November 16, 2022
BONNYVILLE — Alberta Health Services (AHS) has expanded options to access addiction and mental health supports in the community with new weekly walk-in clinics, in addition to existing weekday services available through appointment.
“Improving access to addiction and mental health treatment services is key to a recovery-oriented system of care,” says Health Minister Jason Copping. “Recovery is possible for everyone, and our goal is to also make recovery accessible to everyone.”
“Alberta’s government is building a comprehensive recovery-oriented system of care,” says Nicholas Milliken, Minister of Mental Health and Addiction. “Any Albertan struggling with mental health or addiction challenges will benefit from increased access to services that support their pursuit of recovery.”
“The walk-in clinics are a very valuable service for our community and an extension of the great work our mental health professionals already do in the Bonnyville area,” adds David Hanson, MLA for Bonnyville-Cold Lake-St. Paul.
Individuals can access a mental health services walk-in clinic every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at New Park Place, 5201 44 St. The walk-in clinic is a first point of contact for people seeking support for a variety of mental health concerns. Call 780-826-2404 for more information on the mental health services walk-in clinic.
An addiction walk-in clinic is also open every Tuesday from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the AHS Addictions Services office, 4902 50 Ave. This clinic provides counselling services for individuals with addiction, as well as for family members or friends with a loved one with an addiction. Call 780-826-8054 for more information on the addiction services walk-in clinic.
“These new clinics provide another option to access a mental health therapist or addiction counsellor, particularly for those who may find scheduling appointments challenging,” says Lois Ryan-Ottley, Director for Addiction and Mental Health in AHS North Zone.
As always, there are supports available 24/7 across Alberta through the Addiction Helpline at 1-866-332-2322 and the Mental Health Helpline at 1-877-303-2642. There are also several resources available at www.ahs.ca/helpintoughtimes. Crisis services are available through the local emergency department or by calling 911.
Mental Health and Addiction Recovery is one of Alberta Health Services’ 10 priorities.
Alberta Health Services is the provincial health authority responsible for planning and delivering health supports and services for more than four million adults and children living in Alberta. Its mission is to provide a patient-focused, quality health system that is accessible and sustainable for all Albertans.
