Whilst the support workers at CENS are all mental health first aiders and trained to be conscientious of the residents’ emotional needs, they are not trained therapists. This means they are ethically bound to work within their limits of capabilities.
The right support
There is a strong correlation between homelessness and mental health issues. 87 percent of referrals disclosed a mental health diagnosis. To help service users move forward and cope well once they’ve left the safe bubble of CENS, uncovering past issues with highly-trained professionals is something CENS is really excited to offer. That’s why manager Marina worked tirelessly to secure this funding and is pleased to be partnering with the Life-Force Centre.
Resident’s experience
One resident is halfway through the eight sessions provided and is seeing differences in her outlook already.
“I have had therapy before but don’t think I was quite ready for it. I missed appointments and turned up late. However, I am desperate for change so when CENS offered me the sessions with LifeForce, I jumped at the chance.
“I really can’t believe I am homeless at nearly fifty years old. I am intelligent and from a loving family, but my low self-worth and addictions have led me to make self-sabotaging decisions over and over again. The sessions with my therapist have allowed me to stop beating myself up for those decisions. I am learning to be kinder to myself and to stop the cycle of guilt which then leads to worse decisions!”
“It’s not been an easy ride. Sometimes after the session I feel completely drained. That’s when I look forward to seeing everyone back at CENS, having a decent dinner and getting into my own room for a long sleep.”
“I am grateful for having my own room as I’ve been sofa surfing for years. It’s been really important for me to have some alone time to process what’s been brought up during the therapy session.”
“My hope for the future is that once I’ve had all six sessions, I will be in a better position to find a place of my own and keep putting one foot in front of the other. Thank you to CENS for offering me all the support you have. It’s really made a difference.“
