The Mental Health Team works as part of the Niagara North Family Health Team to offer support and guidance to our patients and sees patients in groups or in individual counselling sessions. Together, they will assist in developing a plan of care that will lead to a better understanding and effective change.
Twenty percent of Canadians will have a mental health issue at some point in their lives. Mental health problems affect relationships, work, and quality of life. Common reasons to see a mental health professional include:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Stress management
- Alcohol and drug problems
- Grief
- Psychiatric/Mental Health issues
Our Mental Health Team consists of social workers, a psychotherapist and two psychiatrists.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
Village Medical Centre
James McQueen – Social Worker
Kelly Ryan – Social Worker
Sonia Simmons – Social Worker
Dr. Ken Santher – Adult and Pediatric Psychiatrist
St. Catharines
Lake-Carlton site
Meredith Durksen – R. Psychotherapist (Qualifying)
Kristyn Nourse – Social Worker
Amanda Oosterveer – Psychotherapist
Shelley Wilson – Social Worker
Dr. Mohammed Warsi – Psychiatrist
How Can You Access the Services of our Mental Health Team?
Patients can obtain a referral from their family physician at any time in order to see our Mental Health Team.
St. Catharines
For more information on our St. Catharines Mental Health Team, call Kely at 905.988.9617 x226.
Niagara-on-the-Lake
For more information on our NOTL Mental Health Team, call 289.272.0180.
If this is a Mental Health Crisis…
In case of Mental Health Crisis, you can contact the following numbers in the Niagara Area:
For 16 years and older:
Coast Niagara – Crisis Outreach and Support Team – 1-866-550-5205 ext. 1
For 18 years and under :
Pathstones Mental Health – 1-800-263-4944
In the event of imminent risk, please call 911