TRAVAIL SOCIAL | Clinique Omicron Québec

The social worker (SW) intervenes in 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 psychotherapy license issued by the OPQ. The psychologist focuses more on internal psychological processes, diagnostic assessments, and psychotherapy. Both professionals are complementary and frequently collaborate within our team.

Yes. Our social workers conduct assessments of functioning and autonomy with seniors and their loved ones. The assessment takes into account the person's cognitive, physical, functional, and social abilities. It helps identify home support needs, appropriate housing options, available community services, and steps for accessing public healthcare (CLSC, CHSLD, intermediate resources). Support for family caregivers is also offered to prevent burnout and facilitate family decision-making.

Yes, this is one of the distinctive strengths of social work. Our professionals know the network of resources available in Quebec: social assistance, family allowances, housing assistance, DPJ services, legal aid, community groups, crisis services, organizations supporting women victims of violence, shelter services, day centers for seniors, etc. They help you identify the resources suited to your situation and accompany you in the steps to access them, which are often complex or unknown.

Yes. Family caregivers (people who support a sick, frail, or disabled family member) are often overlooked in the healthcare system. Our social workers offer specific support to prevent and treat caregiver burnout, clarify roles and boundaries, find respite, access community support resources, and navigate difficult decisions surrounding placement or care. Family caregivers deserve support too – seeking help 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. They will explore the different areas of your life (family, work, finances, health, relationships) to get a comprehensive overview. At the end of the session, they will share their understanding of the situation and propose an intervention plan with clear objectives. It is not necessary to have experienced a crisis to consult – prevention and guidance are equally valid reasons for consultation.

Yes. Separation or divorce is one of life's most emotionally, financially, and logistically complex transitions. A social worker can help you navigate this period with greater stability by providing emotional support, assistance with communication with your ex-partner, referrals to legal resources (legal aid, family mediation), parental support and guidance for children, and help with practical steps (housing, finances, custody). In cases of domestic violence, referrals to specialized resources are offered.

Yes, under certain conditions. In Quebec, a social worker can practice psychotherapy if they hold a psychotherapy permit issued by the Order of Psychologists of Quebec (OPQ), in addition to their membership title from the Order of Social Workers and Family and Marital Therapists of Quebec (OTSTCFQ). When this permit is held, they can offer psychotherapeutic interventions for anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, and other mental health issues. Inquire about the specific qualifications of the available professional when making an appointment.

Yes. Our social workers support families experiencing relational, parental, or behavioral difficulties. This includes support for struggling parents, family conflict resolution, issues related to behavioral disorders or children's academic difficulties, and referrals to educational, community, or protection resources. It is important to note that our services are provided within a private framework—the social worker is not mandated to report to child protection services as part of a private consultation, unless legally obligated.

Private social work services are not covered by the RAMQ. Some private group insurance plans 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. Public network social work services (CLSC, CIUSSS) are free but often have waiting lists. See our Pricing section for more information.

No. No medical referral is required to consult a social worker at Clinique Omicron. You can book an appointment directly, on your own initiative. Social work is an autonomous profession—a medical or psychiatric diagnosis is not necessary to benefit from support. Some insurers may require a referral note for reimbursement—check with your insurer before your appointment.

You can book an appointment through our online portal, by phone at 514 606-3350, or by email at info@cliniqueomicron.ca. No prior prescription or diagnosis is required. Briefly describe your situation when booking your appointment to help us refer you to the right professional. Consultations are available in-person and via teleconsultation. In case of crisis or social emergency, immediate help resources are available: 811 (Info-Social), 9-8-8 (mental health crisis line), or 911 in case of danger.