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Huron-Perth Walk-In Counselling to Provide Faster Access to Mental Health Support

September 09, 2026

A new collaborative initiative will make it easier for people across Huron and Perth Counties to access timely mental health support when they need it. 

Beginning the week of September 14, 2026, Huron Health System, Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Huron Perth, Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Thames Valley, and Medavie Mobile Mental Health will launch Huron-Perth Walk-In Counselling, a new pathway for individuals aged 16 and older to connect with a therapy session without an appointment. 

The initiative brings together members of the Huron Perth Addiction and Mental Health Alliance to expand access to counselling and help people connect with the right care at the right time. 

“Making it easier for people to access support when they need it is an important part of building a stronger local system of care,” said Jimmy Trieu, President & CEO of Huron Health System. “This new program will create another pathway for people to connect with mental health support when they are ready to reach out. It is also an excellent example of what can happen when local organizations work together.” 

Walk-in counselling is intended for individuals experiencing mental health concerns who would benefit from timely access to a therapy session. People can access the service when they need it and return as often as needed, helping ensure they receive support that reflects their circumstances and needs.

"Having same day access across the mental health and addiction system in Huron Perth is a significant step forward for our system. For the first time, people can access services in a number of locations via a number of organizations, but still receive the same care,” says Catherine Hardman, CEO of CMHA Huron Perth. “Mental health and addiction issues continue to grow in our communities and increasing access to care across the spectrum is vital to managing the increasing demand." 

A full schedule of walk-in counselling opportunities across Huron and Perth Counties will be available through the Huron Health System website at www.huronhealthsystem.ca/walk-in-counselling. Individuals looking for more information about the program can also contact the Huron-Perth Helpline and Crisis Response Team at 1-888-829-7484.