CHRISTMAS FUND
Extend a hand on Giving Tuesday
Emigrating from Russia as a five-year-old, Anna’s future was unknown. It became even more of a question mark when she lost both her parents by age 18. Anxiety and depression replaced the normal teenage feelings of anticipation and eagerness. It wasn’t until she began counselling that she could start to find her way forward.
“Many times in counselling I had those ‘aha’ moments,” Anna recalls. “Talking things through objectively allows you to come to your own conclusions.”
The skills and techniques she learned also set her on a path toward helping others. She’s studying psychology at university and hopes to complete a Master’s degree in counselling.
“In large part, that’s why I went down that road, because of some professionals in the field who helped me,” she says.
The Calgary Counselling Centre — one of the recipients of this year’s Herald Christmas Fund — offers professional, compassionate services for individuals, couples, parents, families, and youth dealing with emotional and social problems.
With the downturn in the city’s economy these past few years, the centre has seen demand for its help skyrocket. It is trying to meet that need and proceeds from the Calgary Herald Christmas Fund will allow it to focus programming on some of the most vulnerable: children. A new Urgent Access for Depressed Youth program will provide 2,500 to 3,500 new mental health counselling sessions children, youth and their families.
The children’s room at the Calgary Counselling Centre is a comforting place for youngsters in crisis with its books, dolls and toys.
In large part, that’s why I went down that road, because of some professionals in the field who helped me.