The Child & Adolescent Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic serves as an outpatient service at Humber, providing a lifeline to children, youth and their families who are in urgent need of care during a critical stage of their development.

In an era where mental health challenges among youth are reaching critical levels, Humber River Health’s Child & Adolescent Mental Health Urgent Care Clinic (CAUCC) acts as a resource for those in our local population who are suffering.

The CAUCC serves as an outpatient service at Humber, providing a lifeline to children, youth and their families who are in urgent need of care during a critical stage of their development. Young patients who arrive to the Jack & Pat Kay Emergency Psychiatric Unit in Humber’s Apotex Emergency Department are assessed and referred to the CAUCC should they require tailored outpatient care.

As the demand for mental health services continue to surge, the CAUCC, now in its fifth year, stands as a testament to the power of community support in addressing this pressing issue. Dr. Jacqueline Holiff, a Psychiatrist who has been part of Humber’s CAUCC since its inception, has seen first-hand the stark picture of the current mental health landscape for youth within our community.

“The system around us is drowning as we continue managing the mental health repercussions of the pandemic,” says Dr. Holiff. “Our Clinic is helping to fill a gap that has always been present in the community, and despite huge system issues, we are helping to improve lives.”

Despite these challenges, the CAUCC remains steadfast in its commitment to providing timely and comprehensive care to those in need.

“Most mental health concerns begin during adolescence. That’s why being able to help these families at this age is life-changing,” says Dr. Steven Selchen, Chief of Psychiatry at Humber River Health.

With the limited availability of primary care in our community and the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are seeking help from the CAUCC:

• 800+ Visits to the Child & Adolescent Urgent Care Clinic: Reflecting a substantial increase from previous years, this statistic underscores the pressing need for accessible mental health support in the community.
• Served 174 Individual Patients: Behind each number lies a unique story highlighting the CAUCC’s impact on the lives of children, youth, and their families.
• Over 160 Referrals to the CAUCC: Collaboration lies at the heart of the success of the CAUCC, with referrals pouring in from various sources, both internal and external.

*Data from April 1, 2022-March 31, 2023

Dr. Steven Selchen, Chief of Psychiatry at Humber River Health, emphasizes the importance of a team-based approach in addressing the complex needs of young patients.

“I’ve witnessed first-hand how well the CAUCC team works together to provide care for our young patients,” says Dr. Selchen. “Most mental health concerns begin during adolescence. That’s why being able to help these families at this age is life-changing.”

Looking ahead, the CAUCC remains committed to its mission of providing accessible and compassionate care to those in urgent need within our catchment and beyond.

Support the CAUCC

Through donor support, the CAUCC stands ready to meet the challenges of the future, ensuring that no child or adolescent is left behind in their journey towards mental wellness. Unfortunately, OHIP doesn’t allow for the team-based care that makes this work possible – which is why ongoing support is instrumental in sustaining our efforts. For more information on how to donate, please contact Judene Stewart at justewart@hrh.ca.