Business Details
26 Years
experience
Emergency
services
Free Mental Health Services for Children and Youth in Simcoe County
Founded in 2000 through the amalgamation of four child and youth mental health providers, New Path Youth & Family Services has dedicated over two decades to delivering accessible, inclusive mental health support across Simcoe County. Our team of over 100 professionals employs evidence-based practices to address emotional, social, and behavioral challenges for children, youth, and families. Guided by core values of compassion, inclusivity, and collaboration, we prioritize equity, diversity, and belonging in all services. As Simcoe County's Lead Agency for Child and Youth Mental Health, we ensure integrated access to counseling, crisis intervention, and specialized programs like Triple P parenting and culturally relevant care for Black families.Our strategic partnerships with organizations like Dnaagdawenmag Binnoojiiyag Child & Family Services enhance service equity, while continuous quality improvement initiatives maintain our high standards. With funding from provincial ministries and community donors, we provide free services through 10+ locations, virtual platforms, and school-based programs, serving over 3,000 clients annually.
Services
Mental health counseling
Parenting programs
Crisis intervention
Culturally specific therapy
School-based support
Virtual counseling
Family therapy
Youth peer support
Details
- Year established: 2000
Highlights and features
- We offer 24/7 crisis support through partnerships with local mental health lines
- Our team includes registered social workers and psychotherapists with specialized training
- We provide culturally relevant care through Black therapist access programs
- We implement evidence-based Triple P parenting programs with 35+ years of research backing
- We maintain 10+ accessible locations across Simcoe County with virtual options available
What people say
Life-changing support
Compassionate staff
Effective crisis help
Accessible locations
Transformative parenting programs
Services
Mental Health Counseling
Professional counseling for children and youth aged 0-18 addresses anxiety, depression, trauma, and behavioral challenges. Our registered therapists use evidence-based approaches to improve emotional regulation and family dynamics. Sessions occur in-person, online, or at schools, with referrals to specialized programs when needed.
Triple P Parenting Program
Research-backed parenting courses teach behavior management strategies for children up to 12 years and teens. Group sessions combine skill-building with personalized coaching to strengthen family relationships and prevent escalation of behavioral issues through practical, science-based techniques.
Crisis Intervention
24/7 crisis services address urgent mental health needs through telephone support, mobile outreach, and coordination with emergency departments. Our team collaborates with regional crisis lines to stabilize acute situations and connect families with follow-up care.
Black Youth and Family Program
Culturally relevant mental health services connect Black children, youth, and families with Black therapists who understand systemic barriers. This program combines cultural competence with evidence-based practices to address racial trauma and promote emotional wellness.
School-Based Counseling
In-school mental health services provide accessible support for students experiencing social, emotional, or behavioral challenges. Counselors collaborate with educators to implement strategies that improve academic performance and peer relationships while maintaining confidentiality.
People
Jim Harris
Chief Executive Officer
Jim Harris leads New Path with over 25 years of executive experience in child and youth mental health. He champions system integration and equity-focused service delivery across Simcoe County.
Lisa Cluett
Director of Services
Lisa Cluett oversees clinical operations with a focus on evidence-based practices and service innovation. Her 20+ years in social work inform our trauma-informed care approach.
Gord Bain
Manager of Clinical Services
Gord Bain supervises clinical teams delivering direct care services. With a background in child and youth care, he ensures frontline staff maintain high therapeutic standards.
Dominika Zapolnik
Manager of Communications
Dominika Zapolnik leads outreach initiatives connecting communities with mental health resources. Her strategic communications ensure accessible information about our services reaches diverse populations.
Bijumon Peter
Director of Operations
Bijumon Peter manages organizational infrastructure supporting service delivery. His operational expertise ensures efficient resource allocation across our 10+ service locations.
Questions
Are your mental health services free?
Yes, all counseling and support programs are fully funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
How do I book an appointment?
Book online through our Quick Access Counselling Clinic portal or call 705-725-7656 for same-day or virtual appointments.
What mental health issues do you address?
We support anxiety, depression, trauma, behavioral challenges, family conflicts, and crisis situations for children and youth aged 0-18.
Do you offer culturally specific services?
Yes, our Black Youth and Family Program provides culturally relevant therapy through Black mental health professionals.
Are services available in French?
Yes, we offer full mental health services in French through bilingual clinicians across all locations.
What crisis support options exist?
Contact our 24/7 crisis line at 705-728-5044 or use the 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline for immediate mental health emergencies.
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