Free Virtual CBT Program for New and Expecting Fathers: Pilot Study
Ottawa Public Health’s Healthy Growth and Development Program, in collaboration with McMaster University, is offering a free, online, Mental Health for Fathers - Parenting in Ottawa nine-week, group-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program for fathers, starting in October 2025
This program is being offered as part of a research study (Randomized Controlled Trial) to determine whether a group cognitive behavioural therapy intervention is helpful for fathers and fathers-to-be who have been feeling one or more of the following: depressed, sad, anxious, worried, angry or overwhelmed.
Half of the participants will receive the CBT intervention in addition to their regular healthcare, and the other half will continue to receive healthcare and other support from their usual providers.
During the nine-week series, participants meet in a virtual group setting with a public health nurse and a psychiatrist to learn skills to help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety by changing thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. These groups will have a maximum of 12 participants. OHIP is not required.
Your patient may be eligible if they are:
- 18 years or older;
- Living in Ontario;
- A father who is expecting a child or has a baby less than 18 months old;
- Able to read and communicate in English;
- Feeling one or more of the following: depressed, sad, anxious, worried, angry or overwhelmed.
Registration is now open. Patients are encouraged to self-refer to the program as the referral website explains the study and allows for patient consent. Additional information about paternal mental health can be found on Mental Health for Fathers - Parenting in Ottawa.
This study has been reviewed by the Hamilton Integrated Research Ethics Board under Project # 19097.
Physician & NP Resources
- Information about the Cognitive Behavioural Therapy Program (CBT) for fathers as well as additional supports is program can be found on the Mental Health for Fathers - Parenting in Ottawa.
Patient Resources
- Patients are encouraged to self-refer to the free, online, nine-week, group-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) program for Fathers .
- Additional information about paternal mental health can be found on Mental Health for Fathers - Parenting in Ottawa.
Geneviève Mosher RN BScN
Nursing Project Officer
Ottawa Public Health
Louise Gilbert
Program Manager HGD