Counselling.

Caring support to help you understand, accept and manage your vision level.

A supportive ear; an experienced guide.

When you experience a change in vision, you have to adjust to a new way of understanding the world. It can be difficult, but we’re here to support you through every step.

From the moment you discover that your vision may change, we’re on hand to listen with empathy and guide you through your whole experience.

Throughout your initial feelings and beyond, we can support you to understand and accept your situation, address any barriers or concerns, and look after your overall health and wellbeing.

Who can receive counselling?

Anyone, at any age, at any stage can benefit from the right conversation.

No matter how long you’ve had low vision, or the nature or extent of your low vision, talking to someone can help. Counselling can be beneficial for:

People adjusting to a recent change in vision
People experiencing a gradual change in vision
People with long-standing low vision or blindness
Carers, friends, and family members of people with low vision or blindness

Where do the sessions take place?

We’ll find or create a safe place where you feel comfortable, calm, and supported.

Depending on your preference, counselling sessions can happen:

In your home
In a private space at one of our local Guide Dogs Centres
In conversation over the phone

How can counselling help?

Counselling is an opportunity for you to talk openly and honestly with someone one-on-one.

You can talk about anything you like, including any feelings, concerns, or challenges you face in experiencing a change in vision, or long-term low vision.

These conversations can help you to build strategies to overcome any difficult feelings and continue living a fulfilling life. Plus, it’s always good to get things off your chest in a caring, supportive, and safe environment. Counselling can support you to:

Understand and accept your change in vision or low vision
Develop strategies to cope with changes in your life
Improve your outlook and general wellbeing
Make plans for the future
Overcome concerns or challenges around your independence
Access additional information, resources, and support.

A person sitting with a Guide Dog's staff member. The staff member is writing on a small white board on her laptop while the person is looking at the board. The person is holding a white cane in their hands.

How the counselling team can help you

Work toward a future with hope and confidence.

Our counselling team is dedicated to helping all Queenslanders impacted by vision loss to overcome the associated emotional barriers, learn to manage their feelings and work toward a future with hope and confidence.

In addition to offering personal support in private counselling sessions, we may also suggest group programs that may be useful for you to participate in, like the Better Living Program. Facilitated by our experienced team, this program gives you the chance to share with people in a similar situation and learn effective strategies from others to cope with your vision loss.

We’re here to help you. If you would like to request a Counselling service, simply click here or to chat further about how we can help you.

Ph: 07 3500 9060

Email: clients@guidedogsqld.com.au

“Experiencing vision loss can be emotionally and mentally challenging. We’re here to help you understand the impact of your vision loss and provide the support you need to take care of your health and wellbeing.”

Dr Janet Cheong Psychologist, Guide Dogs Queensland

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