KW Counselling offers free online video and phone sessions

A counselling service in Waterloo region is offering free online video or telephone sessions for people feeling anxious about the COVID-19 pandemic. 

KW Counselling Services initially piloted an online program a year ago for vulnerable youth who wanted to access counselling in a non-traditional way.

Phone and video sessions are different than face-to-face, says Rebecca Webb, the executive director of KW Counselling Services, but the human connection is still very important. 

"You don't have some of the tools that you normally would have face to face," said Webb. She said many have privacy concerns about the online sessions but she assures the sessions are not recorded and in full compliance with privacy legislation.

She said her counsellors are well trained and also keeping in mind how to set up these new services for people who might be at risk of harming themselves or others.

Free sessions available

The video and telephone counselling sessions are free through KW Counselling Services until April 5, thanks to funding provided by the Waterloo-Wellington LHIN and the Counselling Collaborative of Waterloo region — a group of six agencies in the area. 

"It's a difficult time. And yes there are absolutely a host of people who are reaching out and able to help in a lot of different ways," said Webb, adding there's no shame to do so and the resources are there.

"It is difficult and we want to be able to support our community right now."

To book a free video counselling session call 519-743-6333. People experiencing crisis should call 1-888-437-3247.