How do I get referred to the Clinic?

How long will I wait for services?

Am I eligible to use the OSI Clinic?

Will going to the OSI Clinic hurt my professional career?

How many appointments do I get?

Will I run into people I know at the clinic?

Does the clinic have inpatient beds?

Can I come on a walk-in basis?

Are you open evenings or weekends?

I am concerned about a family member who may have an OSI. What should I do?

What kind of services can family members get?

How do I get referred to the clinic?

See "How to access services"

How long will I wait for services?

New referrals are evaluated for urgency and other factors. Once your referral is received by the OSI Clinic, you will be contacted within 1 to 2 business days and the Psychiatric Nurse will discuss the next possible time for an intake appointment. Our objective is to arrange an initial appointment within 15 business days (3 weeks) of receiving a referral.

 Am I eligible to use the OSI Clinic?

The referral sources are Veterans Affairs Canada, the Canadian Forces (CF), or the RCMP and they will determine whether you are eligible to receive services at the OSI Clinic. In a small number of cases, a person's presenting issues and history make it clear that military or police service has not been the primary cause of their concerns. In these situations, we provide information on other services that may be more suitable for them.

 Will going to the OSI Clinic hurt my professional career?

This is a common fear. Receiving treatment for an OSI does not mean your career will end. Most clients active in the CF or the RCMP discover that their careers are enhanced by the improvement in their coping abilities and quality of life. It is important to note that the decision to release from duties is made by the CF or the RCMP andnotby the OSI Clinic.

How many appointments do I get?

At the start of treatment we develop a treatment plan with each individual which establishes an initial commitment. As we work with people we eventually reach a point where both they and their service provider agree that services are no longer needed. There is mutual agreement to end the service.

 Will I run into people I know at the OSI Clinic?

The OSI Clinic is a busy place and there is a chance that you may run into a colleague in the waiting area. We find that individuals are respectful in maintaining client confidentiality.

Does the OSI Clinic have inpatient beds?

We provide only outpatient services, however there is a Residential Treatment Clinic for Operational Stress Injuries through Veterans Affairs Canada (VAC) at Ste. Anne's Hospital near Montréal.

Can I access services on a walk-in basis?

Because of our mandate to provide services to clients from specific programs we are unable to accommodate walk-in clients. If you have already been to the OSI Clinic for at least one appointment you can call your therapist and request an earlier appointment, if it is available. However, if you are very distressed after hours or if you are not a client, you should call the Mobile Crisis Team at 506- 453-2132 or go to your nearest Emergency Department. Otherwise all services are by scheduled appointment.

Are you open evenings or weekends?

We are open Monday to Friday from 8: 00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

I am concerned about a family member who may have an OSI. What should I do?

You may be noticing changes in behaviors that may indicate your loved one has been severely affected by a stressful experience. If you cannot discuss it with your family member directly you should first talk to his or her family physician to report your concern. If you have more general questions or if you want more information about what the behavior may mean, we do provide brief consults to family members.

What kind of services can family members get?

See our page on services for families.