THUNDER BAY – LIVING – Staying at home doesn’t mean you’re alone. Thunder Bay Counselling and Children’s Centre Thunder Bay are now providing Talk-In phone and video counselling supports in the city. As mental health and addiction services continue to be in high demand, this new option is an adaptation of our traditional Walk-In Counselling Clinic, which now provides quick and easy access to a counsellor, five days a week.
“Our teams wanted to ensure we could connect with those that need support throughout the pandemic, so this is an extension of the walk-in counselling services that we have been offering in the community for over a decade,” says Nancy Chamberlain, Executive Director of Thunder Bay Counselling. “People are experiencing many challenges as we face COVID-19, such as financial concerns, parenting, caregiving and relationship issues, domestic violence and substance use. There is day-to-day sadness, confusion, depression, anxiety and emotional exhaustion arising as a result. Whether it’s the overall uncertainty of working from home, unemployment, fear or being in isolation, this is adding stress and taking a toll on everyone’s mental health. Our counsellors are aware of these issues and are here to help.”
The Talk-In Clinic provided by Thunder Bay Counselling and Children’s Centre Thunder Bay is free and is accessible by calling (807) 700-0090. Single session counselling is offered Monday to Friday, with available times found at tbaycounselling.com and childrenscentre.ca. In-person sessions can be offered on a case by case basis.
“The mental health implications of this unprecedented situation will impact everyone’s wellness differently, and that is okay. Reaching out for help when you need it is one way to ensure that you and your family are supported through this difficult time. Sharing your thoughts and worries with a counsellor can help to alleviate some of your stresses and feelings, and provide you with support, understanding and potential resources,” says Diane Walker, CEO of Children’s Centre Thunder Bay.
When a person calls into the clinic, they provide some quick information and will then be connected to a counsellor for phone or video counselling. For many individuals, this is a safe and comfortable experience, as they are more at ease, getting support from their own home in their time of need.
