Our services & programs
How can we help?
Combining our child-centric, family-focused approach with world-class innovation, CDI services are designed to support the unique needs and well-being of children, youth, families and communities.

Child & Youth Mental Health Services
Specialized mental health services for children and youth and their families in 3 specialty areas

Early Years & Child Care Services
Helping children succeed through active exploration, inquiry and play

Gender-Based Violence Services
CDI offers group counselling services, parenting support, shelter, abuse and trauma services, food assistance, and more to support children, youth and mothers in their healing journey.

Impact
Even as the need for mental health services grow, CDI continues to be the steadfast support for our communities and invests in expanding our services to meet the needs of our families and communities.
Children and youth need your support

“Vandalism, starting fires, getting in fights — I didn’t really care what I was doing. SNAP showed me that I have a choice in the way I act.“
– Evan, SNAP® Graduate
CDI’s evidence-informed early intervention programs provide the critical support necessary to give youth like Evan a chance before they head down a more dangerous path.
About Us
What we do

Fostering positive transformations in mental health for over a century, CDI is a world-class leader trusted in helping children, youth and families through a wide range of evidence-informed services to build lasting change.
Press Room and News
Latest News
FAQ
What programs and services does CDI offer?
Child Development Institute (CDI) offers a range of programs and services to meet the needs of children, youth and families, including:
Child & Youth Mental Health Services:
- Social, Emotional and Behavioural Counselling Services
- Learning Disabilities and Mental Health (LDMH) Counselling Services
- Therapeutic Recreation Programs
Gender-Based Violence Services:
- Mothers in Mind® (MIM)
- Here to Help
- Shelters Program
- School Liaison Program
- Taste of Home
- Transitional and Housing Support Program (THSP)
Early Years & Child Care Services:
- Four licensed Early Learning Centres (ELC)
- Parkdale-High Park EarlyON Child and Family Centre
- Child Care Consultation Services
How do I register or make a referral for CDI’s programs and/or services?
To register or make a referral, please reach out to our team at info@childdevelop.ca or call our intake line at (416) 603-1827. Our Intake team will ask questions to better understand your situation and how CDI’s programs/services can address your needs.
Does CDI offer translation and/or interpretation services?
Yes, CDI works with community partners to offer services and supports in a variety of languages. For more information, please reach out to info@childdevelop.ca.
Is there a long wait time for service?
There is no waiting period for many of CDI’s services, however our wait times vary by program and service. Please contact our intake team at (416) 603-1827 to inquire about service availability. If necessary, our team will help you join our waitlist and explore alternative programs in the interim.
Please note: CDI’s gender-based violence services do not have a waitlist.
Where does CDI offer its programs and services?
CDI offers our Child & Youth Mental Health, Gender-Based Violence, and Early Years & Child Care services across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). This includes at our various service centres, as well as in community locations, ensuring that our services are accessible for all.
Through licensed affiliate sites, CDI’s Mothers in Mind® (MIM) program is delivered in communities across Ontario, and our SNAP® (Stop Now and Plan) program continues to expand across Canada, and internationally.
Are CDI’s programs and services offered free of charge?
Most of CDI’s services are available for families free of charge. While some of our programs and our Early Learning and Child Care Centres have associated fees, CDI receives partial funding from the Government of Ontario, City of Toronto and United Way Greater Toronto to help subsidize services for families who may need assistance.
Please contact our intake team at info@childdevelop.ca or (416) 603-1827 for more information.