Walk-in Counselling at Regina Public Library
Regina Public Library, Saskatchewan
Innovation Synopsis
Family Service Regina and Regina Public Library are working together to provide walk-in counselling at two library branches. Counselling services are delivered weekly to library customers by a registered counselor. The program is promoted primarily in branches and staff make referrals to customers experiencing distress in their lives.
Challenge/Opportunity
Research shows that the duration and intensity of clinical support can be lessened through timely response to an individual’s emotional, mental health or family needs at their point of need. The walk-in clinic is designed so that no appointment is required. RPL has a solid reputation of providing welcoming familiar spaces where the community feels safe and comfortable. Customers using the counselling services represent the full range of Regina citizens.
Key Elements of Innovation
Family Service Regina approached RPL in August of 2017 to deliver on-demand counselling services in the library, which is well known for spaces that are safe, comfortable and accessible, and to reduce the stress and stigma experienced by some people in seeking out a traditional "counselling centre." Goals include:
- Promoting mental health services to library customers
- Reaching populations that have difficulty accessing mental health support
- Providing an effective alternative to difficult-to-navigate mental health services
Achieved Outcomes
Delivering counselling services in library spaces has proven to be an innovation in ensuring mental health support is more accessible, less threatening and safe. We are helping people who would not otherwise have reached out for help. Survey data reveals that customers found help because they were at the library for other reasons and decided to take the opportunity to address a life challenge at that moment because service was accessible and easy to use.