About the Manitoba FASD Network

We’re Here to Help You and Support You

The Manitoba FASD Network established in 2009, is a province wide integrated diagnostic and short term follow-up service with the goal of providing FASD assessment, support and education closer to home.

FASD Diagnostic Coordinators are located in five regions in Manitoba to support families throughout the assessment process and facilitate local clinics in their regions.

The coordinators work in partnership with the FASD offices in Winnipeg which provides leadership and training for the Network.

The Network is overseen by a steering committee comprised of representatives of the Manitoba Regional Health Authorities, the Norway House Cree Nation, the Government of Manitoba and the Manitoba FASD Centre which is part of the Rehab Centre for Children located at SSCY Centre (Winnipeg).

What is FASD?

FASD stands for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. It is a lifelong disability that affects the brain and body of people who had been prenatally exposed to alcohol. Every person with FASD has unique strengths and challenges, and needs special supports to help them succeed in their daily lives.

For more information and resources, visit canfasd.ca. For further specific information on the Canadian Diagnostic Guidelines (2016) visit: canfasd.ca/guidelines.

Questions?
The Manitoba FASD Diagnostic Coordinator in your region is available to answer any questions you may have about your child’s referral and assessment.

Our Friendly and Experienced Assessment Team

Our professionals work together to provide a caring, detailed assessment and follow-up recommendations for your child. During the assessment process, your child or teenager will be seen by one or several of our team members.

FASD Coordinator & Social Worker

Often your first point of contact is the FASD coordinator or social worker who will discuss the referral with you and assist you with completing forms. The social worker is available to provide support throughout the assessment process.

Speech-Language Pathologist

This specialist will assess your child’s speech, language and hearing skills through various activities and tests.

The Geneticist

The geneticist will complete a physical examination of your child. A picture may be taken of your child’s face for a computer measurement. The geneticist will ask you questions about your child’s and family’s health.

Occupational Therapist

This therapist will assess coordination, motor skills and play skills to determine how your child reacts to his or her environment and manages self-care activities.

Psychologist

The psychologist assesses your child’s functioning abilities such as academic achievement, reasoning, concentration, memory, behaviour, and life skills. This assessment includes interviews, activities with the child, and questionnaires with the family.

Developmental Paediatrician

The developmental paediatrician determines developmental and problem-solving skills, and reviews all background information and reports from school and community. They make the final medical diagnosis in consultation with the rest of the assessment team.

Regional FASD Diagnostic Locations & Coordinators

FASD Diagnostic Coordinators are Responsible for:
  • Completing initial screening for eligibility after receiving the referral
  • Assisting families/caregivers with completing required forms
  • Providing support and education to families/caregivers while on the wait list
  • Coordinating regional clinics
  • Follow-up education, support and planning after diagnosis
  • Hosting and facilitating “Building Circles of Support”: telehealth FASD education series
  • Providing FASD education and presentations to families, professionals and the community
Clinics are held regularly in the following regions:
  • Winnipeg RHA – Manitoba FASD Centre in Winnipeg
  • Interlake-Eastern RHA – Selkirk, Beausejour
  • Northern Health Region – Thompson General Hospital, The Pas, Norway House Cree Nation
  • Prairie Mountain Health – Brandon, Dauphin, Swan River
  • Southern Health/Santé Sud – Portage la Prairie, Steinbach

For details about the clinics in the region nearest you, please contact us.

How to Contact Your Regional Diagnostic Coordinator

You may request an FASD assessment by contacting the FASD Diagnostic Coordinator in your region, as listed below. Self-referral forms can be downloaded here.

Criteria for Assessment:
  • Reliable, confirmed prenatal alcohol exposure
  • Developmental, learning, and/or behavioural concerns
  • Consent of the child’s legal guardian

Contact us now!