About Bridging the Gap 

BTG’s mission: work alongside young adults who experience mental health struggles, to build resilience by strengthening their connections, improving wellness and reducing barriers to success.

Bridging the Gap (BTG) is a community-based program that provides support to 16 – 24 year olds who struggle with mental health concerns (self-identified or diagnosed), and who experience barriers that impact important areas of their life. The individuals we support, often feel isolated and may lack the resources to work toward their goals. Individuals supported by Bridging the Gap receive support for a duration of 18-24 months.

Who this Program Supports

Individuals served by Bridging the Gap:

• Are 16 – 24 years at the time of intake
• Are wanting to work on identified mental health concerns
• Have the ability to identify personal goals and be willing to work to address these
• Are not currently receiving supports through Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) or Children’s Services (CS)

Note: For those who require immediate stabilization or a more intensive intervention, the program will look to explore service options that are more appropriate to their level of need.

Our Approach

Services are delivered through a case management model and are based on the identified needs of the individual.  Supports may include:

• Education around mental health
• Skill development
• Assistance with accessing and participating in community services

By meeting the individual where they are at and customizing each individual’s plan, we are better able to create meaningful change.

One of the primary interventions used at Bridging the Gap is DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) skills training which is provided in both individual and group formats. DBT is a well-researched treatment model that has proven to be beneficial within a variety of populations and therapeutic treatment settings.

DBT focuses on a variety of “change” and “acceptance” strategies and is grounded in mindfulness concepts. DBT skills support increased internal awareness and help individuals assess their personal goals, values and priorities in both the short and long term. These skills can build self-confidence, increase emotional flexibility and resilience, promote healthy relationships, and enhance effective problem solving skills. DBT skills are not only crisis management/survival skills, but are “life skills”.

Committed To Excellence

All staff at Bridging the Gap receive DBT Skills Training through Behavior Tech.

Staff also receive training in Trauma-informed Care.

How to Access the Program 

Bridging the Gap is a self- referral program. Individuals must contact the program directly, via phone, in order to initiate a referral and complete an intake.

Referrals cannot be third-party, although members of the individual’s support network can call for information about the program (eligibility criteria, services, wait times, etc.).

Due to high demand, there typically is a wait time for service.

Program business hours are Monday to Friday 8:30-4:30 pm, except on holidays.

Suite 420, 1509 Centre Street SW, Calgary, Alberta T2G 2E6
The office location is downtown Calgary, near public transportation, and paid parking is available in the surrounding area.  If there are financial barriers, contact the program.

Additional resources and crisis/community/mental services within Calgary

If this is an emergency call 911

• Call Distress Centre Calgary at 403-266-HELP (4357)
• Go to the nearest urgent care center or emergency room

Access Mental Health
https://www.albertahealthservices.ca/findhealth/Service.aspx?id=2381&serviceAtFacilityID=1019446#contentStart

City of Calgary Transit 
City of Calgary Transit

Behavioral Tech
Behavioral Tech, LLC (DBT)

Search additional resources in your community
https://www.ab.211.ca/