Community Mental Health and Addictions

Organizations are asked to meet a common set of Organizational Standards, as well as standards specific to their mental health and addictions programs and services.

The Organizational Standards look at the whole organization, and cover things like governance, management, planning and evaluation, quality improvement, and important risk management functions. The standards also look for person-centred services, a strength-based approach, accessibility of services, and engagement and responsiveness to the communities served.

A module of program and service standards applies to the organization’s community mental health and addiction services. The standards address mental health promotion in the broader context of the social determinants of health, the organization’s approach to service, including how persons served are engaged and services are person-directed, and many aspects of the service process, including how continuity and coordination of services are assured and personnel including peer counsellors are supported. They look for a proactive approach to client safety and management of service-related risk.

There are also standards where particular services are offered, including residential treatment programs and supportive housing programs.

CCA’s standards for community mental health and addiction services were developed with the support of Addictions and Mental Health Ontario and CMHA Ontario, and with the input of leaders in the sector.

Contact CCA for more information.