Letter: Why can’t Albertans access private psychologists in their communities?

The Alberta Government is being petitioned for improved access to psychologists for all Albertans.

Many Psychologists are becoming increasingly concerned for the mental health of Albertans. Access to mental health supports are centralized in the medical care system, which is designed for acute physical or psychiatric crises, not mental health intervention.

Neither family doctors nor hospitals are adequately equipped to deal with escalating mental health issues. The system is significantly overextended. Depression and anxiety are at critical levels. Youth are turned away from hospitals after being labelled ‘chronic’ rather than at immediate risk of suicide.

Treatment programs struggle to address historical trauma underpinning addictions. Children with complex mental health needs are on long wait lists for treatment, as are those who have been sexually assaulted.