The new Westshore Mental Health and Substance Use Hub is set to open in Colwood, B.C.

The western communities service hub is designed to meet a range of mental-health and addiction needs. It offers immediate access through same-day walk-in or call-in counselling and assessments, care planning, integrated services – five days a week.

The purpose-built site includes meeting space, clinical consult and exam spaces, as well as a dedicated gathering space.

“With the opening of this hub, we’re taking a significant step in addressing the growing need for mental-health and substance use services in our communities,” said Leah Hollins, Island Health board chair. “By providing local, integrated care for a range of needs, we’re creating a more responsive and effective system that can truly support individuals throughout their recovery journey.”

The Hub will serve people with moderate to less severe conditions, including depression, anxiety and other mental health conditions as well as addictions. The Hub team includes professionals from various fields such as psychiatry, addictions medicine, nursing, counselling, occupational therapy and peer support.

Dr. Nelson Collins, South Island Medical director and South Island Psychiatry Division head, emphasizes the importance of this integrated approach. “The hub model is the best way to provide community mental-health and substance use services,” said Collins. “By bringing together a diverse team of experts under one roof, we can provide more cohesive, personalized care that adapts to each individual’s journey towards recovery.”

The Hub’s services were developed in consultation with local Indigenous communities to ensure they are culturally informed and relevant. This collaborative approach aims to make care accessible and appropriate for all community members.