What is the Family Counselling Program?
There may come a day, and perhaps that day is today, when you feel like your family is falling apart at the seams. You don’t know what to do or where to turn.
It is important to remember that you are not alone. We have family counsellors that will help you make sense of where you are, how you got here, and how to move on.
A facilitator/counsellor will help you to talk about the difficulties you are experiencing. When you present your side in the presence of the other party, the counsellor will act as an observer and facilitator, making sure that you are safe and comfortable.
If you prefer to meet with the counsellor individually, the counsellor can become your messenger, relating to the other party what is going on for you. The intent of the program is to help people resolve their differences and to re-establish trust. Being constantly in conflict is draining. Resolving conflict can bring a new outlook on life and partnerships.
Do I have to give up anything or to compromise?
Yes and no. You will not have to give up what you want. You will have to give up the way you are interacting, to get what you want. Family Counselling is about getting you and your parents’/kid’s needs met.
What is going to happen on our first visit?
You can call C.O.S. and talk to the intake worker. When an appointment becomes available you’ll have an opportunity to get comfortable with the counsellor and talk in general terms about what is bothering you. There is also a form to be completed which we use to register you as a client of Community Options Society.
Do I have to talk about what I want changed in the same room as my parents/kids?
Not necessarily, sessions can be structured so that the counsellor meets with everyone separately. In addition, things you discuss with the counsellor will not be shared with the other parties unless you give your permission.
Are you keeping track of what I say and do you share it with anyone?
Generally the counsellor will keep any information confidential unless you give permission to share this information with others. There are some exceptions, however. We are required by law to report to the Ministry of Children and Family Development if a child is at risk, or we may be subpoenaed by a court, and we may be asked by the Ministry of Children and Family Development to report on the progress of a client.
Is there cost involved?
No, this service is funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development.
What if I don’t want to go?
Unless counselling has been mandated, for example by a court, it is your choice whether or not you attend sessions. If you want to leave because it is not working for you, you are welcome to do so.
What if I want to see you but my parents/kids don’t want to?
There is still some benefit in setting up an appointment. The counsellor can help you approach this subject with your parents/kids and talk with you about your problems. There is also a lot of information about parenting, problem solving, conflict management and communication skills that he can share with you.
Do I have to be referred to this service by the Ministry?
No, you can call any time and make an appointment to see a counsellor.
What if I don’t like the counsellor?
It is important that you ‘click’ with the counsellor, if you don’t there are also other Youth and Family Counsellors at C.O.S. that might be able to help.
I have a hard time talking to my parents/kid. How can this help me?
It doesn’t. You still have to talk to your parents/kids. In counselling the situation will change so that you can be more confident and assertive in making your point.