Online social work consultations give you the opportunity to meet a single professional, entirely virtually: the social worker. In this article, we give you more information about this versatile service and how virtual consultations are delivered. We answer 7 questions about online social work.
-
How do virtual social work consultations work?
It’s very simple! The first step is to visit our website and click on “Book an appointment”. A form will then appear, which you need to fill in by selecting the service you want and the nature of your needs. Afterwards, a Clinique GO™ advisor will contact you to confirm the information mentioned, assign you a professional and schedule your consultation online!
At the time of the appointment, you will receive a secure login link to access the meeting. The portal works like all the videoconferencing interfaces we are now used to using. This means that the consultation can take place at the scheduled time, so that you can get advice from the social worker.
-
Is it as effective as a face-to-face consultation?
In most cases, yes! Social issues lend themselves well to virtual consultations, since there’s no need to carry out a physical “examination”. A good discussion between the professional and his or her client allows a picture of the situation to be drawn up, and social advice can very easily be given remotely. What’s more, the social worker can send the client additional information and resources after the meeting.
-
What are the advantages of virtual social work consultations?
The main advantage is that there is no need to travel. The consultation can be easily obtained and carried out from your home, workplace, etc. What’s more, costs can be lower than for a face-to-face consultation in a clinic, for example.
Finally, social work counselling is a versatile service that can suit people of all ages and backgrounds. You can seek advice on a wide range of personal and professional issues, as an individual, a couple or even as a family!
-
What about confidentiality and security of personal information?
Your personal and media information will remain completely confidential. This is something that Clinique GO™ takes very seriously, whether for virtual consultations or in-home consultations. When it comes to online consultations, your session is protected through a secure infrastructure. We also have strict policies regarding the protection of our clients’ personal information.
-
How do I prepare for a virtual social work consultation?
The most important thing is to be ready to talk openly and without taboos about the issue you wish to consult about. Remember that social workers are used to dealing with complex situations and are equipped to listen to you without judgement. Their aim is to advise you to the best of their knowledge.
You can, however, keep notes of everything you have done in the past in relation to the problem for which you are seeking advice: help obtained in the past, resources used, changes in the situation if it has lasted longer, etc.
-
Is it covered by private insurance?
Our services are not covered by the RAMQ. However, many private insurances cover social worker services, even those offered virtually. However, it is your responsibility to confirm your coverage with your insurer. Fees will be charged directly to you and it will be your responsibility to be reimbursed for the amount for which you are covered.
-
What types of problems can be addressed during virtual social work consultations?
As we have already mentioned, there are many different contexts in which online social work can be used. In fact, we have prepared another article covering several examples of the reasons for consultations. People may consult us for personal problems, such as managing emotions or self-esteem, or for relationship problems in couples, such as communication difficulties or mediation in the event of separation. Young people can also consult us for difficulties at school, and we also frequently intervene with families.
We have several availabilities for an online social work consultation in the coming weeks. Request your appointment now, whatever the nature of your needs!
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
