We're Here to Help
All services are free for families.
Families can make a self-referral to our programs. We also accept referrals from physicians, educators, and other community professionals with consent.
Call 519-371-4773 or click the link below to make a referral.
Need to Talk to Someone Now?
Call One Stop Talk to meet with a counsellor immediately while you wait for an in-person session.
Referrals By Phone and In Person
To book an appointment, please call:
Visit us In Person:
Monday to Friday: 8:30am – 4:30pm
Join a Free Session at Keystone
We offer free, in-person and virtual drop-in groups and workshops for all ages.
We're Here to Listen
It’s ok to ask for help whatever your concern may be. As a child, youth, and family mental health lead agency we provide information, counselling, and support for families throughout Grey & Bruce counties.
If you have questions, please reach out. Please note: This is NOT intended for items of an urgent nature.
Common Questions
What is Keystone?
Keystone Child, Youth & Family Services is a voluntary, not-for-profit organization. It is the Lead Agency for Children’s Mental Health in Grey and Bruce Counties.
Keystone offers many types of mental health support for children and youth (from birth to age 17).
Here are some of the ways we help:
- Counselling – Talk to someone who listens and cares
- Programs to stay healthy – Fun activities to build skills and feel better
- Live-in support – A safe place to stay if more help is needed for eligible youth
- Crisis help – Support in urgent or emergency situations
- Youth justice programs – Help for youth involved in the legal system
- Special needs support – Help for children and youth with unique needs
- Service planning – Help families find and access the right supports in the community
We work closely with youth and families to make sure everyone feels heard, respected, and supported. Our team includes different kinds of helpers who work together to meet each family’s needs.
Who can call Keystone for help and how much does it cost?
Parents, youth and caregivers are always welcome to call Keystone. You can also ask a trusted friend or community professional to call Keystone on your behalf. Our intake staff will call you back for additional information if needed, and to get your consent for service.
There is no charge for any of our services. Our funding comes from a variety of government, local community and business sources as well as private donations.
Where should I call?
Call Keystone at (519) 371-4773 or 1-800-567-2384 anytime Monday to Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm.
Or Call One Stop Talk to connect with a counsellor right now.
1-855-416-TALK (8255) or connect online
Where is Keystone located?
Keystone is located at 1793 3rd Avenue West in Owen Sound, however we offer services in communities across Grey and Bruce Counties.
What programs and services does Keystone provide?
Keystone programs support families from before birth all the way to teenagers, and every stage in between. Visit the “Programs and Services” section of our site for more information and a full list of services.
Who works at Keystone?
Our staff are friendly, approachable, and caring. Keystone’s team includes professionals from many backgrounds. This includes counsellors trained in social work and psychology, community workers, child and youth workers, childcare assistants, early education assistants, nurses, and administrative staff.
Someone told me I had to go to Keystone. Is that true?
All Keystone services are voluntary. You are the only one who can decide if you want service.
How long will I have to wait for services?
We hope to book your first appointment within 2-3 weeks after you contact us. We also review all referrals for urgency and do our best to prioritize anyone who may be at risk.
Please note that Keystone is not an emergency service. If this is a crisis, please call The Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868, call the Crisis Line at 988, or go to your nearest Emergency Department.
Where do I receive service?
Keystone staff provide support to children, youth, and families in a variety of welcoming and accessible locations across Grey and Bruce counties.
Services are offered at our main office in Owen Sound, as well as in partner locations such as hospitals, CMHA offices, libraries, schools, churches, and even in family homes when needed. The setting depends on the program and what works best for you. Your Keystone worker will work with you to create a plan that meets your needs and ensures support is provided in a space that feels safe, comfortable, and convenient for you and your family.
What happens if my child/youth refuses to attend counselling?
Sometimes it is hard to address the difficulties a child/youth or their family may be experiencing. We encourage parents to make a referral anyway. Our counsellors will discuss ideas and strategies with you and come up with a plan.
Why should I call Keystone for help?
Life doesn’t always happen the way you had planned: please call us whenever you think your family or your child/youth could benefit from some extra mental health support. Many families access our services for a one-time check in. There is no concern too small or too big.
What will happen when I call you?
We do our best to answer all calls in person. However, if your call is not answered right away, you’re welcome to leave a message or complete an online referral directly through this website.
Our counselling intake staff will aim to return your call within two business days. When they connect with you, they’ll ask a few quick questions to understand your needs and will help book you an appointment with a counsellor or direct you to the right staff to reach out to you.
What if I need immediate help?
If you ever find yourself in need of urgent support, please call The Kids Help Phone at 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868, call the Crisis Line at 988, or go to your nearest Emergency Department.
Connect with One Stop Talk if you want to talk to a counsellor right away:
- Monday to Friday: 12PM – 8PM
- Saturday: 12 PM – 4 PM
Call 1-855-416-TALK (8255) or connect online from anywhere in Ontario!
How do I refer someone to your services?
Getting connected to support is simple. You can make a referral for yourself or someone else by filling out the form here:
How can I become involved in helping Keystone?
At Keystone we appreciate and value a helping hand. If you are interested in volunteering, looking for career opportunities, or looking to make a donation please reach out.
What if I have a complaint?
Keystone is committed to providing the very best service to its clients, their families, community partners and members of the public, including working with you to resolve any concerns or complaints you may have.
If you have any concerns about the services you are receiving start the problem-solving process by talking with your clinician about your concerns. If you require further support or have feedback, suggestions or advice please use our contact page to connect with us.
Keystone will respond to client concerns of any nature, in a timely and respectful manner. We are required by Accreditation standards to document and report any trends to the Board of Directors on an annual basis.
If you feel your concern/complaint is still unresolved, you can contact:
Ombudsman of Ontario
ombudsman.on.ca | 1-800-263-1830