* This post is written by a guest blogger - it is not sponsored. *
Have you ever found it difficult to access effective counselling because of your disability or illness?
My name is Helen and I founded Emotional Respite: Disability Counselling Service in 2014 after identifying a gap in the market. I concluded that counselling was not accessible to all after researching the barriers people with disabilities or illnesses faced when trying to access psychological support.
Some Of The Barriers Many People Face Include:
Counsellor Knowledge Of The Clients’ Frame Of Reference And World Experience:
This is something I felt was lacking in mainstream services as very little training is given around disability in my experience. They may lack knowledge on the social and medical models, of what ableism is and inspiration porn etc.
Support:
If an individual needs support to get to their appointment is that support available? Needing support can exacerbate the loss of independence and may result in feeling like a burden. It can also take away an individuals’ privacy. Individuals may not be able to do anything independently. Offering online services is an inclusive resource promoting privacy and autonomy.
Fatigue:
Many people with disabilities and illnesses have fatigue and this may be a big factor in committing to attend regular appointments. The stress of planning and relying on others to be able to attend appointments may also be a consideration. Online counselling can offer a flexible alternative on your terms.
Stigma:
People may find it difficult to ask for the help they need for fear of stigma. Individuals may not want their families or friends to worry about them and may put on a brave face.
I have always been passionate about promoting psychological services for all and I wanted to build a service that represented the people who used it. We offer a flexible online service accessible from your home around your needs.
Emotional Respite counsellors all have lived experience of disability which gives them insight and awareness that other counsellors may lack. Currently, in our team, we have lived experience of Spinal Muscular Atrophy, Scoliosis, Chronic Pain, Chronic Fatigue, Cerebral Palsy, Spinal Cord Injury, Epilepsy and Endometriosis. We will continue to expand as it is my aim to have as much representation as possible. I've developed this service to give counsellors with disabilities or illnesses the opportunity to work flexibly around their own health whilst promoting and valuing their knowledge, skills, and insight. I felt this service should encapsulate both sides.
#NothingAboutUsWithoutUs
Hi, I'm Lauren and I have been living with a collection of disabilities for the past 8 years. I initially had a passion for teaching children with special needs, but my health prevented me from pursuring my dream career. Despite this, I now love nothing more than sharing my experiences to help other people living with disabilities.
Hi, I’m Lori and was diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and a family of co-morbid conditions which has made life highly complex. However I constantly aim to make life as ‘normal’ and fulfilling as possible - and through this, I discovered the benefits of writing about my journey.