6-month Pilot Project
The Opportunity
The development and use of the internet and computer-related programming are on the rise and continue to change and be adapted to our society at an alarmingly fast-pace. Today, one cannot do much without accessing the internet. This has led to the development of internet/gaming and computer-related usage problems which, if left untreated, can lead to devastating effects and consequences on an individual, their family and social life, as well as their academic and work environments. Rideauwood has recognized a significant gap in the community in dealing with the treatment of individuals who are experiencing problematic use of the internet and computer gaming that is interfering with their lives. We are pleased to launch a 6 month pilot project providing fee-for service counselling services to individuals and their families who are experiencing such difficulties.
Program Description
Individual counselling will be provided on a weekly basis. Treatment will begin with a thorough assessment followed by setting goals that are client specific in order to best meet each individual’s needs. Topics of the counselling sessions will include looking at cognitions and behaviours, emotions and underlying issues, relapse prevention and maintenance, and continued support.
Criteria
Rideauwood’s Problematic Internet Use/Gaming Counselling services will be open to any individuals, 16 years old and up, who are experiencing any of the following related problems:
- Net compulsions: online gaming, shopping, auctioning
- Cyber-relational compulsions: chat room use, virtual relationship gaming
- Information-overload compulsions: excessive web and database surfing and organizing of information
- Computer game compulsions: solitaire, any other downloadable game, PS3, Xbox, etc.
- Cybersexual compulsions: viewing and trading of online pornography, fantasy role-play, cybersex
Group support may become available. Family members are eligible to receive counselling as well. Please inquire.
Facilitator
The program facilitator will be Natalie Marchenko, M.A. Counselling & Spirituality, who has been working at Rideauwood in the Adult Addictions, Family Support and Problem Gambling Programs for over 2 years. Natalie has been a counsellor for the past 6 years, providing services to clients experiencing a variety of issues, such as trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, substance addictions and compulsive behaviors (shopping/shoplifting, internet use/gaming, gambling, eating, sex). As well, she has experience working with individuals going through major life transitions, such as loss of employment, reintegration after incarceration and legal issues/court involvement.
Cost
These services will be provided on a fee-for-service basis. Counselling sessions will be billed at $85/hour, payable upon delivery. Rates are also available for family sessions.
Insurance Coverage
Counselling sessions are often covered by insurance plans. It is up to the client to verify if their insurance provider covers the cost of counselling supervised by a registered social worker. Official receipts for insurance will be provided upon request.
Registration
To access services, interested individuals can reach Natalie Marchenko, Rideauwood’s Problematic Internet Use/Gaming Counsellor, directly by phone at 613-724-4881, ext. 227 or by email at nmarchenko@rideauwood.org . If the counsellor cannot be reached by phone, callers are asked to leave a message with their name and phone number, along with a brief overview of the issue for which they are seeking support. All calls are kept confidential, and will be returned within 48 hours.
Referral Process
Private therapists, community-agency counsellors and other community workers can contact Natalie Marchenko, by phone at 613-724-4881, ext. 227, or by email at nmarchenko@rideauwood.org for further program information and to facilitate referrals.
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