Psychological Treatment Program

Caregiver Testimonial

“Regarding the psychological support program.  I have found the program most useful in dealing with the terrific strain of having my partner suffer with ALS.  The enormity of the situation has had a noticeable impact on my emotional state and I often suffer from panic attacks.  I have been having counselling sessions with the psychologist for about eighteen months now. I have found her empathy and understanding to be very helpful in dealing with my emotions. These sessions, which are on an approximately monthly basis, are a very useful supplement to advice and counselling with my GP.  The fact that these sessions, organized through the ALS Society, are part pro-bono means I am able to have this psychological support that I otherwise would not be able to afford.” Jim – May 2024

“Caring for a loved one with a terminal illness like ALS is emotionally challenging, I realized that it is important to prioritize my own mental health and well-being. The psychological support program provides helpful resources by licensed counsellor for me to cope with the unique stressors of being a caregiver. I have several questions on what are the best approaches to manage my wife’s (and my own) emotional turbulence and ever-changing health conditions, the licensed counsellor provides some useful tips to deal with the situation and also helps to process my emotions, develop coping strategies, and manage stress. It was a very important resource to help me navigate the difficult situation.” – Roger, January 2024

“I have been on the ALS caregiver journey for six years and counting. I requested counseling services when I realized I was experiencing many symptoms of caregiver burnout. My counselor has direct experience with ALS, which helps them understand this unique journey. I have found the counseling most helpful. They have suggested coping strategies that I have responded to positively.

A significant challenge encountered on my caregiving journey is the often-heard phrase, ‘You have to take care of yourself, too.’  What does the even mean or look like? My counseling sessions have helped me understand self-care and the importance of making time for yourself. Working with my counselor, I’m learning to set goals – both small ones and larger ones – that are helping me fill my near-empty tank. Another positive of this counseling is being able to speak freely about the responsibilities as a caregiver. Given confidentiality is a must with regard to my person’s health/care, I am unable to talk to friends or family about my experience so appreciate having a safe space to unload the harder parts of this role. 

This counseling is also helping me crack open the door about what life may be like once the caregiving role is over. Overall, I’m so grateful to have this counseling service available and I truly believe without it, I wouldn’t be coping well on this journey.” – Anonymous, August 2023