What we do

Treatment

CAPE’s approach includes assessment, short-term intervention, and discharge planning during a short inpatient stay of one to five days. Diagnostic assessment includes daily psychiatric interviews, standardized questionnaires, family interviews, appropriate laboratory investigations, and neuro imaging. In addition, information is obtained from family doctors, community mental health workers, schools, and Ministry of Children and Families social workers. Pediatric (e.g. neurology, endocrinology) consultations are available as needed. A bio-psycho-social approach is applied at all stages.

The unit provides a safe, low-stimulus, and closely monitored environment in which to complete an assessment. Staff provides active support and psycho-education. There is a therapeutic emphasis on identifying and promoting the strengths of the patient and the family, working toward improving problem-solving and coping skills, and optimizing motivation to follow through with continuing care in the community. Medications are used to treat primary psychiatric disorders.

Discharge

Discharge planning begins on admission. Community resources are identified, referrals made, and invitations extended for community workers to attend discharge meetings. Patients who cannot be safely discharged and who require further assessment and stabilization are referred to a longer-stay inpatient unit. Discharge meetings involve CAPE staff, family or MCFD Guardian, the patient (depending on age), and community care providers when possible. Admission histories and discharge summaries are forwarded to family physicians, referring psychiatrists, community mental health teams, and other community care providers.

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