Community Brain Injury Services – Group Services Program
Community Brain Injury Services Group Services program provides opportunities for adults living with acquired brain injury to develop social skills, build meaningful connections, and engage in community life.
Groups also focus on:
- Building practical skills
- Learning about ABI strategies
- Exploring hobbies and personal interests
- Improving health and wellness
- Developing healthy coping strategies
- Connecting with peers
Who We Help
This program supports adults (18+) who:
- Have experienced a moderate to severe acquired brain injury
- Want to develop social skills and meaningful community connections
- Are able to participate safely in group activities, with or without support
What to Expect
Pre-Admission Assessment
A pre-admission assessment determines eligibility.
Group Activities
- Groups take place at Community Brain Injury Services (CBIS) offices or community locations, depending on the activity.
- Most groups are facilitated by Community Rehabilitation Counsellors, with consultation from the CBIS Neuropsychologist. Some specialized groups are co-facilitated with the Neuropsychologist.
- Transportation is not provided, but staff can help clients access other options.
- Participants requiring 1:1 assistance (mobility or attendant care) must be accompanied by a support person.
Program Goals
- Improve social skills and self-confidence
- Foster connections with peers who share similar experiences
- Explore hobbies, life skills, and healthy coping strategies
- Build practical skills to support independence and community participation
Key Benefits
- Supportive environment to learn and practice social skills
- Peer connections that reduce isolation and increase confidence
- Opportunities to explore hobbies, recreation, and meaningful activities
- Professional guidance from experienced CBIS staff and Neuropsychologist
- Safe space to develop coping strategies and personal skills
Fees
- Services are subsidized by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
- Where third-party funding is available (e.g., motor vehicle insurance, WSIB), CBIS recovers costs.
- If third-party funding is not available, minimal fees may be applied to cover costs (e.g., cooking ingredients, admission fees for activities).
- Costs are kept as low as possible to ensure participation is not a barrier.
For more information on fees, please call CBIS: 613-547-6969
How to Access the Service
For Patients and Care Partners:
Speak with your healthcare provider about a referral to our program.
For Referring Partners
Patients can be referred using the Community Brain Injury Services Referral Form: https://providencecare.ca/community-services/community-brain-injury-services/
Eligibility criteria
The Assisted Living program serves adults with acquired brain injuries, aged 18–64 for non-traumatic injuries (no upper age limit for traumatic injuries), who:
- Are residents of Ontario. Those living outside Southeast Ontario may receive office-based services.
- Live in the community or have the potential to do so.
- Have a documented history of acquired brain injury, including injury caused by:
- Trauma (motor vehicle crash, assault, falls, etc.)
- Hypoxia/anoxia (confirmed via imaging, EEG, prolonged coma, or motor disturbances)
- Infection
- Tumour (see “other progressive neurological disorders”)
- Aneurysm
- Stroke
- Note: Eligibility for service depends on client needs/goals and significant cognitive changes.
Other requirements:
- Neurologically stable and physically/medically able to participate regularly in CBIS services
- Not currently experiencing debilitating addiction, delirium, or psychosis (CBIS is not an acute mental health or addiction service)
- Have personal roles and goals for increased independence in daily living and community participation
- Already receiving, or willing to be referred for, other appropriate services if psychiatric or substance abuse issues are identified
- Likely to benefit from specialized rehabilitation services and support for independent living skills
For questions about referrals or to confirm eligibility, call 613-547-6969.
If you live in the Kingston area, dial extension: 37189
If you live in the Belleville area, dial extension: 37140
If you live in the Brockville area, dial extension: 37163
Appointment & Discharge Information
What to Expect
The care team will meet with you for an initial assessment.
Group activities take place at CBIS offices or community locations. Transportation is not provided, but staff can help clients access other options.
Discharge
Your care team will help plan next steps for independence:
- Clear instructions about care and medications
- Understanding follow-up appointments and what to bring
- Contact information for questions after discharge
- Connections to community supports for ongoing success
For more information, please speak to a member of your care team.
FAQs
How did Community Brain Injury Services begin?
Community Brain Injury Services (CBIS) was established in 1987 and is funded by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
The program began as a Transitional Living Centre near Kingston General Hospital, offering short-term, residential support for people recovering from brain injuries. In 1996, sponsorship moved to what is now Providence Care Hospital.
Over the years, CBIS has evolved from a residential program to an outreach model that provides rehabilitation and long-term support in people’s homes, communities, and at offices in Kingston, Belleville, and Brockville.
What is the philosophy of care at CBIS?
CBIS’s approach to care has remained consistent since 1987. The program believes:
- Clients and families are partners; their goals are the focus.
- Learning by experience in real-life settings is key.
- Independence and participation in the community are essential.
- Services are most effective when delivered where people live — at home and in their communities.
The program also helps communities recognize their role in supporting people with brain injuries to fully participate in community life.
Additional Resources
Community Brain Injury Psychology Resources
Contact Information
Kingston – LaSalle Mews Building
303 Bagot Street, Suite 401
Kingston, ON K7K 5W7
613-547-6969
Belleville – The Quinte Mall
100 Bell Boulevard, Suite 335
Belleville, ON K8P 4Y7
613-968-8888
Brockville
23 Abbott St
Brockville, ON K6V 4A5
613-342-1613
Hours of Operation
Our facilities operate 24/7, but building access and available services vary by location and time of day. Some entrances may be locked, and ID badge or intercom access may be required.
Clinic and outpatient service hours also differ. Please contact your specific care area or clinic for details.
Program Secretary
613-547-6969
Program Manager
613-544-4900, ext. 37128
Regional Director
613-544-4900, ext. 34101
Vice President, Mental Health and Community Teams
613-544-4900, ext. 51219
