Services during the COVID-19 pandemic
Access the following for:
Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program
Adults with depression and anxiety-related conditions can get free cognitive-behavioural therapy and related services through the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program. Services may be self-led or therapist-led, depending on the individual’s needs.
The program is coordinated by 10 networks across the province, who work with different organizations across their regions to offer services.
To learn more about the program, its networks and how to access these services, go to Ontario Structured Psychotherapy Program.
Virtual care
Virtual care is an effective and convenient way to deliver mental health and addictions care. Through 2020, as health care providers have adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic, use of virtual care increased dramatically compared with its previous use across Ontario.
Virtual care can support people through their treatment for a range of mild to moderate mental health and substance use disorders. Through video, secure messaging, and online platforms, people can access care when and where they need it. Providing care virtually can:
- Expand access
- Save travel and clinician time
- Shorten wait times
- Reduce stigma
Health care providers: Interested in adding virtual care options to your practice?
Tools and resources are available through Ontario Health (OTN):
- Clinical guidance to help determine when virtual care is an optimal choice in care delivery.
- Mood and Anxiety Solutions to improve timely access to care and provide patients with support to cope with the symptoms of anxiety and depression, plus the ability to gain control of mental health issues.
- Support for substance use disorder through Breaking Free Online, a free online support tool for Ontarians ages 16+ to reduce or stop the use of over 70 substances such as tobacco, alcohol and drugs, including opioids.
Quality standards
Quality standards outline for clinicians and patients what quality care looks like. Based on the best available evidence, quality standards provide the blueprint to enable the health care system in Ontario to work better, facilitate smooth transitions, and ensure people receive the same high-quality care, regardless of where they live.
Quality standards cover a wide range of topics: