May 1, 2023
Mental health is a crucial aspect of our overall well-being. It influences our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, all of which shape our lives. For Mental Health Week (May 1 – 7), we want to encourage self-care and dispel the myth that mental health support is only about one-on-one counselling and therapy. Mental health is supported by individuals, their families, and their communities. While mental health is your responsibility, at Carrier Sekani Family Services (CSFS), we offer a wide array of services beyond clinician care that can assist you along your mental health journey. Mental health support encompasses a broad range of occupations that work together to help individuals maintain good mental health.
CSFS Wellness Workers promote holistic self-care with our clients, including mental, emotional, spiritual, and physical well-being. They provide support for people who are looking to attend treatment, and are looking for assistance in completing their applications for treatment. They will also assist with psycho and social education, which includes written material and workshops on topics such as “how to manage substance abuse of a loved one,” and “stages of change to help with addiction recovery.” Our Wellness Worker are often peers, and have earned a certificate or diploma in a helping profession.
Elders and knowledge holders play a vital role in Carrier and Sekani culture in promoting mental health. They possess a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be shared with younger generations, and are considered the keepers of tradition and culture, which can help promote a sense of belonging and identity. Our mental health services partner with Elders and knowledge holders to lead ceremony, provide one-on-one time with clients, and offer direction and advice for traditional healing.
CSFS Mental Health Support Workers provide one-on-one education and support with our clients. Services offered include post-therapy maintenance support, group psycho-social education, which includes providing written information and workshops on topics such as how to manage mood disorders like anxiety or depression or coping with grief. We are always open to ideas of what type of information our community members would like to hear. Support workers also co-facilitate group sessions, conduct suicide risk assessment and care plans under direct clinician supervision. They also offer emotional support, and encourage individuals to achieve their goals. Our Mental Health Support Workers have a minimum of an undergraduate (bachelor) degree in a mental health field.
CSFS Mental Health Clinicians are professionals who specialize in the treatment of mental health conditions. They include psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers, and clinical counsellors. They use a variety of therapeutic techniques, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, to help individuals manage their symptoms and improve their overall well-being. Services offered by Mental Health Clinicians include one-on-one therapy, group therapy, and suicide risk assessment and care plans. They also work closely with other mental health professionals, such as primary care physicians and nurses, to ensure a coordinated and effective treatment plan. Our Mental Health Clinicians have a minimum of a graduate (master) degree in a mental health field.
CSFS Child and Youth Mental Health Workers specialize in the mental health needs of children and youth. They provide a range of services, including counseling, behaviour management, and family support. They also work closely with other professionals, such as teachers and pediatricians, to build connections between youth and the adults who care for them.
In conclusion, mental health support encompasses a broad range of occupations that work together to help individuals maintain good mental health. During Mental Health Week, it's essential to recognize the valuable contributions of these various CSFS positions and the diverse range of services they provide. Whether it's a wellness worker offering stress management techniques, an elder providing guidance and support, or a mental health clinician using therapeutic techniques, each profession plays a vital role in promoting mental wellness. At CSFS, we are able to provide an array of services that are culturally-safe and evidence-based. However, it's crucial to remember that mental health support starts with you and is not a one-size-fits-all process. Individuals should explore different options to find the support that works best for them.
Accessing our services
If you would like mental health assistance from any of the positions listed above, please reach out to:
Prince George Office
#301-1705 3rd Ave
Prince George, BC
Telephone: 250-564-4079
Fax: 250-561-7097
Vanderhoof Office
240 W. Steward St.
Vanderhoof, BC
Toll free: 1-866-567-2333
Telephone: 250-567-2900
Fax: 250-567-2975
Burns Lake Office
108-2ndAvenue
Burns Lake, BC
Telephone: 250-692-2387
Fax: 250-692-2389
We also have free mental health booklets available for download on our website that cover:
Support is Available 24/7
If you are in a time of crisis, there are help lines available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You are never alone.
Kuu-us Crisis Line
Northern BC Crisis Line
24 Hour Help Line
National Indian Residential School Crisis Line
Crisis Prevention (Northern BC)
Poison Control
Suicide Prevention
Kids Help Phone Line
Hope for Wellness Help Line
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Last modified: Wednesday 03-Apr-24 12:36:29 PDT
CSFS gratefully acknowledges Noeleen McQuary, the artisan who created the traditional Carrier baskets used in the CSFS branding on this webpage, and in other print and online media.
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