SIGN's Rapid Access Counselling service is being expanded this fall to provide support and counselling specifically for children, youth and their caregivers.
SIGN pioneered rapid access counselling for adults, first as a walk-in clinic, and then adding telephone and online counselling not only with SIGN counsellors, but with other counsellors across the province to ensure quick access when needed. That was accompanied by an online booking system where those seeking help can make contact with a counsellor when needed.
That province-wide program is delivered through Family Service Saskatchewan, a partnership of member agencies in communities across Saskatchewan including SIGN. It is funded by the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
Rapid Access Counselling was expanded this summer to include a program specifically for children, youth and their caregivers. It was introduced in June in Estevan, Weyburn, Oxbow, Carlyle, Regina and Saskatoon, and later this month will be available in Yorkton and area as part of SIGN's programs.
It provides support and guidance for children and youth ages 6 to 17, as well as caregivers, through counselling services tailored to their specific needs. It will connect children, youth, and caregivers with qualified and licensed counselling professionals promptly and without any complicated screening or eligibility procedures.
SIGN and its partner agencies are committed to making child and youth mental health services more accessible and supporting the well-being of families through trauma-informed approaches. This program aims to simplify the process for families to seek care, focusing on prevention, early intervention, and crisis support by reducing wait times, improving system navigation, and introducing online appointment booking.
Counselling can help families navigate a variety of challenges such as behavioural concerns, family conflicts, trauma, grief, anxiety and depression. Our goal is to provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space for children, youth and their caregivers or parents to express themselves, explore their feelings, and work towards positive change.
As with Rapid Access Counselling for adults, sessions can be booked through www.counsellingconnectsask.ca, or in Yorkton and area those needing assistance may call 306-782-1440 to make an appointment.
SIGN Rapid Access Counselling will continue to provide counselling for adults as well, offering quick access to brief mental health services for individuals, couples and families. We can help with concerns such as anxiety, depression, addictions, suicidal ideation, stress, relationship conflict, separation and divorce, domestic violence and parenting. Our services are prioritized for Saskatchewan residents who do not have access to workplace benefits, who live on a fixed or low income, and who would otherwise most often experience long waits for publicly funded services.
Services are provided by professionals in the counselling and mental health field and who are licensed with a professional regulatory body to provide this service. Counselling is provided in-person, online through a video connection, or by phone.
