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?
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Young adults aged 17-25 who are looking to make changes to their substance use.
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Young adults committed to attending group-based treatment.
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Young adults not in immediate crisis *contact COAST in immediate crisis (905) 972-8338
“You define your goals. We are here to meet you where you are at and support you in reaching your goals.”
Check out our newest study and participation opportunity!
For more information email:
dart@stjoes.ca
YA-SUP Research
YA-SUP with the support of the Peter Boris Centre for Addiction Research (PBCAR) engages in research projects examining young adult substance use, mental health, and concurrent disorders.
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
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.
Chelsey Fedchenko, CSC, Peer Specialist
Hi, my name is Chelsey. I am part of the clinical team at YA-SUP. I seek to empower young adults struggling with mental health and substance use issues and provide them with the support needed to achieve balance and wellbeing in their everyday lives. In my spare time I enjoy gardening, swimming, and spending time with my two-year-old daughter.
Mike Paterson, CCSW, AAC
Greetings and salutations! My name is Mike and I am a community support counsellor with the YA-SUP team. My experience in addictions and mental health is rooted in community supports with a peer approach. Outside of work I am a work out enthusiast and I look forward to working with you in your recovery journey.
Mareena Mathew, NP
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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.
Researchers
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.
Julianne Devries
Hi, my name is Jules and I am a research assistant at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. I have been a part of YASUP for over a year now! Outside of work I enjoy travelling, spending time with family/friends and watching reality TV!
Emily Mote
Hi, my name is Emily and I am a Research Assistant at the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research. In my spare time, I enjoy reading, baking, and going for walks with my dogs.
Liah Rahman
Hi, my name is Liah. I’m a research coordinator with the Peter Boris Centre for Addictions Research and Concurrent Disorders Program. Outside of work I enjoy reading, spending time outside, paying with my cat, discovering new music, and cooking.
Leadership
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.
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.
Youth Services in Hamilton
Loved Ones Education Group
Detailed Program Overview
YA-SUP Pamphlets
COAST 24-HOUR CRISIS LINE (905-972-8338)