Social Workers Open Doors
March 4-10 is Social Work Week. This year’s theme is Social Workers Opens Doors to greater mental wellbeing, safety and stability. Circle of Care is proud to have a great team of social workers and social service workers who assist many older adults in the Toronto area by providing necessary supports.
Below, some of our Social Workers share their stories about how they have opened doors for their clients and helped provide them with the tools they need to live independently at home.
Maria Opened Doors for Her Client
Maria Opened Doors for Her Client
Olga Opened Doors for Howard
“I received a referral for short term counselling for a client named Howard. Early on, Howard told me about an addiction that he suffers from, which I knew was beyond my scope of practice. However, Howard and I chose to continue talking, as there were other issues on his mind, on top of the addiction.
Through conversation and research on my part, I was able to connect Howard to a specializing clinic for his addiction, at a rate that he was comfortable to pay. We continued our sessions while Howard started seeing clinic therapist, as the topics of discussion were completely different.
When we were left with one session to book, Howard told me that he felt like he was doing well and did not have the need to talk further. He thanked me and said he was grateful for the help and association. Although Howard had been trying to help himself for years with his addiction, reaching out to various resources, I was able to find a different resource that was a new and helpful approach for him, while also providing him with counselling and different perspectives on situations. By giving Howard a respectful and non-judgmental space, he and I built trust and rapport, which left Howard feeling confident on his own after our sessions came to an end.”
– Olga, Social Worker
Julia Opened Doors for a Holocaust Survivor Client
“Being a Social Worker within the Holocaust Survivor Program, I have witnessed the positive impact the program and its services has had on our clients.
A few months ago, a client of mine had a bad fall which caused her to remain in hospital for a few weeks. The client, wanting to return back home, was eager to be discharged but the client’s family worried about whether the client would be well supported. After assessing the client and her needs, we were able to schedule workers at times when the client would be alone and needed additional support at home. The client shared with me how happy she was to be back home and have the opportunity to bake for others – something that gives her so much joy!
Most of all, the client felt safe and well supported. Workers through our program have accompanied the client to a Falls Prevention Program and by “opening this door” for the client, she has expressed how much improvement her mobility is since the fall. I am grateful to be a part of a program that strives towards helping seniors in multiple ways. Being able to continue participating in activities that she enjoys doing, my client’s overall mental health, emotional wellbeing, and physical health has improved. It has been really encouraging, to be able to witness the benefits of our services.”
– Julia, Holocaust Survivor Services Case Manager
Elinor Opened Doors for Caregivers
“I co-facilitate our Caregiver Support Group. The participants that attend this group often feel very lonely, not understood, and overwhelmed. They’re seeking understanding and support, and are keen to learn about resources that can help them.
Through the support group sessions, I have found that the participants have been able to connect with each other and develop community. These are empathetic individuals who understand their struggles. And they provide such valuable insights and advice for each other. Participants feel truly heard and supported.
I’ve seen how the group becomes a lifeline for many participants, providing emotional validation and practical assistance. They learn about local support services and resources available for caregivers. Armed with this newfound knowledge, they leave more equipped to navigate the complexities of caregiving and access the help they need.
Furthermore, the connections that they make within the group sometimes blossom into lasting friendships outside of the support group sessions. These friendships provide ongoing support and companionship, alleviating some of the loneliness and isolation participants may be experiencing.
As a result of participating in the Caregiver Support Group, I have seen participants’ outlook on caregiving transform. They gain confidence in their ability to care for their loved one, while also prioritizing their own well-being.
Overall, the support group opens doors to our clients- providing them with a supportive community, valuable resources, and even lasting friendships sometimes. These opportunities have made a profound difference in their lives, allowing them to navigate their caregiving journey with greater resilience and optimism.”
– Elinor, Social Work Professional Practice Lead
Revital Opened Doors for Mr. P
“Mr. P was referred to me for counselling for his growing depression after his wife was diagnosed with dementia. Mr. P had lived a good, happy, successful life, but over the last couple of years he had started to feel intense sadness which he could not control.
When he came to see me for the first time, we uncovered that the sadness and depression was a result of him feeling like he was losing himself, his meaning in life, and just an overall loss. He had started to work on overcoming his depression, but we uncovered that his pursuit should be finding meaning and purpose in his life once again.
He is now vacationing in Spain, healing his existential crisis. When he returns to Canada, he will look for volunteer opportunities where he can feel fulfilled.”
– Revital, Social Worker
