Men’s Counselling Link launches across Ontario

A new counselling service for men is now available in Ontario. By dialing 211, men can speak with a clinician or book an appointment.

A new counselling service designed specifically for men has officially launched across Ontario.

The initiative, known as the ‘Men’s Counselling Link,’ provides immediate access to support by simply dialing 211. Through this connection, men can speak directly with a trained clinician or schedule an in-person appointment at a local Family Service Centre.

Timmins agency embraces complementary program

In Timmins, the service is being facilitated through the Timmins Family Counselling Centre. The program is seen as a natural extension of the organization’s existing efforts to support men in the community.

“Since we are already serving men and having a really a specific program for men and giving them those services that are free is just kind of complementary to what we were already doing,” said Tania Duguay, the centre’s executive director.

Crisis support and scheduled appointments available

The service is designed to be flexible, catering to individuals in acute distress as well as those seeking scheduled support. The process ensures men receive the appropriate level of care based on their immediate needs.

“If it’s a crisis, they’ll connect them with a therapist who will be speaking to them right away, otherwise, they’ll book them into that first, appointment in the Family Service Agency,” said Susan Somogyi, chief executive officer for Family Service Ontario.

Service extends to non-crisis situations

The Men’s Counselling Link is also a resource for men who are not experiencing a crisis but are seeking guidance for other challenges. Operators are trained to assess the caller’s situation to determine if the program is a suitable fit.

“If they’re calling for, again, other issues, a 211 operator will ask questions and try to explore whether this might be a service that’s appropriate for them,” said Somogyi.

Officials confirmed that the launch of the Men’s Counselling Link responds to a significant increase in demand for mental health and family services. They emphasize that the primary requirement for those calling is a personal desire to make positive changes for themselves and their families.