Young Adult Substance Use Program (YA-SUP)

Young adulthood is an "in-between" period of transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. That is why other names for people in this age group include Transition Aged Youth or Emerging Adults. It is a unique time for self-discovery, building relationships, and becoming independent. Many young adults also experience lots of uncertainty and change. This can make the transition challenging to navigate. The Young Adult Substance Use Program (YA-SUP) aims to meet these unique needs. We offer 2 separate streams. There is a Young Adult Stream for young adults (17-25) looking to make changes to their substance use. We also offer a Loved Ones stream, for loved ones of young adults with substance use problems.

Who is the program for?

Young adults aged 17-25 who are looking to make changes to their substance use.
Young adults committed to attending group-based treatment.
Young adults not in immediate crisis (*contact COAST in immediate crisis (905) 972-8338

I AM A YOUNG ADULT

I AM A LOVED ONE

RESOURCES

“You define your goals. We are here to meet you where you are at and support you in reaching your goals.”

Your Care Team

We have a multi-disciplinary and collaborative team with expertise in mental health and community support counselling, nursing, addiction psychiatry, and substance use research.

Clinicians

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Marina Kennedy, MSW

I'm Marina, a registered social worker who has been working with young people for nearly 15 years, dedicating the past 6 years to treating addictions and mental health. I'm an avid runner who loves hot summers and engaging children in philosophical discussions; I typically spend my downtime reading non-fiction or playing music.

Sabrina Syan

Hi, my name is Sabrina and I'm a Clinical Psychology Resident and Graduate Student at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I'm passionate about helping youth overcome challenges with mental health and addiction. In my free time I love to try new recipes and read a good book.

Michelle Venantius, MD

Hi, my name is Michelle, and I provide psychiatric consultation to the wonderful team at YA-SUP. When I am not at work, I am spending time with my family, trying new recipes, and finding creative ways to help out at schools.

Emily MacKillop, PhD

Hi, I'm Emily. I've been a registered Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist for 13 years and am dedicated to understanding how I can best help each individual who is struggling with substance use and mental health difficulties. I enjoy spending time with my husband and two kids, and binge watching Netflix.

Kyla King

Hi, I’m Kyla, and I am a Community Support Counsellor with the YA-SUP. In my spare time I enjoy listening to music, live music, practicing yoga and hiking.

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Mareena Mathew, NP

Hi, my name is Mareena, and I am a Nurse Practitioner. I have always worked in mental health and addiction service, and I have a special interest in working with youth. I love music, dance, outdoor activities, and spending time with my dog.

Victoria Stead, PhD (Psychology)

Hi, my name is Victoria. I’m part of the clinical team at YA-SUP and the research team at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I’m particularly passionate about helping those with co-occurring mental health and substance use issues. In my spare time, I enjoy hiking with my dog, trying new restaurants, and exploring new places.

Researchers

Jacinda Burns

Hi, my name is Jacinda and I am a Research Assistant with the YA-SUP. In my free time, I like to hike, try new foods, and listen to podcasts.

Jillian Halladay, RN, MSc

Hi, my name is Jillian, and I am a mental health nurse and researcher. I have helped with the development and evaluation of the YA-SUP. Outside of work, I like to hike, watch Netflix, try to cook, and lift weights.

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Myra Massey

Hi, my name is Myra, and I am a Research Assistant on the Young Adult Substance Use Program. Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, listening to music, and outdoor adventures.

Kiran Punia, MSc

Hi, my name is Kiran, and I am a Research Assistant at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I am excited to be helping out with the YA-SUP program. Outside of work I enjoy Netflix, trying cool new restaurants, and doing different types of workouts.

Saba Khoshroo

Hi, my name is Saba, and I am a Research Assistant at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I am excited to be helping out with the YA-SUP program. Outside of work I enjoy traveling/adventures, watching true crime docuseries and hanging out with friends.

Mackenzie Mawson

Hi, my name is Mackenzie (she/her), I am a Research Assistant with the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I also work full time as a Registered Nurse. I am very passionate about mental health and advocating for a more inclusive health care system. I love going up north and enjoying the beautiful scenery, especially in the fall.

Leadership

Holly Raymond, MSW

Hi, my name is Holly and I am a Director in the Mental Health and Addictions program at St. Joe's. I am very passionate about working with people who have experience with co-existing mental health and substance challenges. In my spare time I like to exercise, watch cooking shows, and spend time with my cat.

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Catherine McCarron, MSW

Hello, my name is Catherine, and I'm both a registered social worker and manager of the Young Adult Substance Use Program. In my free time I enjoy sailing and going on adventures with my niece and nephew.

James MacKillop, PhD

I'm James and I direct the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I'm a psychologist and I'm interested in understanding the causes of substance use challenges and the best ways people can make changes in their lives. Outside of work, my wife and I wrangle two kids and a dog, and I'm a running enthusiast.

One-Page Overview

Loved Ones Education Group

Detailed Program Overview

YA-SUP Pamphlet