Alberta Brain Injury Network (ABIN) – Central Region is part of a province wide network servicing adults with an acquired brain injury and their families. Our program at CMHA Central Alberta serves people in Stettler, Rimbey, Wetaskiwin, and surrounding areas as well as those in Red Deer.
Service Coordinators provide:
Support: Identifying and responding to the needs of survivors, families and caregivers.
Coordination: Assisting survivors to access necessary supports and resources in their community.
Community Capacity: Increasing community awareness, building partnerships and seeking opportunities to promote inclusive communities.
Education: Providing opportunities to enhance knowledge and understanding of acquired brain injury.
Additional supports may also be available through the Supports for Community Living Program.
What is the Supports for Community Living Program?
The Supports for Community Living (SCL) program provides short term flexible supports to a person who has sustained a brain injury.
The emphasis is on developing and learning daily living skills and to promote and maximize each individual’s independence. The role of the
SCL worker is to provide training to these individuals in preparation for independent living and to provide support and modeling for the client’s support network, helping them to develop support skills that contribute to long term solutions for the client.
How Much Support is Provided and for How Long?
The amount and type of support provided is based upon individual need. A Service Plan, developed by the individual and the Alberta Brain Injury Service Coordinator, outlines the goals the individual wishes to work on. Service Plans are reviewed on a regular basis with the ultimate goal being that formal supports fade out over time as support networks are created. The number of hours provided per month to an individual is determined by the individual’s need, the goals they wish to work on, and support available. It may be necessary to prioritize goals.
Canadian Mental Health Association works in partnership with Catholic Social Services to deliver the ABIN program
Who is This Program For?
This program is for people over the age of 18 who are living with a diagnosed, acquired brain injury.
Examples of a brain injury include:
- Traumatic brain injury, like a blow to the head, concussion or motor vehicle accident
- Brain tumors
- Brain infections, like meningitis and encephalitis
- Lack of oxygen to the brain for a period of time
- Strokes
- Violent shaking or whiplash injuries
How Do I Access This Program?
Referrals may be made through a number of sources, including directly contacting our office at 403-342-2266. A referral can be made on your behalf by others such as medical professionals, mental health or financial workers, or concerned family or friends.