Mental Health Nursing

Intensive Mental Health

The Community Mental Health Nursing program provides psychiatric/mental health nursing services. The focus of this service is on reduced hospitalization and increased community case management activities for people and their families who are experiencing a severe and persistent mental illness and who may have addictions or problematic substance use issues.

Services provided include consultations with family physicians and psychiatrists, assessments, development of individual treatment plans in cooperation with the person served, monitoring of medications, education and support for individuals, families and groups.

This service was developed in 1995 and has been provided by Salt Spring Island Community Services since its inception. It was created as a response to reducing hospitalization of people who could be in the community if they had support.

Service Delivery Philosphy and Principles:

1. The climate of service delivery will be caring, respectful, safe and open.

2. People will be treated with dignity and respect.

3. Services will be provided in a discreet and confidential manner.

4. Effective service includes empowerment, advocacy, and information.

5. Service will be person-centered. This includes individualized and flexible service, with involvement from the person served in setting the direction of service.

6. Service will be responsive and timely.

Location

Services are provided from the main SSICS building at 268 Fulford-Ganges Road.

The building is wheelchair accessible and has private counselling offices and group/family meeting rooms. Support services for persons served are also provided at Lady Minto Hospital.

Access to Service

Service can be accessed via self-referral, family physician, psychiatrist, hospital referral, RCMP, community referral or inter-agency referral.

The Salt Spring Island Community Services phone is (250) 537-9971.

Hours

Tuesday and Wednesday, 9am – 4pm

For further information, please read the Service Description