The new Civic site for mental health service Canberra Head to Health was officially opened by Emma McBride MP, Assistant Minister for Mental Health and Suicide Prevention, this week.
The Canberra Head to Health Centre provides free and accessible mental health services to adults, without an appointment or referral.
“Canberrans no longer have to wait weeks or even months for mental health support,” Jason McCrae, Think Mental Health director and clinical psychologist, said.
The new Head to Health Centre moved from Deakin to 14 Childers Street, Civic, “the heart of Canberra City”.
Staffed by a multidisciplinary team of psychologists, mental health workers, and social workers, the new centre provides additional space in a more accessible and central location, with bigger treatment spaces, making it easier for Canberrans to access free support in-person. Support is also available online or over the phone.
“The centre’s new facilities, services, and more convenient location will provide easier access to free mental health services,” Mr McCrae said.
“We’re in close walking distance from the bus interchange and light rail terminus, and easily accessible for anyone with mobility issues. We’re also located close to the ANU campus to help support students.”
In a year, the centre has received more than 3,800 phone calls, more than 500 individuals completed clinical assessments, and delivered more than 900 clinical sessions, Megan Cahill, Capital Health Network (CHN) CEO, said.
CHN, ACT’s primary health network , commissioned Think Mental Health to develop and deliver this service to the Canberra community. Canberra Head to Health is supported by funding from the ACT Primary Health Network (PHN) through the Australian Government’s PHN Program.
“Canberra Head to Health has been demonstrating its value to the local community, providing a safe and welcoming place for people needing mental health supports over the past year and filling areas of service gaps in local services,” Ms McBride said.
“The Australian Government is funding this service to ensure people can get the help they need, when they need it, with no out of pocket costs.”
Emma Davidson MLA, ACT Minister for Mental Health, said: “The ACT is striving for an accessible and integrated mental health system that promotes positive wellbeing, early intervention, prevention, and rehabilitation. Mental illness should be destigmatised and responded to without judgement. That’s what Canberrans need, and that’s what’s happening at Head to Health.”
For more information, phone 1800 595 212 or visit www.canberraheadtohealth.com.au. No appointment or referral required.
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