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Research & Innovation

At Cappelli & Associates, research is more than background — it shapes the care we deliver every day. Under the leadership of Dr. Mario Cappelli, our team integrates evidence-based innovations into practice, ensuring that children, teens, and young adults receive care that is both compassionate and scientifically grounded.

Expert Psychological Care for Children

HEADS-ED: A Canadian Innovation

One of Dr. Cappelli’s most influential contributions is the co-development of the HEADS-ED screening tools, designed to quickly and reliably assess mental health concerns in children and youth.

  • HEADS-ED is now widely used in emergency departments and community settings across Canada.
  • HEADS-ED Under 6 was recently validated as a reliable tool for preschool-aged children, supporting earlier detection and intervention.

These tools ensure that young people in crisis are identified quickly and directed to the right supports.

Current Research Areas

Emergency Department Mental Health Care

Research led by Dr. Cappelli has improved how youth in crisis are assessed and supported in emergency departments. A multi-site cohort study found that 84.3% of young patients received follow-up care within one month of their ED visit.

Evaluating mental health service use during and after ED visits (CHEO Research)

HEADS-ED Under 6 — Early Identification

The HEADS-ED Under 6 tool provides clinicians with a structured, validated way to screen preschool-aged children. In one study, 94.5% of children were successfully screened at intake, demonstrating strong feasibility.

Validation study – PubMed Publication – Paediatrics & Child Health Journal

Transitions in Care Pathways

Dr. Cappelli is part of research on structured clinical pathways that improve follow-up after emergency visits, helping youth move smoothly from hospital-based care to outpatient and community supports.

Emergency department clinical pathways study – BMC Health Services Research

Integration Across Care Systems

Another focus is on bridging gaps between primary care, hospitals, and community mental health services, piloting referral pathways that ensure timely access to support for families.

CHEO Research Profile – Dr. Mario Cappelli

Why Research Matters for Families

Families who work with Cappelli & Associates benefit directly from this work:

    • Confidence that assessments and therapy are informed by current research
    • Access to tools and strategies that are validated and effective
    • Services that continually evolve alongside the latest evidence