Renovation of Mental Health Unit Underway at AMGH
August 21, 2025
Alexandra
Marine and General Hospital (AMGH) is currently undertaking a significant
renovation project in its Mental Health Unit. More than just a physical
upgrade, this initiative reflects a strong commitment to enhancing the quality
of patient care and the overall experience for those seeking mental health
support at AMGH.
The
renovation is progressing through three planned phases, made possible by
generous donations facilitated by the Alexandra Marine and General Hospital
Foundation. The hospital is currently in the first phase, which includes
expanding and renovating the nurses’ station, along with constructing a new
medication room. The second phase will feature a new staff washroom, a patient
laundry room, and a kitchenette for patients. The final phase will complete the
patient dining room, replace the solarium window, and refresh the patient
lounge and group room, transforming them into brighter, more welcoming spaces.
The hospital is hopeful that the final phase will be completed by the end of
February 2026.
“Investing
in mental health is vital to building a community where stigma is diminished
and everyone feels empowered to seek the care they need,” said Jimmy Trieu,
President & CEO of Huron Health System. “By upgrading our facilities to
create a more welcoming and functional environment, we can better support
patients and their families through every step of recovery. We are grateful to
our donors whose generosity has made this possible, and to our dedicated
psychiatrists and staff who bring compassion and expertise to every patient
interaction.”
While
construction continues, mental health services at AMGH remain fully
operational. Huron Community Mental Health Services, the hospital’s
community-based program, provides high-quality, patient-centered care to
individuals experiencing moderate to severe mental health challenges. Delivered
by regulated health professionals, the program offers individual, goal-focused
counselling, skills training, and group therapy across five sites throughout
Huron County. Group sessions include Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT),
Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), assertiveness training, a newly introduced
self-compassion group, to name a few, as well as psycho-social rehabilitation
programs. Additionally, AMGH serves as a satellite site for specialized eating
disorder support.
“Health care touches all of us at some point in our lives, which
is why every donation holds meaning and creates a lasting impact,” said Kimberley Payne, Executive
Director of the AMGH Foundation. “Thanks to the support from donors
to the All In Campaign, renovations to the Mental Health Unit are underway.
Meanwhile, key improvements, such as safe rooms in both the Emergency
Department and the Mental Health Unit, along with an upgraded patient washroom,
have already been completed. These renovations are about more than just
improving spaces; they’re about building a stronger community for us all.”
This
fall, the team will welcome two new psychiatrists, Dr. Anne Rose and Dr.
Michele Doering. Both bring significant experience, with Dr. Doering offering
specialized expertise in geriatric psychiatry.
With the
support of dedicated professionals, growing programs, and continued investment
in its facilities, AMGH remains committed to supporting the mental health and
well-being of the communities it serves.