Amid a surge in youth mental health challenges, the City of Montreal announced the opening of four new youth mental health centers in June 2025. These centers are strategically located in neighborhoods most affected by youth distress.
They offer free, accessible, and stigma-free support for youth aged 12 to 25.
🧑⚕️ Tailored, Multidisciplinary Services
Each center offers:
- On-site psychologists and social workers
- Individual and group therapy
- Stress and anxiety management workshops
- Support for families and school reintegration
Flexible evening and weekend hours ensure better accessibility for young people with busy or unstable schedules.
🤝 Community-Led and Publicly Funded
This initiative is led by Montreal Public Health in partnership with community organizations, secondary schools, and local health centers (CLSCs). A $10 million budget over two years supports the rollout.
The goal: early intervention to prevent major mental health crises.
💬 Youth Voices at the Center
Youth were directly involved in the design of the centers, ensuring welcoming, inclusive, and non-clinical spaces.
“It doesn’t feel like a clinic — it’s a safe place to talk,” says Sarah, 17, part of the pilot project.
🌟 A Scalable Model for Quebec?
If successful, this model may expand across Quebec. Montreal is setting a new standard in youth mental health by focusing on prevention, accessibility, and trust.
