Purpose / Objectives | Services | How does it work? | Who Benefits?Credit Counselling
CREDIT COUNSELING
Credit Counselling Walk In Clinic (see below)
Primary Functions
- money management coaching
- the arrangement of Debt Management Programs
- and the promotion of Consumer Credit Education
We are an accredited member of the Ontario Association of Credit Counselling Services
Purpose
A consumer education, coaching and repayment program designed to assist individuals and families to acquire the skills necessary for financial stability thereby alleviating the stress of over-indebtedness and promoting emotional well-being.
Objectives
Resolution
- To help clients to resolve debt problems
- To help improve clients’ financial status
- To reduce or eliminate detrimental effects of over-indebtedness
- To contribute to increased self-esteem
- To reduce the stress associated with financial problems
Money Management Coaching
- To help clients to improve money management practices and improve knowledge in the use of credit.
- To help clients to develop realistic budgets
- To help clients to implement a money management system
- To improve the client’s ability to set and meet financial goals
Public Education
- To provide preventative education to the general public in money management and the wise use of credit
Services
To achieve its Credit Counselling objectives, the agency offers the following services:
Counselling
- counselling and support concerning budgetary, credit and/or debt problems and, when appropriate, referrals
- money management counselling and education (help with budgeting, consumer and credit education) either individually or in a group as needed
Counselling Involving a Third Party
- elements of money management counselling as needed
- intervention with third parties such as a creditor, other community agencies, courts, etc.
Debt Management Programs (DMPs)
- elements of money management counselling as needed
- liquidation of debts according to a pro-rating scheme arranged and administered by the agency
How Does Our Service Work?
Together we will assess your current financial situation and discuss options which may include:
- budget & money management
- advocacy
- mediation with Creditors
After discussing your options, you may be able to manage for yourself. However, you may also choose to have your Counsellor intervene with your Creditors on your behalf.
If you decide to enter a Debt Management Program, you will meet with your Counsellor at designated intervals to learn how to handle financial responsibilities effectively.
Who Benefits?
The Applicant:
- reduced family stress
- satisfaction of meeting your obligations
The Creditor:
- reductions of losses
- customers who become better money managers
The Employer:
- improved productivity from the employee
- less paperwork due to garnishee
Click here to contact a counsellor
Credit Counselling Walk In Clinic
Every Wednesday at 447 Main Street East, Suite 201
2:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. inclusive
The Credit Counselling Walk-In Clinic provides drop-in support for immediate financial issues.
We provide specific counselling on credit and debt issues. Our Credit Counsellors practice solution-focused financial counselling.
The clinic works on a first-come, first-serve basis. When accessing the Walk-In Clinic, you will be assigned to the next available counsellor.
Your session will last approximately 45 minutes.
Bring to your session: Statements of debt balances, a pay stub and a list of household expenses.
Fee: Sliding Scale
Service provided by:
OACCS Certified Credit Counsellors,
AFCPE Accredited Financial Counsellors
Qualified Insolvency Counsellors