The current operational tempo of the Canadian Forces (CF) means increasing numbers of military families may be faced with the mental and emotional challenges of separation and reunion. Coupled with a shortage of mental health professionals nationwide, finding support throughout the deployment period can be difficult for CF families.

To help meet these challenges, the Valcartier Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) will pilot a project to expand access to mental health and social support by hiring a specialized mental health professional for Valcartier-based CF families. The counsellor will provide tailored mental health and social support using a deployment cycle-based mental health model. Throughout the pilot project, Valcartier will assess the positive impact of this new position on CF families and the community. Following the completion of this pilot, DMFS will consider the viability of replicating a similar mental health and social support model at all MFRC locations.