INDIVIDUAL COUNSELLING EDQ has continued to provide quality therapeutic services to individuals even during the disruptiveness of the COVID -19 pandemic. As a result, EDQ has flexibly responded to increased demand from clients who have accessed services via our Queensland Health funded, Medicare and NDIS counselling streams. Our one-on-one counselling services are firmly grounded in evidence-based models and techniques underpinned by a feminist practice framework. Individual therapy is client driven, respectful and works to empower the individual to develop meaning, insight, and skills to manage their eating issue/disorder and importantly, begin addressing underlying causes. We work in a holistic way, working closely with an individual’s treatment team. We also work collaboratively with clients to grow and develop their support networks and connecting clients with lived experience mentors and/or peer workers where possible. The team strives for continuous improvement and the delivery of high-quality services with all practitioners (from the different streams) undertaking regular clinical, peer and external supervision. Practitioners are proactive in keeping themselves updated with the latest research through attending national and international conferences, regular professional development, and sharing learnings through various team meetings. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, EDQ has routinely adapted to health protocols and mandated government lockdowns meaning many individual counselling sessions have been conducted via telehealth. Despite these unpredictable, and at times uncomfortable, changes both clients and staff have adapted well to ensure high-quality services and support have been provided with minimal interruption.
24
Client Feedback “Counselling has helped me work towards developing better coping strategies. Before seeing a counsellor through EDQ, I had no healthy coping strategies. Since having regular counselling through EDQ, I’ve developed some better ways to cope, without engaging in eating disorder behaviours. I’ve also developed a better understanding of myself, why I do some things, and what is more helpful for me.” “Coming to weekly therapy with EDQ for over a year has been offering me an amazing support; teaching me new tools and strategies, and changing my perspective on myself and the role of ED. I am so grateful I had this weekly support to debrief about my daily struggles and doubts but also share my little victories. I have finally started to allow myself to be kind to myself and self-compassionate; totally new to me and set more realistic goals. Today, I know I have got this, I can do it! I still have a long way to go but I am confident with myself and I have these supports within my life.”
Eating Disorders Queensland
