Document Type
Article
Publication Date
3-17-2016
Department
Social Work
Department
Social Work
Abstract
Walk-in single session counselling is becoming a more widely used model for delivering mental health services across Ontario. This paper reports findings from the qualitative phase of a mixed method study, exploring the experiences of those attending walk-in counselling (WIC) model compared to the traditional service delivery model employing a wait list. We used a comparative case study design for the qualitative phase. Findings reveal that participant outcomes of the walk-in counselling model is influenced by accessibility, how a participant makes sense of the service, and the degree to which a participant is motivated and able to engage in counselling. WIC supports the mental health system by reducing wait lists associated with traditional service delivery models, and meeting the needs many people identify for immediate consultation. Other participants still perceive themselves as requiring ongoing counselling over time and involving in-depth exploration. This research supports health systems providing access to both models.
Recommended Citation
Cait, Cheryl-Anne; Skop, Michelle J.; Booton, Jocelyn; Stalker, Carol; Horton, Susan; and Riemer, Manuel, "Practice-based Qualitative Research: Participant Experiences of Walk-in Counselling and Traditional Counselling" (2016). Lyle S. Hallman Social Work Faculty Publications. 17.
https://scholars.wlu.ca/scwk_faculty/17