It appears that news on the spread of COVID-19 or Coronavirus is ever evolving.
While it is important to be aware of what’s happening, it is equally important to be sure that you engage in self-care, to nurture your physical and mental heath and those of your children, during these uncertain times.
Be mindful of the impact that these type of events have on children and where possible limit their exposure to media coverage, as often news coverage and images are repetitive and can cause unnecessary stress and anxiety.
Attached is a really helpful social story called COVIBOOK which can be downloaded and read to younger children. This book explains what is happening in child-friendly terms and assists children to process any emotions they may be feeling in relation to the current circumstances.
At this stage, Zena Clarke Counselling will be practicing as usual, however Zena asks that all clients and their families follow current government and health authority recommendations.
To ensure that the health and well-being of all clients and Zena is at the forefront, there will be some specific changes to Zena Clarke Counselling:
If Zena is unwell or develops flu-like symptoms, she will not be attending the practice. If this does occur advice of this will be emailed out to clients. Telehealth alternatives will be offered where appropriate.
Zena asks that all clients please do the same. If clients do arrive onsite and appear to have flu-like symptoms, the session will not proceed and they will be asked to go home immediately .
Zena requests that you please only bring the person who is attending the appointment to the practice, this helps to limit the amount of people in the waiting room and cross-contamination.
All clients will be directed to wash their hands upon arrival and before entering the counselling space. Clients will also be asked to use hand sanitiser on their way out.
Some toys will be removed from the waiting room and counselling space. Zena asks that you please bring your own toys and sanitiser, if needed, for the waiting room.
All frequently touched surfaces will be sanitised after use including, but not limited to, toys, desks and door handles.
Telehealth/Video sessions
Zena is offering telehealth options to clients who are deemed to be an appropriate fit for this method. This will be discussed on a case-by-case basis, however, where possible, EAP, young adult and parent sessions will be encouraged to move to telehealth consultations.
As the situation regarding COVID-19 evolves, I will endeavour to update this blog accordingly. Zena Clarke Counselling is confident that if we act together and remain sensible, as a community we will navigate this tricky time with minimal disruption to normal daily life.
If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me on 0415 743 006.
In the meantime take care of yourselves, and your families.
