Trained counsellors available to help individuals with stress, anxiety, depression and more as part of a new pilot program.
Access Wellness is a free single-session supportive counselling service for individuals, couples or families.
Trained counsellors can help people manage:
- Stress
- Mild to moderate depression or anxiety
- Relationship issues
- General mental health concerns
- Loss
The appointments can be both in-person and virtual for Nova Scotia residents ages 18 and older, including people with private healthcare coverage. The service is not intended to replace ongoing counselling for people requiring more intensive or specialized support.
Many people can benefit from supportive counselling, but not everyone has the income or private insurance to pay for it. Delivering free counselling to help Nova Scotians cope with life’s stresses and stay mentally well is one way we are working to increase access to mental health supports for all Nova Scotians.
- Brian Comer, Minister responsible for the Office of Addictions and Mental Health
People can book appointments directly by calling 1-833-691-2282 seven days a week between 8 a.m. and 11 p.m., or visiting Access Wellness Nova Scotia.
Daytime, evening and weekend appointments are available, although days and hours of operation vary in each region.
The service complements others already in place, including the provincial Peer Support Phone Service and e-mental health programs.
Access Wellness is the kind of innovative solution to healthcare that Nova Scotia needs. For so many people, stigma and access are the biggest barriers to getting mental health support. This program addresses those barriers and allows people to experience the benefits of therapy for themselves. Our team is ready to help Nova Scotians across the province and we’re excited to be part of the Nova Scotia government’s efforts to improve mental health and well-being.
- Dr. Matthew Chow, Chief Mental Health Officer, TELUS Health