What
is the Lawyers' Assistance Program?
The Nova Scotia Lawyers' Assistance Program or “LAP” is an informational, confidential referral and short-term counselling service for members of the legal profession, their staff and families who may be experiencing health or personal problems. Our provider, Homewood Human Solutions™, offers counselling services for a full range of personal, family or life events and issues including, but not limited to, financial concerns, family, child and eldercare issues, communication problems, career development, health and fitness issues, psychological and emotional disorders, addiction, stress, depression or trauma. It is anticipated that most issues will be dealt with in three to five counselling sessions.
In keeping with the connection between a healthy mind and a healthy body, and in addition to the various levels of psychological services provided, the Lawyers' Assistance Program now includes wellness programs either personally or online, as a series of health questionnaires and information to help you develop your Personal Wellness Plan, medical information, a variety of e-courses and other tools designed to help you take charge of your health and well-being. Members also have access to Work Life Balance – Plan Smart ™ Services designed to provide care giving, life planning and health management services.
Access to these services is available on our home page - just follow the link. Access is also available on the Homewood Human Solutions™ website at www.homewoodhumansolutions.com (choose 'Login' at the top of the page). Please note that LAP is your “company” name when you register.
The Lawyers' Assistance Program is provided through the Lawyers' Insurance Association of Nova Scotia.
Why
do Nova Scotia Lawyers need an assistance program?
Like anyone, lawyers who experience emotional or personal difficulties may be unable to resolve their problems on their own, and my find that their personal happiness, work performance or physical health is affected. Through the Lawyers' Assistance Program, they will receive a broad range of resources and assistance to find satisfactory solutions to their problems.
When
should I consider contacting the Lawyers' Assistance Program?
You might consider contacting the Lawyers' Assistance Program for counselling if you feel as though your problems, or those of someone you know, are becoming overwhelming and out of control. Some symptoms that can appear include mood swings, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, poor concentration, apathy or anger.
Homewood Human Solutions™ employs health professionals who are Masters- or PhD-level counsellors, chosen for their extensive experience in dealing with a variety of psychological and health issues. Their counsellors have received specialized training in assessment and counselling services and who have met the requirements for registration with their respective professional governing body.
It is generally acknowledged that the sooner assistance begins, the more effective it will be.
You can access the online health and wellness resources at any time. Those resources are available to help you know that you are doing all you can to be your healthiest. Through a combination of expert advice, support and resource material, the online resources are available to help whether you need to find a nursing home for an aging parent who lives on the other side of the country, obtain help getting your finances under control, receive advice on how to raise a child or develop a long-range plan for ensuring a worry-free retirement.
How
can I access the Lawyers' Assistance Program services?
To get assistance, call 1 866 299 1299 from anywhere in Nova Scotia, 24 hours a day. You may be asked to identify yourself, but this information will be kept confidential.
Remember that when you access the online resources, your “company” name is LAP.
Will
my call be confidential?
Information is not provided to anyone or any organization without your permission. The issue of confidentiality can be discussed with the professional intake counsellors to establish limits for support and protection. Your right to privacy is respected and strictly observed.
Who will I speak with when I contact the Lawyers' Assistance Program?
You will speak to a professional intake counsellor from Human Solutions (both official
languages are available). You will have to tell them you are calling for the Lawyers’
Assistance Program (or LAP). In an emergency, face-to-face consultation can be
arranged within hours. Instant support is always available over the phone. Internet and
telephone counselling are also available.
