For their pilot project, the Valcartier Military Family Resource Centre (MFRC) has hired a specialized mental health professional to provide clinical mental health support for Canadian Forces (CF) families. The pilot was established to address the unique stresses placed on CF families by increased operational tempo, including frequent deployments and training cycles.

Since the launch of the project in March 2009, the Valcartier MFRC has developed terms of reference for the Family Counsellor position and has successfully added the new counsellor to their staff. The Family Counsellor’s responsibilities include providing clinical support, as well as engaging in community awareness and educational activities regarding the mental health of CF families.

Thus far, the pilot has shown promising results for families in the Valcartier community. The new Family Counsellor has eliminated the wait list for mental health services in the community, and dozens of CF families have had the opportunity to receive ongoing clinical services for issues ranging from marital difficulties to child behavioural concerns.

The results of this pilot project will be included in DMFS’ comprehensive analysis of the proposed enhancements for the Military Family Services Program. Those projects that are selected to proceed will then be proposed for endorsement by Chief Military Personnel.