Family Services

Family services at The Royal 

Family members of clients at The Royal are often enlisted to help their loved ones but also benefit from support for themselves. As such, The Royal offers a variety of resources to meet family and caregiver needs for information, education, and support.

Family information and support sessions

As a family member or caregiver, we understand that your loved one’s mental health or substance use health can have a significant impact on you. 

The Royal’s family information and support sessions are 90-minute, expert-led, live (not pre-recorded) events that highlight topics of interest to families and caregivers. They are an opportunity to learn from experts, find out about available resources, and connect with others. There is no cost to participate but registration is required. Most sessions take place on Zoom between September and June.

Past sessions include: 

  • Caring for loved ones with bipolar disorder
  • Setting healthy boundaries
  • Sleep disorders and tips for getting a good night's rest
  • Insights into mental health, housing, and homelessness
  • Demystifying treatment approaches for people with schizophrenia
  • What is validation and how it can improve relationships
  • Helping teens through tough times
  • How to engage loved ones with a substance use disorder 

The topics are developed based on the feedback of past participants and developed to empower family, friends and supporters’ wellness, coping, and relationships.  

Other programs available to families of clients at The Royal include LEAP: Listen Empathize Agree & Partner (a two-part workshop that takes place in the spring and fall) and mental health first aid (offered on an annual basis).

Join our email list to be notified when family sessions and programs are offered

The Client and Family Resource Hub 

The Hub is a safe and welcoming space that serves as a one-stop-shop to support clients and families by providing information and resources, including peer support

Click here for more information about The Hub and the services offered.

Mental health and addictions resource libraries

Families are welcome at The Royal’s resource libraries, located at the Royal Ottawa Mental Health Centre and the Brockville Mental Health Centre. Click here for more information and operating hours.

Links to more information and support services

Other information

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Join our family and caregiver mailing list

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Tips for Virtual Appointments

Electronique bulletin

Family Voice Bulletin

Members of the Family Council

Family Advisory Council