Counselling
Counselling is provided to RNZFB members without charge. Sessions can be held at the member's home or at a RNZFB office.
Vision loss, whether sudden or gradual, means that the individual may face an unfamiliar and insecure situation. What always seemed so normal in everyday life is suddenly not normal any more.
Coming to terms with vision loss typically involves a whole spectrum of emotions. The support of one of the RNZFB's counsellors can assist members through this process.
If you are the parent or caregiver of a blind, deafblind or vision-impaired child, the RNZFB also offers Child and Family Social Work support.
The counsellor's role
The role of the counsellor is first and foremost to listen: something very important has been taken away and the feelings related to loss of vision are often feelings of grief.
Counsellors and members explore these feelings and concerns in a safe and respectful environment. Together, they find a way through.
The relationship between the counsellor and the member is one of trust. Confidentiality is a big part of that trust relationship and is respected by the counsellor at all times.
RNZFB counsellors follow the Code of Ethics of the New Zealand Association of Social Workers or the New Zealand Association of Counsellors.
Contact a counsellor
RNZFB counsellors can be contacted by email: counsellors