Embedding evidence-based practice in child and youth mental health in Ontario

Abstract

This article describes recent trends in the province of Ontario (Canada) and beyond that have begun to create a readiness to bring research to practice in children’s mental health. The experience of developing innovative cross-sectoral partnerships in Ontario that facilitate the linkage of research and service is discussed. The Child and Youth Mental Health Information Network is profiled as an emerging collaboration that epitomises such partnerships, and the key knowledge exchange activities of the five partner organisations are described. The article highlights the importance of engaging all levels of the system – clinical, supervisory, management, community, policy and political – in order to create a culture change that truly supports the sharing of information and the process of embedding evidence-based practice in services for children and families. This is a descriptive article that outlines key complementary knowledge exchange activities of each of the partners while highlighting joint initiatives and the value added of the Network.