It is the centrepiece of the service and the core from which other services are created. The availability and immediacy of the walk-in service enables clients to address their mental health issues without delay, work towards resolution of their most pressing concerns, become clearer about additional counselling and other service needs and receive ongoing support. .
The principles that guided the original development of the walk-in service and underscore the current unique service delivery model are:.
Accessible: Anyone can come for a walk-in session. There are no restrictions to individuals or family groups. While clients may be "referred " by a neighbour, friend or community professional there is no formal referral process to complicate access to the service.
Affordable: Clients can access the walk-in service at no cost to themselves, thanks to a combination of government contracts, foundation grants, fund-raising, and professionals who volunteer. .
Immediate response to community need: Clients come when they determine that they need the service. There is none of the wait lists, referral processes or intake requirements that often occur in traditional counselling services.
Responding to what clients want: The focus of each session is to determine what clients want and then to give it to them. Walk-in therapy is not a screening, assessment or triage service. The context of the service supports pragmatics, utilization of client resources and responsiveness to immediate need.
A community resource: The service works in close connection with other community resources. New components of the family centre are developed in collaboration with existing community resources and agencies. Formal partnerships are in place so that resources can be shared. Regular utilization of the walk-in service by other counselling agencies is testament to the cooperative nature of the community connections.
A community safety net: The service provides an important safety net.