Dalhousie University has launched the Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health, a new clinic that provides free mental health care to underserved populations in Nova Scotia. The clinic, operated by graduate students in Dalhousie’s clinical psychology program under the supervision of registered clinical psychologists, aims to bridge gaps in clinical training and improve access to mental health care for vulnerable communities.
While the official opening took place recently, the clinic began accepting patients in June. Patients are referred to the facility through community organizations and local health clinics. The services offered are entirely free, aligning with the provincial government’s commitment to delivering universal mental health and addictions services. The government has allocated $4.5 million over three years to fund the clinic in partnership with Dalhousie University.
The Dalhousie Centre for Psychological Health specifically targets individuals who face barriers to accessing mental health treatment. This includes individuals with low incomes who cannot afford private psychological services and those who are unaware of how to apply for publicly funded treatment.
Brian Comer, the provincial minister responsible for the Office of Mental Health and Addictions, highlighted the clinic’s significance in providing access to vulnerable populations.
The clinic’s co-director, Dr. Shannon Johnson, noted that they are collaborating with community organizations to identify clients in need. Johnson emphasized that the clinic addresses a critical gap in clinical training, offering students opportunities to work with marginalized and underserved populations.
Students at the clinic will gain valuable experience working with clients, and their work will be supervised by registered clinical psychologists. Patrick Hickey, who participated in the clinic as part of his PhD studies, attested to the impact of their efforts in making psychological support more accessible, comprehensive, and timely for clients.
The observations and insights gathered from the clinic will contribute to the development of Nova Scotia’s universal mental health and addictions system, as part of the Action for Health plan to enhance healthcare services in the province.
