Who can I talk to at school regarding my child’s mental health concerns?

  • You may find it helpful to speak to your child’s teacher.
  • Your student’s vice-principal and/or guidance counsellor are good places to go for help too. They can connect you with other resources you may need, including both in-school and community supports.
  • Each school has access to a designated school social worker who can work directly with students through a referral process that happens at the school.
  • We have 2 full time child youth workers on staff who can provide check-ins and support for students.
  • If you are worried about your child’s mental health or safety, or that of someone else, be sure to ask for help from a health care professional.

Where can I go in my community for help if I am concerned about my child’s mental health?

  • Crisis Services of Waterloo Region (available 24 hours a day/7 days a week) – 519-744-1813 or 1-844-437-3247
  • Front Door – Access for Children and Youth Mental Health Services in Waterloo Region – 519-749-2932
  • Ray of Hope – Youth Addictions – 519-743-2311 · 1081 King St E Kitchener

Additional Mental Health/Well-Being Resources

Sexual Health Nurse

  • Kristy Wright (RN, BScN) – visits SJAM once a week (appointment slips available in guidance office)
  • Due to Public Health’s current COVID pandemic response, we are not currently able to deploy Public Health Sexual Health Nurses to schools for the foreseeable future.
  • Alternative Service provisions are being planned and details will be shared as soon as possible.
  • Should you wish to connect with a sexual health nurse, please call 519-883-2314.

Walk-In Counselling Service

A Walk-in counselling session does not require an appointment and you can receive immediate assistance on the spot. Content discussed in walk-in sessions is held in strict confidence as with any other counselling relationship. Through a single family counselling session, experienced counsellors help identify issues and equip families with tools and strategies to address their concerns. They can also help determine the next steps for service. The focus of the session is determined by each family’s unique needs. A Walk-in counselling session does not require an appointment and is free of charge. The last appointment is one hour before closing. Please check the organization’s website for up to date information on walk-in dates and times.

Front Door: Access to Child and Youth Mental Health Services

  • Tuesday: 12pm – 6:30pm at Lutherwood, 35 Dickson St, Cambridge
  • Wednesday: 12pm – 6:30pm at Front Door, 1770 King Street E., Kitchener
  • Thursday: 9am – 3:30pm at Langs, 1145 Concession Rd., Cambridge
  • Saturday: 9am – 3:30pm at Front Door, 1770 King Street E., Kitchener

KW Counselling

  • Thursdays from 12 pm – 6 pm at 480 Charles Street, E., Kitchener

Suicide Prevention

  • Tell someone if you have concerns or thoughts about suicide.
  • Call the crisis line (1-844-437-3247)
  • Call 911 if it is an emergency
  • Check out online resources at: www.wrspc.ca