What is individual counselling?

Each client of the DSYTC is assigned a primary counsellor with whom individual counselling occurs.  Individual counselling sessions allows the client to focus in depth on his/her particular needs, strengths and strategize ways to reach their goals.  Individual counselling sessions generally occur once a week, and last 45-60 minutes (although the client may meet more or less frequently for longer and/or shorter periods of time).  Clients will receive individual counselling along with any of the group programs offered.

 What is group counselling?

Each DSYTC group has a unique purpose, however all groups provide the youth with the opportunity to talk with other young people in a safe, drug free environment.  During the group experience, the clients will learn more about their own behavior and ways of thinking.  They will develop new social skills such as how to give and receive support and constructive feedback.  

 Is counselling confidential?

Absolutely!  We cannot and will not release any details about the client (not even the youths’ name) or what has been disclosed, unless we have permission to do so.  We do know, however, in order to maximize the chances of being successful in the treatment process, it is important for us to consult, to varying degrees, with others in the clients’ life.  As such, we will encourage the client to provide us consent so that we can communicate with certain people in their life.  It is important to remember that there are limits to confidential counselling. That is, if the client is deemed a risk to themselves or others, a court order is presented and/or there is concern a child under 16 is being abused/neglected, we have a legal duty to report such disclosures.  Lastly, all participants are required to respect the privacy of their fellow clients by not talking about them outside the Centre.

 Is drug use the only issue that can discussed during counselling sessions?

No way!  Although we are a substance abuse agency and drug use is often related to many of the problems the client may be dealing with, they need not restrict themselves to only talking about their substance abuse use.  Counsellors are prepared to hear about any and all aspects of the youths’ life that they want to share.  e.g., if housing is an issue, it can be discussed with the counsellor and he/she will be able to assist in finding appropriate accommodations.  Drug use will be an on-going topic of discussion but it need not be the only topic.

 Can I smoke cigarettes while at the DSYTC

As of July 1 2009, the DSYTC will be a smoke-free work environment.  No smoking on DSYTC property will be permitted at any time.

 Who is the staff at the DSYTC?

Administrative and clinical staff is one big team at the DSYTC and everyone works together to help the client and family members achieve their goals.  Staff come from various backgrounds and possess a great deal of expertise.  Their expertise is developed through extensive academic training, on-going professional development and work experience. 

 DID YOU KNOW!

• Over 18,000 Ottawa youth are considered at high risk of drug and alcohol abuse
• 283,000 Ontario students’ grades 9-12 reported using an illicit drug in the past year
• Youth who are involved with substance use come from both affluent and struggling neighborhoods
• The average age of first use of cannabis is 13.7 years
• It is estimated that alcohol or drug use is involved in more that 60% of all teen suicides
• Youth who abuse drugs and alcohol are much more likely to be in conflict with the law
• Youth who abuse drugs are at increased risk of physical and/or sexual assault, unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s)
• Street drugs do not come with instructions and are often not sold as advertised – thus increasing the risk of overdose
• Youth who are involved with substance abuse have an increased risk of dropping out of high school
• Drugs are stronger and more available than ever before
• With support from the Ottawa Food Bank, the Meal program served over 350 meals, plus additional snacks served during group sessions.  Furthermore, over 25 bags of groceries were provided to clients and families in need.

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FOR INFORMATION AND PROGRAM OVERVIEW OFFERED

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