

Each year, one in five Canadians will personally experience a mental health problem or illness. Mental illness affects people regardless of their age, culture, education or income levels. So why does society look at people with mental health disorders differently? The answer is stigma. Stigma prevents 40% of people with anxiety or depression from seeking medical help. It can profoundly change how people feel about themselves and make them feel even more isolated and alone. We can take steps to help end the stigma or judgement surrounding mental health issues by educating ourselves, passing on what we have learned to others, being aware of our own attitudes and behaviours, and by making a conscious effort to be understanding and supportive.

As a schedule 1 psychiatric facility, our Mental Health Department  promotes seeking help through a variety of programs and services, free of stigma. We treat our clients with dignity and respect, and ensure we promote an inclusive and open environment.

We have outlined the programs and services we offer below. Should you have any further questions, please contact our department at 519-421-4223.

Inpatient Programs

Inpatient Mental Health: Inpatient Mental Health is a 16-bed program with three Psychiatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) beds.  The inpatient care team provide observation, care and treatment to persons experiencing moderate to severe mental health symptoms. Our team works with patients and their families or caregivers to develop individualized care plans to stabilize symptoms.

Medical Social Work Program: The Medical Social Work Program is designed to support people admitted to an inpatient unit or connected to an ambulatory care service within Woodstock Hospital. Our social workers collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure quality care is provided during the person’s admission, and we help facilitate transitional discharge plans.

Crisis Response

Our crisis team provides three core crisis services:  emergency room crisis response, brief crisis follow-up, and consultation liaison. Crisis response includes a mental health crisis assessment and brief follow-up intervention.  Post crisis follow-up is organized with healthcare professionals and community supports, as needed.  Consultation liaison services are available for patients who are already admitted, and are experiencing psychiatric crises within Woodstock Hospital.

Online Resource: Click here for Reach Out Information. 

Reach Out is a confidential 24/7 information, support and crisis service for people living with mental health or addictions concerns in Elgin, Oxford, Middlesex and London.

Talk-In Counselling

Talk-In Counselling is a drop-in program designed to support residents of Oxford County or patients affiliated with an Oxford County physician, who are experiencing mental health issues or concerns.  A single session therapy approach addresses the immediate problem that is identified by the person seeking support. This program is offered through a collaborative partnership with other community agencies.

The Talk-In Counselling Clinic at Woodstock Hospital is available on Thursdays from noon-7:00 pm (Registration ends at 6:00 pm).

mental health oxford county talk in counselling welcome information FORM

Outpatient Psychiatric Care

Psychiatric care is available to children, youth and adults who may require an assessment for diagnostic and/or treatment recommendations.  All referrals to outpatient psychiatry require a physician’s referral.

Click here to download and print the Mental Health Services – Referral Form

Individual and Group Therapy

Brief Therapy: After attending Talk-In Counselling, brief therapy is available for individuals who require additional support. .  The Brief Therapy Program is an outpatient mental health service designed to further address the person’s presenting issue by offering up to three brief, solution-focused sessions.  Depending on the outcome, referrals to other internal/external supports may be arranged.