Accessibility Statement

Our commitment to creating an inclusive therapeutic environment for all clients.

Last Updated: April 2, 2025

Our Commitment to Accessibility

At Get Guidance, I am committed to ensuring that my counselling services and website are accessible to everyone, including individuals with disabilities. I believe that everyone deserves access to quality mental health support in a way that respects their dignity, independence, and specific needs.

This accessibility statement outlines the steps I take to make my services and digital content accessible, as well as how clients can request accommodations or provide feedback on accessibility issues.

Website Accessibility

I am committed to making this website accessible and usable for all visitors, following Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) 2.1 Level AA standards. Some of the accessibility features of this website include:

  • Semantic HTML structure with proper headings and landmarks for screen reader navigation
  • Sufficient color contrast between text and background elements
  • Text alternatives for non-text content
  • Keyboard-navigable interface for those who cannot use a mouse
  • Responsive design that adapts to different screen sizes and devices
  • Clear, simple language wherever possible
  • Forms with proper labels and error identification

Limitations

While I strive to ensure that all content on this website is accessible, some limitations may exist:

  • PDF documents and other downloadable resources may not be fully accessible, but I am working to improve this
  • Third-party content or applications linked from this website are not under my control

I am continuously working to improve the accessibility of this website. If you encounter any issues or have suggestions for improvement, please contact me using the information provided below.

Physical Office Accessibility

My counselling office is designed to accommodate clients with various accessibility needs:

  • Building Access: The office building is wheelchair accessible with ramp access at the main entrance and elevators to all floors.
  • Parking: Designated accessible parking spaces are available close to the building entrance.
  • Restrooms: Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are available on each floor.
  • Service Animals: Service animals are welcome in all areas of the office.
  • Sensory Considerations: The office environment is designed to be sensory-friendly with adjustable lighting, comfortable seating options, and minimal background noise.
  • Fragrance-Free Policy: To accommodate individuals with chemical sensitivities, I maintain a fragrance-free office environment.

Counselling Service Accommodations

I am committed to providing adaptable counselling services that meet the unique needs of all clients:

Communication Accommodations

  • Written materials in alternative formats (large print, electronic formats)
  • Use of plain language in both verbal and written communications
  • Flexibility in communication methods (email, text, phone, video)
  • Support for ASL interpretation (with advance notice)
  • Visual aids and supportive materials to supplement verbal communication

Session Format Accommodations

  • Session Length: Flexibility in session duration to accommodate attention span, fatigue, or processing needs
  • Session Frequency: Adjustable scheduling to meet individual needs
  • Breaks: Comfort breaks during longer sessions as needed
  • Virtual Sessions: Online counselling options for those who cannot attend in-person sessions due to mobility, transportation, or health concerns
  • Assistance: Support for caregivers or support persons to attend sessions when beneficial

Therapeutic Approach Adaptations

  • Individualized pacing of therapy to accommodate different learning and processing styles
  • Multiple modes of engagement (verbal, visual, written, creative) to match individual preferences and strengths
  • Adaptations to therapeutic techniques to address unique cognitive, emotional, or physical needs
  • Use of assistive technology in therapy when helpful

Financial Accessibility

I am committed to making mental health services financially accessible:

  • Sliding scale fee options based on financial need
  • Assistance with insurance claims and documentation
  • Information about community resources and low-cost alternatives when appropriate
  • Flexible payment arrangements when needed

Requesting Accommodations

If you require any accommodations not mentioned above, or have specific accessibility needs, please don’t hesitate to contact me before your first appointment. I am committed to working collaboratively to find solutions that will make your counselling experience comfortable, accessible, and beneficial.

All accommodation requests are handled with respect and confidentiality, and I will do my best to implement reasonable accommodations promptly.

Contact for Accessibility Requests or Feedback

Email: accessibility@getguidance.com

Phone: (555) 123-4567

Please allow up to 2 business days for a response to accommodation requests.

Continuous Improvement

I am committed to the ongoing improvement of accessibility within my practice. This includes:

  • Regular accessibility audits of my website and services
  • Staff training on accessibility and inclusion
  • Incorporating client feedback into accessibility improvements
  • Staying informed about best practices and new technologies that can enhance accessibility

Your feedback on accessibility is valuable and welcome. If you encounter barriers or have suggestions for improvement, please share them using the contact information provided above.