Get Help

Many people live with mental health and addiction issues and never seek help – we are pleased you found us!

AVH Mental Health & Addiction Services offers a range of tools and programs to support you and the people you care about.

Our programs are covered by MSI.* You don't need a doctor to make a referral – you can refer yourself. We also take referrals from schools, physicians and other service providers.

Here are some frequently asked questions about making referrals to Mental Health and Addiction Services.

How do I make a referral to Mental Health and Addiction Services (MH/AS)?
You can call us or you can fill out our referral form. <coming soon>

When should I make a referral to MH/AS?
When mental health concerns and/or your drinking, gambling, smoking or drug use are interfering with your daily activities – school, work, friendships etc.

Who do Mental Health and Addiction Services treat and support?
Children, youth, adults, older adults and their parents/caregivers, friends and family. We also work with local community groups, schools and other partners to improve the overall health of the community.

What conditions does MH/AS treat?
We focus on the areas of mood, anxiety, behavior, ADHD, autism, gambling, alcohol, tobacco, other drugs and other problems that are causing significant impairment in daily functioning.

What can I expect when I call for an appointment?
Mental Health and Addiction Services work differently, but the first stop for both is to call and speak to a secretary who will then take you through the process to arrange for an appointment as quickly as possible.

How long will I have to wait to be seen?
Mental Health and Addiction Services follow standards set out by the province of Nova Scotia. Wait time is determined by level of urgency. We make every attempt to follow these standards, the regular appointment wait time can change depending on the number of referrals received. The standard is set at 3 months for Mental Health and 2-3 weeks for Addictions. Addiction Services also offers group services that have no wait times.

What if I have to cancel my appointment?
It is really important to call if you need to cancel your appointment. There are many people waiting to get in and if you don’t call, the time is left unused. Your appointment can be easily rescheduled if you call.

What if I am bringing young children with me?
It is a good idea to bring a sitter to the waiting room to keep an eye on your child/children. Unfortunately we are not able to provide child care and the clinician may wish to speak with you alone. Older children are welcome to play with the toys, watch the tv/movies.

What if I cannot come to an appointment between 8:30-4:30pm?
Appointments after regular business hours are possible. Please let the secretary or clinician know

What if I don’t have transport?
The MH/AS attempts to make it as easy as possible for people to attend appointments at the clinics. If you have a transportation barrier, please let the secretary or your clinician know so we can assist you with this.

What can I expect from my appointment?
You will meet with a clinician who will ask you lots of questions about the difficulties you are having.  The first appointment is a lot of information gathering so that the clinician can fully understand your challenges. This first appointment will be longer than the follow up appointments.

What are the limits of confidentiality?
All appointments are held in confidence between you and your therapist unless disclosure is required to prevent clear and immediate danger to yourself or others; when legal requirements demand that confidential material be revealed (as in a court case); and/or when a child is in need of protection.

Where is MH/AS located?
Mental Health and Addictions Services are located throughout the district. If you are looking for a specific location, view our locations page to find directions.

Where else can I get help or treatment?
You can also get help through your Employee Assistance Plan, private insurance plan, school guidance counselor, youth health centre, church ministers, internet and online resources. Check out some of these links.

*Our DWI program is fee-based and is not covered by MSI.