Coastal Mountain

Child & Youth Services Ltd.

Our Mission

We believe that it takes a whole community to safeguard the health and wellbeing of our children, young adults, and families.

give children & youth a voice

At the core of our company ethos is our commitment to meet children, young adults, and their families exactly where they are. First, we ensure their needs are met; then we honour the autonomy of children and young adults by providing opportunities for them to have a voice at the table in the decision-making process, so that they can choose the best path for themselves.

Strengths-based approach

We provide a safe, supportive, respectful foundation for children and young adults, where their strengths and talents are nurtured in a culturally diverse, trauma informed environment. We focus on fostering independence, confidence, and a deeply rooted belief in the power of resilience.

Supporting Youth. Strengthening Community. Inspiring Hope.

Welcome to Coastal Mountain Child and Youth Services Ltd., a trusted and CARF-accredited child and youth care agency proudly serving the Cowichan Valley and surrounding communities. With a long-standing reputation for excellence in residential care, we are committed to supporting children and youth through trauma-informed, culturally safe, and strengths-based programs designed to meet a wide range of needs.

Founded by Les Thibedeau, with decades of experience in child welfare and youth care, Coastal Mountain was built on the belief that healing happens through meaningful relationships, safe environments, and a deep respect for each young person’s unique story. Les’s leadership, integrity, and vision continue to guide our agency’s work every day, setting the standard for compassionate, professional, and community-centered care.

We operate three specialized residential programs:

  • A one-to-one intensive support home for youth with complex mental health and behavioral needs

  • A semi-independent living program that prepares youth for adulthood

  • A five-bed group home that offers structure, support, and connection in a shared living environment

All of our programs are rooted in a trauma-informed philosophy that acknowledges the profound impacts of adversity and prioritizes safety, stability, and empowerment. We see each youth through a strengths-based lens—focusing not on what’s wrong, but on what’s strong.

As a proudly local agency, we are deeply connected to the Cowichan Valley and recognize the responsibility we hold as guests on the unceded territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the Quw’utsun (Cowichan) people. Cultural safety is a cornerstone of our work, especially for Indigenous children and youth. We partner with Indigenous organizations to ensure that cultural identity, ceremony, language, and land-based practices are meaningfully integrated into care.

Whether stabilizing a young person in crisis or walking beside them on their path to independence, our dedicated team of child and youth care professionals shows up with purpose, compassion, and commitment. Through consistent training, mentorship, and a shared belief in the power of human connection, we create environments where youth can heal, grow, and reclaim their potential.