Psychoeducation in Quebec: Past to Present

This article is the first of three written on the topic of Quebec psychoeducation. The object of this article is to explain the historical and theoretical foundations of psychoeducation as a academic discipline in Quebec. Developments within the field will be highlighted to illustrate how it has evolved up to the present day. Psychoeducation originated within live-in rehabilitation centres for troubled youth and was then integrated within the contexts of schools, community centres, psychiatric hospitals and physical rehabilitation centres. Psychoeducators in Quebec are making their mark in providing support and assistance to all age groups, from children to seniors, helping people with adjustment difficulties who struggle to integrate. Today, Quebec psychoeducation can cross borders and cultures, to broaden the perspectives of other specialized higher-education programs at the university level. Sharing the Quebec model, its theoretical expertise and its history of clinical practice will enable others to benefit in improving the social integration and psychosocial adaptation of those in need.