NEECS has a policy of self-referral. This means that anyone who would like to come for counselling
is required to make the request on their own behalf.
To
refer yourself for counselling, please phone NEECS on 557 4478.
What happens when you phone:
*
The phone is generally answered between 9 am & 5 pm Monday to Thursday
and 9 am - 2 pm on Friday. Any messages left on the answerphone are
responded to between these hours.
Due
to our limited resources, it is sometimes necessary to put the answering
machine on. We know it can be off-putting, but we will call you back. If you
leave a message, please give a number where you can be contacted during
the day. At this stage, it is not necessary to give any more information
other than your name and telephone number. When we call back, we will not
discuss
your call with anyone else or say that it is NEECS calling.
The office is not open on Saturday & Sunday.
* We
check that your address is inside the catchment area for the service.
(It covers an area around the North East including Leith, Lochend,
Craigentinny, Northfield and Portobello).
*
We ask you whether you wish to be on the waiting list for the Short Term
Service or Core Service, explaining what each one offers.
(Information about the two services in the "Counselling" section).
* We take your name, address, telephone number and email address (if
applicable) and ask you where you heard about the service.
All letters are marked "private" and if we phone,
we speak only to you.
*
At this stage, we do not ask any personal questions regarding your reasons
for seeking counselling.
* The
contact information you have given us is then stored on computer
and you are emailed or sent confirmation that you are
on the waiting list.
Appointments:
You
will be contacted as agreed by letter, email or phone to offer you an initial session. When sending out appointments,
we always ask clients to confirm they will be coming in order to avoid unused sessions and further lengthening waiting
times. When you have agreed to come for a number of sessions, they will take place on a regular day and time.
At your initial appointment, your counsellor will give you printed information about appointment arrangements and confidentiality.
