Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Services

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Diagnostic Clinic

The Northwestern Ontario FASD Diagnostic Clinic, supported by FIREFLY, is an Interdisciplinary team that includes a Clinic Coordinator, Speech-Language Pathologist, Occupational Therapist, Psychometrist, Psychologist, Physician, FASD Worker and a Bi-Cultural Clinician.

Our goal is to enhance quality of life of the children, youth, adults and families of Northwestern Ontario through diagnostic assessment and facilitation of services.

The FASD Diagnostic clinic, supported by FIREFLY, is a collaborative project between 11 different organizations: Giishkaandago’Ikwe Health Services, Creighton Youth Services, FIREFLY, Kenora Association for Community Living, Kenora Chiefs Advisory, Lake of the Woods District Hospital Community Programs, Meno Ya Win Health Care, Rainy River District School Board, Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, Waasegiizhig Nanaandawe’Iyewigamig.

Resources

What we do

Provide assessment and diagnostic services for children/youth/adults residing in the Kenora and Rainy River districts including Far North Areas.

Provide pre and post clinic support through the FASD worker position.

Provide referrals to community service providers.

Provide recommendations for caregivers and educators.

Provide community networking.

Provide training and consultation for para-professionals and professionals, including educators, social service providers and those working in the legal professions.

Eligibility & Referrals

Children/youth/adults living in the Kenora, Rainy River, Sioux Lookout and Far North Areas with suspected Prenatal Alcohol Exposure.

Head to our Get Services page for ways to refer.

Health professionals, educators, families and clients can submit a referral. It is recommended the referring party speak directly to the client/parent/guardian to discuss the referral and receive verbal consent to initiate the referral.

Individuals over the age of 6 for whom there has been confirmed Prenatal Alcohol Exposure will be assessed by the Interdisciplinary team.

Individuals who have a confirmed diagnosis of FASD or who have been prenatally exposed to alcohol are eligible for support through the services of the FASD worker.

FIREFLY FASD Worker

The FASD Worker at FIREFLY supports children and youth who have received, or are suspected of having, an FASD Diagnosis. They provide guidance, resources, and hands-on strategies to help individuals reach their full potential.

Key Responsibilities:

Personalized Support: Work with families to understand each person’s unique strengths and challenges.
Education & Advocacy: Help parents, caregivers, and schools better understand FASD and how to support individuals effectively.
Community Connections: Link families to local services, therapy options, and support programs.
Family Guidance: Offer practical advice and emotional support to help caregivers navigate life with FASD.
Strength-Based Approach: Focus on abilities rather than limitations to build confidence and independence.

The FASD Worker plays a crucial role in ensuring that anyone diagnosed with FASD has the support they need to lead happy, fulfilling lives.

About FIREFLY

Programs and Services

Client and Caregiver Information