CNWL Psychologist Presents Youth Mental Health Project in Vancouver

In March 2025, the International Association of Youth Mental Health (IAYMH) hosted the seventh ‘Youth Mental Health International Conference’ in Vancouver, Canada. The conference focused on developing a global framework for integrated care in youth mental health. Mary McNicholas, a Consultant Psychologist from the Harrow Community Mental Health Hub (CMHH), represented Central and North West London NHS Foundation Trust (CNWL) by presenting her innovative quality improvement project.

Mary’s project, titled ‘Bitesize Skills – Building the Road Ahead,’ aimed to improve access to mental health services for individuals aged 18 to 24 at the CMHH. The initiative introduced an eight-week intervention program based on guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care (NICE) and elements of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT). This project was the sole frontline intervention selected for presentation at the conference, underscoring its significance and the collaborative efforts within the CMHH.

The intervention was designed to address barriers to access by providing structured support through an evidence-based framework. Mary’s approach fostered collaboration among various professionals, including psychologists, family therapists, occupational therapists, pharmacists, and employment specialists. This teamwork enhanced the treatment process, creating a more comprehensive support system for young adults.

What set Mary’s project apart was not only the intervention’s timeframe but also its collaborative nature, which involved partnerships with third-sector organizations. By integrating diverse expertise, the project aimed to meet the complex needs of youth seeking mental health support. Feedback from participants indicated that the structured approach helped them develop practical skills to manage their mental health more effectively.

Mary’s hard work and commitment to improving youth mental health services were recognized at the conference, where her presentation sparked interest among attendees. This recognition highlights the importance of innovative approaches and teamwork in addressing mental health challenges faced by young people today.