About The Program
The Opening Doors Project: Short-Term Counselling Program offers non-clinical, solution-focused counselling to support newcomers facing settlement-related challenges. Eligible clients include Permanent Residents, Protected Persons, Resettled Refugees, Approved Future Permanent Residents, some Temporary Foreign Workers, and clients of IRCC-funded agencies. The program includes one intake session followed by five short-term counselling sessions, all conducted in English with interpretation available upon request.
Clients can self-refer by completing the form provided, and a team member will follow up directly. This program is designed to provide timely, culturally responsive support during key moments of transition.
The Opening Doors Project is funded by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
Who's It For
The following individuals are eligible to participate:
- Permanent Residents of Canada
- Protected Persons
- Approved Future Permanent Residents
- Resettled Refugees
- Some Temporary Foreign Workers
- IRCC-funded agencies with eligible clients
- For more details on eligible clients, see here.
How IT Works
- Fill out the referral form – Clients complete the self-referral form below. A team member from CMHA Toronto will reach out to confirm eligibility and schedule the first session.
- Meet your counsellor – In the first session, clients will discuss their current challenges and begin to co-create a personalized recovery and support plan.
- Attend your sessions – Clients receive five additional short-term counselling sessions focused on their settlement goals, well-being, and next steps.
Referral
FORM
Phone
Email
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is eligible for the Short-Term Counselling Program?
Eligible clients include Permanent Residents, Protected Persons, Resettled Refugees, Approved Future Permanent Residents, some Temporary Foreign Workers, and clients of IRCC-funded agencies.
How many sessions are included in the program?
The program includes a total of six sessions: one intake session and five short-term counselling sessions.
Do I need a referral to access the program?
No, you can self-refer. Just fill out the online form, and a CMHA Toronto team member will contact you to get started.
What language are the sessions offered in?
Sessions are offered in English, but interpretation services are available upon request and availability.
What kinds of issues can I talk about with a counsellor?
You can talk about any challenges related to your settlement journey, including stress, isolation, housing, employment, family adjustment, and other personal concerns.
Is there a cost for the counselling sessions?
No, the sessions are completely free for eligible clients, thanks to funding from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Contact Us
West Office
700 Lawrence Ave W,
Suite #480 Toronto,
ON M6A 3B4
East Office
1200 Markham Rd,
Suite #500 Scarborough,
ON M1H 3C3
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