Community Treatment Order
The Community Treatment Order (CTO) Program supports individuals living with serious mental illness who have been hospitalized multiple times and need a structured plan to stay well in the community. A CTO is a legal order under Ontario’s Mental Health Act that helps individuals receive regular treatment and support outside of the hospital.
Who We Help
This program supports individuals aged 18 and older who:
- Have a diagnosis of a serious mental illness
- Have been hospitalized for psychiatric care multiple times
- Have a history of becoming unwell after leaving hospital
- Respond well to inpatient treatment but stop follow-up care after discharge
CTO’s are designed for people who need coordinated, ongoing support to stay healthy and reduce future hospital stays.
What to Expect
This outpatient program provides:
Coordinate mental health services and supports across different care providers & agencies
Work with your physician or psychiatrist to monitor and adjust care
Support your goals for recovery and independence
Family and care partner involvement:
Encouragement for care partners to participate in your care.
Key Benefits
Specialized care:
Access to a multidisciplinary team providing coordinated, person-centered care.
Care in the community with consistent support, leading to a reduction of hospital visits or crisis situations
Better coordination between hospital and community services
Ongoing care that supports long-term stability and well-being
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 South Eastern Ontario Addictions & Mental Health Service Access referral form.
Appointment & Discharge Information
Appointment Information
The care team will meet you in your community setting.
Discharge
When you are discharged from the program, there are many things to keep in mind. When you are being discharged:
- Ask for explanations and written instructions about your care and your medications.
- Make sure you and/or your care partner understand the instructions, including what medications to take, how to take them, and when to take them.
- Ask and be informed of appointments that have to be made when you are discharged, how to contact the providers, and to understand the reason for each appointment and what information you will need to bring with you.
- Know who you should call if you have questions after discharge – write down contact names and phone numbers or have a member of the care team provide this information to you in writing.
For more information, please speak to a member of your care team.
Contact Information
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
613-540-6165
Regional Director
613-540-6165, ext. 34101
Vice President, Mental Health and Community Teams
613-544-4900, ext. 51219
