Mental health is so important–especially for newcomers to Canada. We’re featuring free mental health resources for refugee newcomers in the Greater Toronto Area.

Access Alliance – For refugee newcomers seeking a proactive approach to mental health that includes counselling services, primary care, settlement, and community programs, and more.

Achev – Through their “Stronger Together” program, Achev addresses gender-based violence (GBV) through confidential, trauma-informed one-on-one counselling, peer support groups, and customized staff training or community workshops. The program promotes education, early intervention, and survivor empowerment to strengthen frontline response and foster lasting change across the Greater Toronto Area. Services are available online and in-person.

Canadian Centre for Refugee & Immigrant Health Care – For free, confidential counselling for issues related to the unique experiences of refugees and newcomers in their lives prior to arrival, during their journey to Canada, and upon settling in the Greater Toronto Area.

Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture – For supportive, non-judgmental counselling that helps survivors of torture to develop trust and regain a sense of empowerment. This includes assessment by in-house psychiatrists, psychologists and family doctors, crisis intervention, and individual and group counselling.

Polycultural Immigrant and Community Services – In Mississauga and Toronto, Polycultural provides confidential short-term counselling at no cost for youth, adults and families who are in need of crisis counselling. They serve refugees who are adjusting to Canadian life, struggling with trauma, and experiencing family conflict, and more.