Counselling
Throughout our life cycle we are presented with challenges and stressors which can feel overwhelming when trying to manage without support. Counselling offers a safe and confidential space to support you in managing the difficulties in your life, and support your wellbeing. CASS offer trauma informed counselling to individuals, couples and families dealing with a range of issues such as; parenting a child with additional needs, anxiety and depression, work related issues, separation/divorce, fertility, grief and loss, self-esteem difficulties, communication and relationship issues, or sexuality and gender identity.
Cultural Support
“Australia’s population includes many people who were born overseas, have a parent born overseas or speak a variety of languages. Together, these groups are known as culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) communities.”(Australian Bureau of Statistics)
At CASS we understand that culture impacts on all aspects of a person’s life. Each CALD community, and each person within the community is different. We understand the importance of providing culturally appropriate support services and empathise the importance of not stereotyping. Consequently, we have cultural advisors from various backgrounds, including but not limited to Cambodian, Chinese and Middle East communities.
Our cultural advisors can work with agency staff to consider issues such; impact of gender on roles and responsibilities within the family, expectations around family involvement in decision making, and the significant impact that stigma, discrimination and trauma may have on the individual. As well as the importance of being patient when communicating and asking questions in a way that the person understands.
This knowledge and appreciation for difference is paramount in our work with children, young people, families, and the individuals we serve.
Our cultural advisors can work with agency staff to consider issues such; impact of gender on roles and responsibilities within the family, expectations around family involvement in decision making, and the significant impact that stigma, discrimination and trauma may have on the individual. As well as the importance of being patient when communicating and asking questions in a way that the person understands.
This knowledge and appreciation for difference is paramount in our work with children, young people, families, and the individuals we serve.
Aboriginal Cultural Consultation
The negative impacts of racial and economic disadvantage and a series of past government policies, including segregation, displacement, and separation of families has contributed to the hesitancy held by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people towards trusting government services and systems.
Discrimination, racism and lack of cultural understanding mean that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people still experience inequality and social injustice.
It is important to reflect without judgement before, during, and after interacting with people whose beliefs, values, world-views and experiences may differ from your own. More importantly, a non-Aboriginal worker should seek advice and help from local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander staff.
At CASS, our Aboriginal Cultural Advisor, Susan Biggs (identifying with the Aniwan and Gumbaynggirr people of Northern NSW), is a wealth of support and knowledge within this area. We are continuously grateful for her service and support in ensuring that CASS is culturally appropriate and sensitive to the needs of Indigenous people.
Diversity - Accountability
Responsiveness - Innovation - Inclusiveness
Responsiveness - Innovation - Inclusiveness