SOCIAL WORK

The social worker (SW) intervenes on the environmental, social and systemic factors that affect a person's well-being: access to resources, family functioning, financial difficulties, administrative procedures, social adaptation and psychosocial support. She may also practice psychotherapy if she holds a psychotherapist's permit issued by the OPQ. The psychologist focuses more on internal psychological processes, diagnostic assessments and psychotherapy. The two professionals are complementary and frequently collaborate in our team.

Yes, our social workers carry out functional and autonomy assessments for seniors and their families. The assessment takes into account the person's cognitive, physical, functional and social abilities. It helps identify home support needs, appropriate housing resources, available community services and steps to access public care (CLSC, CHSLD, intermediate resources). Caregiver support is also offered to prevent burnout and facilitate family decision-making.

Yes, it's one of the distinctive strengths of social work. Our professionals are familiar with the network of resources available in Quebec: social assistance, family allowances, housing assistance, DPJ services, legal aid, community groups, crisis services, organizations that support women who are victims of violence, housing services, seniors' day centers, etc. They can help you identify the resources best suited to your situation, and guide you through the often complex or unfamiliar steps involved in accessing them.

Yes, caregivers (people who support a family member who is ill, losing their autonomy or disabled) are often forgotten in the care system. Our social workers offer specific support to prevent and treat caregiver burnout, clarify roles and limits, find respite, access community support resources, and navigate the difficult decisions surrounding placement or care. Caregivers deserve support too - consulting is not a sign of weakness, it's an act of responsibility.

The first meeting (60 to 75 minutes) is a psychosocial assessment. The social worker invites you to describe your current situation, your history, your difficulties and your needs. She explores the different spheres of your life (family, work, finances, health, relationships) to obtain a global vision. At the end of the session, she shares her understanding of the situation and proposes an intervention plan with clear objectives. You don't need to have experienced a crisis to consult us - prevention and guidance are just as valid as reasons for consultation.

Yes, separation or divorce is one of life's most complex transitions, emotionally, financially and logistically. The social worker can help you get through this period with greater stability: emotional support, help in communicating with the ex-partner, referral to legal resources (legal aid, family mediation), parental support and guidance for the children, as well as practical planning (housing, finances, custody). In cases of domestic violence, referral to specialized resources is offered.

Yes, under certain conditions. In Quebec, a social worker may practice psychotherapy if she holds a psychotherapist's permit issued by the Ordre des psychologues du Québec (OPQ), in addition to her membership in the Ordre des travailleurs sociaux et des thérapeutes conjugaux et familiaux du Québec (OTSTCFQ). When this license is held, she can offer psychotherapeutic interventions for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships and other mental health issues. Ask about the specific qualifications of the available professional when you book your appointment.

Yes, our social workers work with families experiencing relational, parental or behavioral difficulties. This includes supporting parents in difficulty, managing family conflicts, dealing with issues related to behavioral problems or children's academic difficulties, and referring them to school, community or protective resources. It's important to note that our services are provided in a private setting - the social worker is not mandated to make referrals to the DPJ in the context of a private consultation, unless required by law.

Private social work services are not covered by RAMQ. Some private group insurances reimburse consultations with a social worker who is a member of the OTSTCFQ under the category of mental health services or paramedical professionals. Check your coverage with your insurer. Your employer's Employee Assistance Program (EAP) may also cover several sessions free of charge. Social work services provided by the public network (CLSC, CIUSSS) are free, but often have waiting periods. See our Fees section for more information.

No. No medical referral is required to consult a social worker at Clinique Omicron. You can make an appointment directly, on your own initiative. Social work is an autonomous profession - you don't need a medical or psychiatric diagnosis to receive support. Some insurers may require a referral note for reimbursement - check with your insurer before your consultation.

You can book an appointment via our online portal, by telephone at 514 606-3350 or by e-mail at info@cliniqueomicron.ca. No prescription or prior diagnosis is required. Please provide a brief description of your situation when you book your appointment, to facilitate referral to the right professional. Consultations are offered in clinics and by teleconsultation. In the event of a crisis or social emergency, immediate assistance resources are available: 811 (Info-Social), 9-8-8 (psychological distress) or 911 in case of danger.