Nurturing Mental Health Across Grey and Bruce Communities

Ribbon cutting ceremony for the Crisis Support Program Expansion at Brightshores - Owen Sound


By: Naomi Vodden, Director of Mental Health and Addictions, Brightshores Health System

In today's fast-paced world, the importance of mental health cannot be overstated. Brightshores Health System understands the significance of mental well-being and is committed to providing comprehensive support and services to members of its communities. Through dedicated programs and services, Brightshores strives to break down barriers, raise awareness, and foster resilience among individuals facing mental health challenges.

Central to our mission is the recognition that mental health is just as vital as physical health. That's why we've established a range of specialized programs and services aimed at addressing the diverse needs of our community members. From counseling and therapy to addiction recovery support, our offerings are designed to provide holistic care and support throughout every stage of the recovery journey.

We are pleased to be wrapping up construction and will soon open a new Mental Health Wellness and Recovery Centre in Owen Sound, Ontario. This facility is set to become the cornerstone of our mental health services. It is a place where we can offer comprehensive care through evidence-based programs and treatments to individuals struggling with mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. Whether it's counseling, group therapy, or medication management, our expert team is dedicated to providing compassionate, personalized care to every individual who seeks our help.

Mental health is interconnected with other aspects of well-being, such as physical health and social support. That's why our program meets people where they are at addressing not only the symptoms of mental illness but also the underlying factors that contribute to distress and dysfunction. Brightshores is most fortunate to have strong partnerships with other organizations in our region, such as Keystone Child, Youth & Family Services and the Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Grey Bruce. We work together to address gaps in the care journey and to offer support at various stages of life.

Robyn Nocilla, a Primary Care Nurse Practitioner at Brightshores​, states that “50 % of people with a substance use disorder will have a co-occurring mental health disorder. Recovery is seeing the person as a whole and understanding that the person's illness may overlap, disguise, or exacerbate the substance use disorder. The wellness center will allow providers in the addiction and mental health system to coordinate and collaborate on client-focused care that is centered on recovery."

At the heart of our approach with all clients, is a commitment to destigmatizing mental illness and promoting mental wellness. Through community outreach programs, educational seminars, and awareness campaigns, we aim to spark conversations that will empower individuals to seek the support they need. Our goal is to equip individuals with the tools and resources they need to maintain good mental health and resilience in the face of life's challenges.

Brightshores is dedicated to nurturing mental health across our communities through comprehensive programs and services. We are proud that we can offer a wide range of evidence-based treatments and support options to individuals struggling with mental illness and addiction.

View​ more information about our Wellness and Recovery centre. And, for more on the specific mental health and addiction services offered, please visit Brightshores Mental Health & Addiction Services.