Navigating the world of social services is challenging.
Fortunately, the pandemic brought on the expansion of virtual care including the launch of 1door.ca.
“It’s low- to no-barrier access to mental health services and other services in the community,” said Kristi Lalonde, communications officer with the Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, a member organization.
“The idea is it’s one door. It’s one door where a number of organizations are offering their services virtually and for people to be able to book sessions on that one site.
“The benefit is you don’t have to go seeking different websites,” she said.
Since the pandemic, more organizations have signed on as the convenience is a key factor in its success. 1door.ca ties together 10 area organizations for access to services for children, youth, adults, seniors and front-line workers.
“Reaching out can be the hardest and first step, and if they can do that from a place where they are feeling safe, they don’t have to go to an office,” said Lalonde. “It’s a challenging thing to navigate, and when people are feeling unwell, they need it to be as simple as possible.”
Visitors to the website type in their address to see what services are available in their area. Virtual and in-person appointments can be booked. There are many services available including individual counselling, couples’ counselling, peer support and navigation for youth and resources for different age groups.
All of the services are free.
The website was launched and is managed by the Central Ontario Health Team for Specialized Populations, based out of Penetanguishene.
Participating organizations include Catholic Family Services, Front Line Wellness, North Simcoe Youth Wellness Hub, Waypoint Centre for Mental Health Care, Canadian Mental Health Association, Mamaway Wiidokdaadwin, New Path Youth and Family Services, North Simcoe Muskoka Specialized Geriatric Services, the Alzheimer’s Society, and others.
“These organizations are working to streamline access to care,” said Lalonde. “1door.ca is one of the ways they are doing that.”
