At the Knowledge Institute, we are dedicated to strengthening Ontario’s mental health and addictions services for children, young people and their families. 

We accelerate system change, mobilize evidence and strengthen knowledge and skills by working alongside mental health and addictions agencies across the province. Our work is further guided by the insights of our councils, ensuring that we remain grounded in the voices and needs of those we serve.

Our story

We opened our doors in 2004 as the Ontario Centre of Excellence for Child and Youth Mental Health. Inspired by the vision of our founders, Simon Davidson and Ian Manion, our goal was to coordinate and strengthen mental health services for Ontario’s children and young people, bringing a unified purpose to the province. We took on a new identity as the Knowledge Institute on Child and Youth Mental Health and Addictions in 2021 to reflect our evolving role in the sector and our growing work in complex mental health needs, including the overlap between mental health and substance use health.

Through each phase of our journey, we’ve built strong partnerships and adapted to the sector’s needs while staying true to our founding purpose. Looking ahead, we remain focused on Ontario’s children and young people, strengthening community supports and creating a healthier, more resilient Ontario for all.

The Knowledge Institute is funded by the Province of Ontario

Strategic Plan

Our 2024–27 strategic plan sets the direction for our next phase of work. It was developed in consultation with nearly 250 partners, including our advisory councils and staff and it reflects the evolving needs of Ontario’s child and youth mental health and addictions sector.

The plan guides how we focus our efforts, measure progress and strengthen care across the province.

Read more about our strategic plan