Psychological health is important to us all. Each February, from psychological associations, to scientists, to psychology residents, psychologists organize local public education and outreach activities to facilitate awareness of psychological health in our communities to mark Psychology Month.

Psychologists add value to all aspects of wellness by formulating evidence based methods of treatment, assessment, education, and research. The newly developed Kelty Online Therapy Service at VCH is another way that psychologists are collaborating to build capacity to access mental health services across the health region. Recently, in a joint initiative with the Divisions of Family Practice and VCHA, psychology also has entered Primary Care, to increase access to expert psychological services in the family practice setting.

VCH team

Psychologists in our region enjoy working with interdisciplinary teams to make valuable contributions in service areas that include the Kelty Online Therapy Service at VCH, Primary Care services at Raven Song, Vocational assessments at Gastown Vocational Services, addictions services at Burnaby Mental Health Centre, psychological assessment, solid organ transplantation, geriatric services, neuropsychology, sexual health at Vancouver General, acquired brain injury and rehabilitation at GF Strong, the Alzheimer’s Clinic, occupational stress, psychosis and mood disorders program at UBC Hospital, eating disorders, heart centre and HIV clinic at St. Pauls’ to name a few.

Resources for staff

If you are struggling with the effects of stress, free and confidential help is available through the VCH Employee & Family Assistance Program. Call toll free 1.800.505.4929 or visit www.efap.ca. Also, join us at one of our awareness events, listed in the VCH events calendar.