Community Brain Injury Services Outreach
The Community Brain Injury Services Outreach Program uses a neurobehavioural approach to provide integrated cognitive, emotional, behavioural, physical, and pre-vocational rehabilitation.
The program focuses on:
- Improving independence
- Increasing self-awareness
- Encouraging social integration
- Exploring meaningful and productive activities
The goal is to help participants take part in meaningful life roles in their homes and communities.
Who We Help
This program supports individuals aged 18 and older who:
- Have sustained a moderate-to-severe acquired brain injury
- Can develop awareness of their strengths and limitations
- Can set goals related to increased independence
- Are open to coaching
- Demonstrate potential for greater independence and improved quality of life
Where Participants Live
Participants live in their own homes or apartments. CBIS arranges necessary services to support independence.
What to Expect
Before Admission
A pre-admission assessment determines if the program is suitable and identifies recommendations for achieving goals.
Assessment involves gathering information, meeting with CBIS staff, and possibly completing additional rehabilitation assessments (e.g., via Ontario Health atHome).
Participants, family members, and referring sources help identify program goals and expectations.
A service plan is created to outline each participant’s program.
After Admission
Programs are individualized and based on the participant’s goals and roles.
Activities take place at home, in the community, and at CBIS offices. Typical activities may include:
- Skills for daily living: personal hygiene, meal planning, grocery shopping, meal preparation, budgeting
- Education about brain injury, anger management, assertiveness, and social skills
- Health and fitness education
- Pre-vocational activities
Activities are designed to complement other community services and supports already in place.
Service plans are reviewed regularly with participants. Family and community partners are involved in progress reviews and future planning.
Key Benefits
Specialized care:
A multidisciplinary team providing coordinated, person-centered support.
Skills for life:
Real-world learning that strengthens thinking, emotional control, and daily living skills.
Community focus:
Support at home and in your community, helping everyone see the value of inclusion and participation.
Team culture:
A dynamic, supportive, and team-oriented environment for both clients and staff.
Dignity and inclusion:
Care that respects you, your choices, and your role in the community.
The program team includes Service Coordinators, Community Rehabilitation Counsellors, Rehabilitation Neuropsychologists.
Fees
- Fees apply for participants with private rehabilitation funding.
- For participants without private funding, fees are subsidized by the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.
- Participants are responsible for their own living expenses.
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 Outreach 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
Activities take place at home, in the community, and at CBIS offices.
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
