Many Canadians face barriers in accessing mental health support, such as long wait times, high costs, or not knowing where to turn. To address this, WELL Health has launched WELL Mental Health & Wellness, integrating mental health services across all WELL clinics, including the launch of in-person therapy at select WELL Clinic locations across Canada.
We spoke with Marion Adams, CEO of WELL Mental Health & Wellness, about how this initiative will reshape mental health care in Canada.
What is WELL Health’s New Mental Health Initiative?
WELL’s new initiative to integrate mental health services into WELL clinics across Canada will enhance access to care. By leveraging WELL’s extensive clinic network, this initiative helps address the growing need for quicker support, especially as mental health concerns often arise during primary care visits.
This approach allows GPs to refer patients to WELL Health & Mental Wellness for resources and support, benefits navigation, and therapy sessions virtually or in person. This streamlined approach supports GPs in managing mental health concerns while ensuring timely intervention and reduced wait times for the patient.
What are the key goals of this new initiative?
Our goal is to improve collaboration between primary care physicians and mental health professionals by streamlining connecting patients with appropriate therapists, leading to better patient outcomes and a more efficient, integrated care system.
By integrating mental health services into settings like clinics, we aim to normalize seeking mental health support just as one would for physical health care. This visibility helps people see that therapy is a common part of healthcare, reducing stigma and reinforcing community support, reminding individuals that they are not alone in their struggles.
Additionally, we seek to empower clinic staff by simplifying the referral process, reducing the time and resources spent on finding suitable mental health support. This enables providers to concentrate on physical health concerns while qualified professionals manage mental health needs.
How Will This Enhance the Patient Experience?
Integrating mental health services into WELL Health Physical Clinics creates an omni-channel experience, allowing patients to access both physical and mental health care in one location. This holistic approach ensures personalized treatment tailored to individual needs, ultimately enhancing satisfaction.
Patients benefit from flexible options, including in-person therapy and virtual services such as video, phone, and secure messaging. They can also manage and book appointments online, receiving timely reminders to enhance their engagement with mental health support. Additionally, improved care coordination ensures seamless integration of services, addressing all aspects of a patient’s health.
This continuity of care allows patients to transition effortlessly between service types, ensuring that all their health concerns are comprehensively managed.
How Does This Initiative Align with Mental Health Trends?
This initiative aligns with current mental health trends by embracing a hybrid care model that offers both in-person and virtual therapy options, meeting patients where they are. It promotes wellness and prevention, emphasizing the importance of mental health in overall well-being. By fostering community-based care and cultural competence, this initiative increases accessibility and helps to reduce stigma, ensuring that seeking mental health support is normalized and encouraged.
What is your vision for the future of mental health services?
Our mission is to provide accessible, high-quality mental health support to all communities across Canada. In the future, we envision having a dedicated therapist in nearly every WELL clinic in the country.
Furthermore, to accelerate the pursuit of our mission, we are actively welcoming new mental health and wellness clinics into our organization. By partnering with these clinics, we enhance their operational capabilities and support their growth, leveraging our experience and established relationships with WELL primary care clinics. In doing so, we strengthen their service delivery and improve overall efficiency, ultimately increasing access to quality mental health support across Canada.
Take the First Step Towards Better Mental Wellness
Together, let’s build a future where mental health care is seamless, integrated, and within everyone’s reach. Don’t wait—your journey to better mental wellness starts today! Visit wellclinics.ca and filter by mental health services to find a WELL clinic offering therapy services near you!
