About the Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP) Program
The Ontario Structured Psychotherapy (OSP) Program provides publicly funded, evidence-based treatment for adults living with depression and anxiety-related conditions. Services include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and related approaches that focus on practical skill-building to support recovery. Treatment is delivered through a stepped model based on individual need, with most patients beginning with guided self-help.
CBT and related therapies are available for:
- Depression and low mood
- Generalized anxiety and worry
- Panic attacks and agoraphobic fears
- Social anxiety and performance fears
- Health anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive symptoms
- Specific phobias
- Posttraumatic stress
- Other anxiety- and stress-related concerns
Eligibility
The OSP program offers a range of services for adults (18+) in Ontario.
If you are looking for treatment of youth aged 15–17, you may access the BounceBack program through the Canadian Mental Health Association.
Services offered
OSP provides services in a number of clinical areas and through a variety for formats for different demographics and patient needs. Browse the listing below to see what programs are available.
The type and intensity of service is matched to the individual’s needs following clinical screening and assessment.
- Guided self-help: Programs such as BounceBack and clinician-assisted bibliotherapy (CAB), delivered by phone.
- Internet-based CBT (iCBT): Therapist-guided CBT offered online.
- Individual and group CBT: Sessions delivered virtually or in person, based on clinical need and availability.
- Mood and anxiety: 15-week transdiagnostic groups for low mood, generalized anxiety, social anxiety, or panic.
- Posttraumatic stress: 12-week Cognitive Processing Therapy groups.
- Depression: 12-week groups focused on low mood and related symptoms.
- Obsessive-compulsive symptoms: 16-week groups combining psychoeducation, cognitive therapy, and exposure with response prevention.
Individuals are monitored throughout treatment to ensure clinical progress and appropriateness of care. Transitions to other services within or beyond OSP are made as needed. Primary care providers are kept informed of treatment progress and outcomes.
Referrals
Individuals can start the referral process by using AccessMHA or by scheduling an appointment with their primary care provider.
AccessMHA.ca is a free service that connects people in eastern Ontario to mental health and substance use services. Once a referral form is submitted, an AccessMHA staff member will contact you to schedule a screening appointment.
Primary care providers and psychiatrists can make referrals for their patients through the Ocean eReferral platform or through AccessMHA.ca. If OSP is not the right fit, AccessMHA will provide direction to alternate services.
Individuals will be contacted by phone for a brief screening. If appropriate, they will be booked for a full intake and triage assessment to determine the best treatment option. Referring providers will receive updates on referral status, treatment decisions, and outcomes.
Our Partners
The Royal is a partner in providing services for OSP alongside other local and regional mental health providers and facilities.
