Program Details
Type: Intensive, Out of Home
For: Youth
Ages: 10-18 years
Fees: Free
Location
Out of Home Treatment
Forest Avenue
135 Forest Avenue
Hamilton, ON L8N 1X6
905-527-3396
Referrals
Referrals to the Forest Avenue Program are made through Contact Hamilton.
Youth with dual diagnosis aren’t ‘problems to solve’—they’re young people learning to navigate the world differently. Respite care gives them space to grow, families room to recharge, and everyone the tools to succeed.
Program Details
The Forest Avenue Program is a 6-bed, intensive out of home treatment program for youth aged 10-18, offering specialized care, structure, and hope during challenging times.
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The Forest Avenue Program is part of the Children with Complex Needs Partnership service array which includes case management support and respite support.
The goal of this program is to empower youth to live successfully at home while giving caregivers the support they need to recharge.
Respite Care
Short-term stays designed to prevent burnout for families
Consistent, scheduled breaks tailored to each family’s needs
Skill-Building and Stability
Helps youth develop daily living and coping skills
Supports smoother transitions between home and respite stays
Clinical Expertise
Child and youth workers, on site Occupational Therapist, and collaboration with consultative resources such as a nurse practitioner and social worker
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Each families receive services 1x/month on a rotating basis.
An individualized treatment plan is developed according to each youth’s situation, their developmental stage, and their individual diagnosis.
Parents and guardians, are considered a vital part of the treatment team and will be encouraged to work closely with the program team.
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We will support children attending their current school placement, or will work with them to explore other school options, if that is a goal.
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A team of professional Child and Youth Workers, an on site Occupational Therapist, and various other roles to support with meal preparation and building maintenance.
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The team can call on an array of clinical resources, including a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Therapist, FASD consultant, Clinical Assessments and Measures, and Complex Needs consultant.
Who We Help
Youth (10-18 years) with a dual diagnosis (developmental needs + mental health in combination with challenging behaviours) that have made home life unstable or unsafe.
Youth who require more support than outpatient care can provide.
Families who need planned, regular respite to maintain stability at home.
Youth who would benefit from structured support while staying connected to their family.
Why Families Choose the Forest Avenue Program
Family-Focused Healing: we understand that youth with dual diagnosis and their families need specialized support which includes giving families the break they need to avoid burnout.
Therapeutic Environment: A balance of structure + support, with 24/7 care ensuring safety and stability.
Personalized Care: Each child gets an individual treatment plan to develop and support their ability to thrive within their own family homes.
School Integration: We help children stay connected to education—whether in their community school or alternative programs.
Respite isn’t just a break—it’s a chance for families to reset, recharge, and keep moving forward together.
Our ultimate goal? To empower each child with the skills, confidence and support they need to thrive—whether that means returning home with new coping tools, or stepping down to less intensive care with newfound resilience. At the Forest Avenue Program, we don’t just provide a service—we help youth to live successfully at home while giving caregivers the support and hope they need to stay strong.
How to Access Services
The Forest Avenue Program is for youth with a dual diagnosis whose families require respite and/or additional support to maintain the youth within the home.
Eligibility
Referrals for The Forest Avenue Program are made through Contact Hamilton. Please use the button below.