Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I call PAARC?
Serving you is important to us, and we strive to answer all calls ‘live’. Sometimes that is not possible, and we encourage you to leave a message with your name and phone number so that we can call you back as soon as possible. If you leave a message, please let us know if we have permission to identify the name of our agency when we call back.
When you call PAARC, you can press extension 222 to reach our Clinical Intake Worker directly. You may have to leave a message if they are busy speaking to another person. If you must leave a message, we make every attempt to return your call within one business day. If you need to speak to someone immediately, you can press ‘0′ to speak to our receptionist, and they will direct you to a staff person, depending on the nature of your call.
Why do I need to speak to an Intake Worker?
Our Clinical Intake Worker knows all of PAARC’s programs, and will help connect you to the program at PAARC that best suits your needs. They will ask you some questions to determine your needs, and then they will explain how our program works. Our Clinical Intake Worker also knows about other programs in our community, and can help you connect to other services. Our Clinical Intake Worker can answer your questions, encourage you, and help you feel less anxious about seeking help. They will schedule your first appointment for you with an individual counsellor or in a group orientation session, or will directly refer you to one of our specific programs. If you have special needs, please tell our Clinical Intake Worker, and we will do our best to help you to access our services. Because some of our programs have a wait list, our clinical intake worker can discuss options for you while you are waiting for your appointment.
How long does it take to see a counsellor?
It depends. If you are referred to a program with a waitlist, you may have to wait 4- 6 weeks to receive individual counselling. We offer group support for individuals to access while they are waiting to see their counsellor. Other programs may have shorter wait times or no wait times.
What can I expect to happen at my first appointment?
During your first appointment, you can expect to meet with a counsellor and be introduced to PAARC’s services and programs. The counsellor will ask you a series of questions to better understand your needs and together, you will discuss goals and treatment planning. Before you share any personal information, the counsellor will help you understand our privacy and confidentiality policies, and other information that is important for your physical and emotional safety.
Is there a fee for PAARC services?
PAARC is funded by the Ministry of Health, so the services at PAARC are provided free of charge, with the exception of our Back on Track program. There is a fee for Back on Track, which is set by the Ministry of Transportation and is payable to the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, which is the Head Office for Back on Track.
What if English is not the language that I prefer to receive service in?
PAARC will make every reasonable effort to provide service in your preferred language. We encourage clients to bring interpretors to their appointments in instances where we are unable to provide service in your preferred language. We are available to provided guidelines that can assist you to obtain the most appropriate interpretation support.
Our Programs
We offer a variety of programs and services for people experiencing challenges related to their own or someone else’s substance use, gambling, gaming or other select behavioural dependencies.
We also have programs for individuals who are living with mental health challenges.
Programs
Staff Members
PAARC does not and shall not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), national origin (ancestry), Canadian citizenship status, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, disability, age, marital status, or military status in any of its activities or operations. These activities include, but are not limited to, hiring and involuntary termination of staff, selection of volunteers and vendors, and provision of services. We are committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all members of our staff, clients, volunteers, subcontractors, vendors, and clients.
