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CADSonline helping you make the connection
Please note: CADSonline is no longer available from January 1 2009.
Wednesday, 13 February 2008.
Originally from express article 13 February 2008
By Di from Auckland Community Alcohol and Drug Services (CADS)
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| Di from CADS on 'CADSonline helping you make the connection'. |
You know us folks at CADS offer way more than your traditional counselling. Amongst other things, we also offer, home based detox, home visits for the elderly, psychiatric assessments, many different types of groups and one of our latest innovations is online support.
It is called CADSonline and consists of interactive, online, support groups. It means that people can talk with others in real time, from the privacy and anonymity of their own computer. Though you can't be seen by any of the group members, you can see, hear and interact with the counsellor at all times; and it's up to you when you are heard by other group members.
I think it is ideal for us queer folks, as often our privacy is essential, and we (as a rule) seem to be trend setters when it comes to new and innovative solutions. I reckon a lot of us would have a computer with internet connection at home or at least have access to one. The software is PC and Apple compatible.
Other technical requirements are:
- Online access - Broadband is ideal but not necessary (unless it is a Mac), a standard dial up connection will usually work fine.
- Windows 2000 or better (e.g. Windows XP).
- CPU P350mhz or greater
- 128Mb memory and 40Mb free space on Hard drive.
- Sound Card.
As with all CADS services it is free, it is really simple to set up and we supply headphones and a microphone. Unfortunately, the service is only available in the greater Auckland area, e.g. those areas covered by Waitemata, Auckland or Counties-Manukau DHBs. With a bit of luck and lots of good management this could well change in the future!
CADSonline groups currently (Feb 2008) available are:
- 12 step Facilitation Group
An abstinence focused group that runs once per week (every Wednesday night 6:30pm to 7:30pm) for 8 weeks. The group is open meaning you can join at any time. Clients need to be abstinent for the duration of the group and ideally should have had a period of abstinence before starting the group.- Continuing Care Group
This is also an open group so you can join any time. It is the follow-up from the 12 step programme (or equivalent), and so requires abstinence. It runs every week Thursday from 6:30 7:30pm.- Family and Friends Support Group
If you are concerned about someone elses use of alcohol and other drugs, we have a support group, for family, friends and significant others. It provides up to date information and a chance to talk to others who are in the same boat. It runs every Monday from 6.30 7.30pm and is open and ongoing.
Watch this space for a Queer Support Group online!!
If you would like to know more about CADSonline or you would just like to talk about your own or someone else's alcohol or other drug use, or if you'd like more information, contact CADS on 845 1818 or www.cads.org.nz or if you live outside Auckland contact Alcohol and Drug Helpline 0800 787 797.
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