DHHS OFFERS COUNSELLING SERVICES

DHHS is pleased with the establishment of a new partnership that will bring counselling services for the Deaf or hard of hearing community a step closer. Partnership commenced in early April, a contractual service with H.O.P.E. Inc. will help to close a recognized gap in providing mental health services to Deaf or hard of hearing individuals, families and couples, allowing for direct, confidential communication between the client and counsellor.

DHHS has contracted Dee Dee Kay, director of H.O.P.E. Inc. and a fully bilingual counsellor and interpreter well known to the Deaf community. H.O.P.E. Inc. has provided counselling, interpreting and mediation services since the fall of 2009.

The new partnership arrangement will allow clients to access fully qualified counselling services in their own language. Dee Dee is certified with the Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association, holds membership in the Psychologists Association of Alberta and is working towards her designation as a Registered Psychologist. Also, she holds a certificate in conflict resolution and has additional training in play therapy. She is an active member of the Deaf community and was awarded member of the year in 2008-2009. In addition to individual counselling, family therapy will play a key role within this new partnership. Clients will be charged a small fee based on their annual income.

The new partnership between DHHS and H.O.P.E. Inc., which will enhance the provision of much-needed mental health services for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, delivers on a key direction identified in the 2009 Strategic Plan.

Appointments can be made by texting 403-605-9536 or by e-mail to deedeekay@shaw.ca.