Assessment and diagnostic services may or may not lead to a confirmed diagnosis of FASD. The process of diagnosis for FASD includes assessment in 10 different brain domains as outlined in the Diagnostic Guidelines.  The diagnostic process also includes a collection of current and historical information regarding the individual.

Diagnostic services are completed by a multi-disciplinary team whose members include a physician/pediatrician, psychologist, speech language pathologist and other professionals, depending on the age of the individual.

An FASD diagnosis may not be immediately available, in cases where:

  • a child is too young to be diagnosed
  • there is not enough existing information
  • prenatal alcohol exposure is not presently confirmed

Lethbridge Family Services

  • Program Manager:
    Lynette Taal

    • Email: ltaal@lfsfamily.ca
    • Phone: 403-320-9119
    • Fax: 403-327-5726
  • Pediatric Intake Coordinator:
    Fayla Vedres

    • Email: fvedres@lfsfamily.ca
    • Phone: 403-320-9119
    • Fax: 403-327-5726
  • Pediatric Follow-up Coordinator:
    Krystal Gatz

    • Email: kgatz@lfsfamily.ca
    • Phone: 403-320-9119
    • Cell: 403-331-3854
    • Fax: 403-327-5726
  • Adult Intake/Follow-up Coordinator:
    Leah Leinweber

    • Email: lleinweber@lfsfamily.ca
    • Phone: 403-320-9119
    • Cell: 403-7151655
    • Fax: 403-327-5726
  • Website: www.lfsfamily.ca

    Address: 1107 – 2 Ave A North, Lethbridge, AB  T1H0E6

Program Information

Individuals referred to the clinic are eligible for assessment by a multi-disciplinary team (MDT), once pre-natal alcohol exposure has been confirmed. The clinic abides by the 2015 Revised Canadian Guidelines for standardized diagnosis.  We utilize the expertise of pediatricians/physicians, psychologists, speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and other professionals that are involved in the individual’s life. After a multitude of comprehensive assessments are completed, the MDT utilizes the guidelines to determine if a diagnosis of FASD is appropriate. Recommendations, including community referrals, are developed for each individual. Individuals receiving an FASD diagnosis are provided follow-up supports through the clinic.

Am I eligible?
Individuals aged 9+ that reside in Southwestern Alberta
Geographical borders are defined as Bow Island west to the British Columbia border and Vauxhall south to the U.S. border

Where is the service provided?
The clinic is located in Lethbridge

How much will it cost?
There is no direct cost to individuals

How do I access this program?
Referral forms are available on-line and can be:
Mailed: 1107 – 2 A Ave North, Lethbridge AB T1H 0E6
Faxed: 403-327-5726
Telephone: 403-320-9119

Funding for this program provided by