Michael is a counselor and trauma therapist, working with clients who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other sorts of difficulties in their life. His job involves working with individuals, couples, and whole families.
“I am hard of hearing in both ears,” he shares. “This has made my work particularly difficult with clients who are in distress and their voice modulation is not particularly being attended to. You can imagine how awkward it would be to ask a client to please speak up after sharing something vulnerable. Also, there are times where clients just are soft spoken. It has been very difficult repeatedly asking clients to speak up.”
His audiologist referred him to WorkBC Assistive Technology Services for funding for the hearing aids he needs at work. He applied and was quickly approved. He’s noticed a big difference on the job.
“I received hearing aids which has helped me tremendously, not to mention how beneficial it has been to my clients as well. This has facilitated my work, my communication, and the ease of flow in the therapeutic process. It is also reduced my noticing of tinnitus, and it has significantly reduced my headaches. I didn’t realize I was straining to hear so much,” he explains.
“My clients have reported that there is less frustration in the communication process as there are less interruptions with me asking them to speak up. I can also turn up the volume pick up for certain clients who are particularly soft spoken.”
Michael says he “100%” recommends WorkBC Assistive Technology Services to others in need.
“This technology and the access to it has dramatically changed my quality of life at work.”
WorkBC Assistive Technology Services is operated by Neil Squire. Assistive Technology Services are available to individuals who have a work-related barrier due to a disability or a functional limitation. This may include barriers related to traveling to and from the workplace.
Questions about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services? Need help applying? Contact us: 1-844-453-5506 or info-ats@workbc.ca
Please visit www.workbc-ats.ca (new window) for more information about WorkBC Assistive Technology Services.
