SHARE Family and Community Services is a multi-faceted, not-for-profit organization dedicated to supporting TriCities residents facing various challenges, including financial hardship, mental health struggles, aging-related issues, disabilities, newcomer adjustment, and parenting concerns. James Musgrave, Director of Counselling Programs and Services at SHARE, provides insight into the free counselling services available to residents.

By Nancy Furness
Local Journalism Initiative

James oversees SHARE’s free, multilingual mental health programs. “Our goal is to remove barriers and make it easier for people to access the support they need,” he explains.

Support services include legal advocacy programs focused on poverty law (financial issues and accessing resources), family law (court system navigation), and tenant advocacy (eviction prevention).

While “anytime is a good time to access counselling,” James encourages individuals to seek help when they feel overwhelmed by stress, substance use, or other challenges. Self-referrals are accepted for youth and adult substance use programs, gambling addiction counselling, and specialized support for families, Farsi-speakers, and refugees. The child and family program also offers crucial assistance aimed at helping families stay together or reunite.

Counselling services for any mental health issue are also accessible through doctor referrals via the Primary Care Networks in partnership with Fraser Health. “We developed this program because doctors realized that many patients seeking to discuss mental health concerns were using a significant amount of their time, though doctors might not be the best professionals to handle these conversations,” James notes.

Recognizing the need for help is a sign of strength, James emphasizes. “Counselling is about relationships and conversations. The counsellor’s primary role is to listen, understand the issue, and help set achievable goals.”

With the holiday season often bringing additional stress, James advises managing expectations and embracing imperfection to reduce pressure. For immediate assistance, the Fraser Health Crisis Line (604-951-8855), Provincial Suicide Support Line (1-800-784-2433), and National Crisis Line (988) are available 24/7.