GPS

The goal of the Guiding Partnerships and Solutions (GPS) – Integrated Mental Health Treatment Program is to strengthen the ability of children and youth with mental health needs to function more effectively in their homes or foster homes, schools and communities.

The client group includes, but is not exclusive to, families who may have a child or youth who is at risk of an out-of-home placement. The service is intensive, an average of four service hours per week with the child/youth and/or parents/caregivers.

Quick Facts

  • Parents/caregivers parents of children and youth aged 4-18 years  who are at risk of out-of-home placement.
  • Runs out of the Upper Paradise site, but service is delivered in the families’ homes.
  • Referrals through Access & System Navigation (ASN) is required.

About the Program

The program staff will work with parents/caregivers and their children or youth aged 4-18 to further develop and build on their skills and strengths as individuals to increase the family and child/youth’s functioning.  We approach treatment through an evidence-based treatment lens which includes individual therapy for the child/youth, parent/caregiver-child therapy, skill building approach and teaching models. The program encourages parents/caregivers and children/youth to use their strengths to address their needs. This will be accomplished through a process involving community collateral services (if any are involved), informal support and family members. Our clinical belief is that all family members can contribute to increased success for the child/youth and family. The program often/typically uses family meetings as a forum to address the goals identified by the family, as well as individual meetings and community-based meetings as necessary.  

Our belief is that all family members can contribute to increased success for the child or youth and their family. The program typically uses family meetings in the home as a forum to address the goals identified by the family, as well as individual meetings and community-based meetings as necessary.

In-Home and Individualized

Generally, the service is offered in the family’s home and at the child/youth’s school. It employs flexible hours to meet with the child/youth and their family, and any other community resources involved with the family. This service is individualized and responsive to the family’s changing needs throughout the treatment process.

Referrals

Referrals to the GPS Program may be made by clicking on Access & Service Navigation (ASN) or calling ASN at (905) 389-1361.

ASN is the single point of access for children and youth mental health services in the Hamilton area starting January 1, 2024.

Program Location

  • Upper Paradise Site
  • 526 Upper Paradise
    Hamilton, ON, L9C 5E3
  • 905-389-1361