Neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) are experienced by 7- 14% of Canadian children, with rates on the rise. Unfortunately, waitlists for assessment and treatment are extremely long – often resulting in over 2 years from initial concern to accessing services. Early intervention and parent support are essential for healthy child development and family well-being.

To address this gap, we will test the implementation and impact of the BEAM (Building Emotional Awareness and Mental Wellness) program as an adaptable app-based solution designed to reduce family stress and support mental health. BEAM delivers evidence-based support through education, peer coaching, symptom tracking, a community support forum, and systems navigation.

We are partnering with the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba and three provincial healthcare agencies in Manitoba to deliver BEAM to 100 families on waitlists, helping them access support while navigating the complex pathways to formal diagnostic and intervention services. Our goal is to assess BEAM’s effectiveness and prepare for its broader implementation across Canada, ultimately improving family mental health, quality of life, and child development outcomes for families of children with NDDs nationwide.

 

Award

  • Kids Brain Health Network: $200,000

 

Partners

  • Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba
  • Department of Clinical Health Psychology, University of Manitoba
  • Manitoba Adolescent Treatment Centre
  • Rehab Centre for Children and Specialized Services for Children and Youth

 

Team

  • Principal Investigator: Dr. Leslie Roos
  • Co-Principal Investigator: Dr. Mandy Archibald
  • Co-Principal Investigator: Dr. Jo Ann Unger
  • Co-Principal Investigator: Dr. Lianne Tomfohr-Madsen
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Tracie Afifi
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Ryan Giuliano
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Laurence Katz
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Ashley Stewart-Tufescu
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Sarah MacEachern
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Anna MacKinnon
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Emily Cameron
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Sarah Horn
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Tasmia Hai
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Kylee Clayton
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Darcy Cantin
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Ana Hanlon-Dearman
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Kristene Cheung
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Andrew Hall
  • Co-Investigator: Dr. Cara Katz
  • Parent Partner: Ashley Pharazyn
  • Parent Partner: Leah Wishanski