Counselling during the Covid-19 Crisis

The corona crisis has dramatically and rapidly changed our world. It has changed how we live and work. Never have we faced a time of such uncertainty, and it looks as though covid-19 has become something we will have to live with for the foreseeable future.

The restrictions on social contact require us to change how we all live and work. And, as counsellors, we are aware that now, more than ever, there will likely be an increasing need for counselling support.

In view of the restrictions imposed by the Dutch government and health authorities, we are therefore offering online and telephone sessions in addition to in-person contact, depending on what best meets your needs.

For online counselling we use highly secure platforms that conform to the privacy and security requirements as set out under the General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) of the European Union. Note that most insurers will now cover counselling sessions that are conducted remotely. But, as always, be sure to check with your insurer about this.

For the safety of clients attending in person, we have put the following measures in place:

  • Extra attention is being paid to cleaning all counselling spaces.
  • We will maintain 1.5-2 m distance.
  • If you (or someone you live with) are exhibiting symptoms such as coughing, runny nose, or fever, we recommend not coming in person but postponing or setting up an online appointment.
  • If you (or someone you live with) are in one of the high-risk categories, we recommend not coming in person but postponing or setying up an online appointment.
  • Please disinfect your hands after arriving. We have hand sanitizer available.
  • Depending on the venue, we will not be able to offer any beverages during your appointment.

The covid-19 pandemic has challenged and continues to challenge us at many levels, causing widespread anxiety and stress. As levels of infection change, how do we respond to the current situation and manage the need to get on with life against the risk of exposure to infection?

Loneliness is a huge problem, especially for those who live alone and are feeling deprived of social contact. Many are grieving the loss of a loved one, possibly without the comfort of a goodbye. Others have been ill with covid and are still impacted by the experience. There is also widespread uncertainty about employment because of the economic impact.


If you are struggling with the consequences of covid-19, we at International Counselling Connections are here to support you.

Tips for coping with social isolation

ICC REACHES OUT

The covid crisis has placed huge demands on our coping resources. Working from home - and trying to establish a balance between work and family life, entertaining children who are not at school - or are there only part of the time, anxiety and uncertainty about the future, looking after vulnerable family members - or not being able to travel to be with family. All can lead to being overwhelmed and stressed. Many people are self-isolating, worried about spreading infection, anxious about their own health and becoming ill with covid. Friends and family try to comfort and support each other - but at a distance. Many people are grieving the loss of someone close to them.

Then there are the most heroic - those who take care of the sick in these desperate circumstances. Who takes care of the carers? Who is there for the other essential workers - those who deliver our mail, who pick up our trash, who restock the shelves in the supermarket?

We are here to help. If you need support, please send us an e-mail at info@icconnections.org

Our intake counsellor will contact you as soon as possible,
usually within a day.



Useful links:


Official Dutch information:
Other official information:
News sources: