The Lakeland Centre for FASD (LCFASD) is dedicated to reducing the incidence of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) in our region, province, and beyond. Our mission begins with education—by empowering communities with the right knowledge, we can work together toward a future free of FASD. At LCFASD, we believe that successful treatment and prevention of FASD involve engaging and educating everyone involved in a child’s or mother’s support network.
While many people have heard the message, “It is safest not to drink during pregnancy,” the conversation about FASD can be difficult. FASD is entirely preventable, yet misconceptions and misinformation often cloud the issue. The complexity surrounding alcohol use, unplanned pregnancies, and the social pressures faced by expectant mothers means that prevention requires more than just a public health message. It requires understanding, compassion, and a willingness to engage in open, respectful dialogue.
The reality is that many women who continue to drink during pregnancy may be signaling a need for support. Factors like peer pressure, addiction, mental health issues, or family difficulties can contribute to alcohol use even after a woman learns she is pregnant. Our approach—the FASD Prevention Conversation—focuses on building trusting relationships and encouraging honest discussions. By reducing anxiety and providing practical strategies, we aim to create a safe space for women to talk about alcohol use and pregnancy, empowering them to make informed decisions.
We offer educational sessions and workshops for groups interested in learning how to have these important conversations. If you would like us to speak with your organization, please contact us. Together, we can make a big difference with the right information and a strong support network.
Diagnosis is a crucial first step in creating a tailored support plan for individuals affected by FASD. Those with FASD often face challenges in daily living, and identifying the condition early allows us to develop strategies to help them reach their full potential. The LCFASD diagnostic process is designed to be thorough and supportive, involving a multidisciplinary team to ensure the most accurate assessment.
The diagnostic coordinator collects details about alcohol exposure during pregnancy, which may come from reliable sources like the birth mother, child welfare documentation, or birth records. Once all necessary information is compiled, the file is reviewed and prepared for the next steps.
If you have questions about the referral process or need a referral package, please call us at (780) 594-9905.
Assessments The assessment process varies for children and adults:
After all assessments are completed and reviewed, a clinic date is scheduled at a convenient location for the client and their family. To make the process as accessible as possible, our mobile multidisciplinary teams travel to communities close to clients’ homes, providing assessment and diagnosis for children, youth, and adults.
We understand that FASD can range from mild to severe, and that alcohol use during pregnancy does not always lead to FASD, depending on factors like the timing and amount of alcohol consumed. That’s why we offer confidential, comprehensive diagnostic services for anyone who believes they, their child, or someone they know may have FASD. Our goal is to make it easy for individuals and families to get the answers they need, wherever they are.
At the Lakeland Centre for FASD, we are committed to supporting individuals and families throughout their journey—from education and prevention to diagnosis and treatment. We believe in the power of community and open dialogue to create lasting change. Together, we can work toward a future without FASD.
If you would like to learn more about our programs, request a referral package, or schedule a presentation on FASD prevention, please call us at (780) 594-9905. We are here to support you every step of the way.
