The Case of Algonquin College
The Process
- Initial access to counselling was changed from an intake appointment to a walk-in model.
- The college hired a group counsellor that facilitates groups on anxiety, depression, mindfulness, sleep, relationships and emotional regulation.
- Counsellors were trained in single-session therapy and Stepped Care 2.0.
- A new page on the college’s counselling services website was dedicated to online self-help apps and tools.
- The college purchased and implemented TAO Therapy Assistance Online technology.
- The college purchased and implemented Behavioral Health Monitor (BHM-20) outcome measurement technology, which all counsellors use on new tablets.
- The college continued to promote WellTrack interactive self-help therapy across all campuses.
- The college reviewed the whole service delivery model with Lean Six Sigma methodology in May 2018.
- Provincial tools such as BounceBack and Big White Wall were promoted.
The Results
Counselling budget hasn’t increased since 2008. With the same budget, the college saw:
- Twice as many appointments completed
- Twice as many students served
This makes the case for the change.
Find more information at Algonquin College Counselling Services.
