Hazelglen is a non-referral based service accessed only to those who present in crisis to the Emergency Room. It is a voluntary and intensive short-term outpatient program for individuals 18 years or older who live in Waterloo Region who are experiencing a serious mental health crisis. The service’s main goal is to help a person get through an acute mental health crisis without the need for hospitalization and will provide various treatment approaches such as individual support, family education, crisis management, mental health education, and medication management.

Generally, an individual can expect to be involved in the program between 4 and 12 weeks with a discharge plan for the family physician to provide follow-up care. Hazelglen will help link people to appropriate services and resources for ongoing support once a crisis has passed.

What happens when I am a client of Hazelglen?

Both a psychiatrist and a case manager, either a registered nurse or social worker, will help support you. Your case manager will be your primary support clinician during your involvement with Hazelglen.

The consulting psychiatrist assesses, diagnoses and monitors treatment. The type of treatment you receive and the frequency of contacts with your case manager and psychiatrist will be specific to your needs.

What can I expect from my case manager?
  • Frequent support available through a combination of in-person office, community/home, or phone visits that meet your individual need to support symptom management and treatment
  • Ensure you have the medications you require while you are a client with the Hazelglen program
  • Assist in coordinating and linking to appropriate community based supports and follow-up resources.
  • Help you learn as much as possible about your illness, symptoms, and treatment to support your recovery.
  • Support around any concerns and side effects that may be related to prescribed medications.
  • Collaboration and information sharing with the psychiatrist as it relates to your care
How can you actively participate in your treatment?
  • Keeping all scheduled appointments with your case manager and psychiatrist
  • Provide at least 48hours notice if you need to cancel or change an appointment time
  • Be open and honest when talking about your concerns and sharing of thoughts as they arise
  • Take your medications as prescribed and inform your case manager and psychiatrist of any medication concerns
  • Ask questions if you are unclear about your treatment plan