Program
Mission
To help seniors maintain their independence to the greatest extent
possible. Research has indicated that one of the greatest issues
for seniors is loneliness. The issue of social isolation is an
important factor that contributes to the high risk for suicide
among this population. Seniors often suffer losses that include
loved ones, health, income, and independence. The aim of CSS's
Senior In-Home Counseling Program is to provide a safe and supportive
environment for participants,to help clients address issues of
concern and maintain their independence to the greatest extent
possible. Many seniors use their time with us to share thoughts
about their day-to-day lives, to reminisce about the past or to
speculate about the future. All of these are good topics for discussion
during visits.
Program
Structure
The Senior In-Home Counseling program provides in-home counseling,
emotional support and telephone follow-ups to homebound seniors
who would benefit from weekly counseling. Senior clients generally
receive one counseling session per week and a minimum of one session
per month, with follow-up phone calls between sessions. Counseling
is provided by a trained volunteer or intern; all counselors receive
weekly supervision from licensed therapists. The number of visits
and follow-up calls depend upon the needs of the individual client.At
this time, there are no restrictions on the length of time that
each client may remain in the program given that they are still
able to benefit from counseling.
Who
We Serve
Seniors must be 60 years of age or older in order to participate
in the program; special emphasis is given to homebound, socially
isolated, low-income and minority elders who may not be able to
acquire mental health services through more conventional means.
The program serves senior residents in North Alameda County (Berkeley,
Albany, Emeryville and North Oakland) and Central Alameda County
(San Leandro, San Lorenzo, Hayward and Castro Valley).
Fees
Services are offered free of charge.
Contact
Information
For more information on the senior program, call (510) 420-2475
.
