Credit Counselling

Purpose / Objectives | Services | How does it work? | Who Benefits?

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.

back to top

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

back to top

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.

back to top

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 garnishees

Click here to contact a counsellor

back to top