Community Outreach Assessment Support and Treatment Team (COAST) - Dual Diagnosis Program (Intellectual Disability in combination with Mental Illness)

The COAST team provides mental health services for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities who also have a mental health concern.

To receive services from COAST, people must:

• Be 19 years of age or older
• Have a diagnosis of moderate to profound intellectual or developmental disability (diagnosed before age 18)
• Have a co-existing psychiatric diagnosis or concern (dual diagnosis)
• Be medically stable

What does “Moderate,” “Severe,” and “Profound” mean?

• Moderate disability: People often need support with learning new skills, daily routines, and social situations. Communication is usually fair to good, and many people can express their wants and needs, though they may still need support with more complex communication
• Severe disability: People need more support in most areas of daily life. Communication is often very limited/nonverbal, and learning is slower.
• Profound disability: People need support with nearly every part of daily life, including personal care and communication. They are usually nonverbal.

COAST services are not for people with:

• Current or past alcohol or drug use problems
• A history with the justice system (forensic history)
• A need for psychological testing including Autism assessments
• A primary need for housing or community placement

What COAST provides:

• Mental health assessments by a psychiatrist and registered nurse, with a detailed report and recommendations
• Short-term treatment and support from team members
• Consultation and collaboration with family doctors and other providers

Please note: COAST does not provide ongoing counselling, psychotherapy, or housing/residential placement.