This conference was organized in honor of Alice Charlier. Psychologist for more than 30 years at Reception, she was also president of its administrative body, from 2018 until her death on August 8. Unanimously appreciated, the clinical psychologist is described as “humane, humble professional”by Michèle Quinet-Le Docte, who has since become acting president of the administration committee. An acting president who is also full of praise for the team, made up of two secretaries, two social workers, a psychology assistant, eight psychologists and a psychiatrist. “They are truly amazing.”
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Because it is these 14 professionals who today keep this center alive, which was created on February 18, 1974. “It gradually developed thanks to support from the Walloon Region, notably in 1975 and 1982”continues Vinciane Liesens. 1999 is another key date in the evolution of the center. “At that time, a specific initiative dedicated to perpetrators of sexual offenses, the AICS team, was created. This made it possible to strengthen our care offer.”
Accessibility of care as a priority
Today, Reception offers a whole range of care, ranging from group therapy to psychiatric care, including psychosocial support and supportive therapies. But whatever the “service” offered, Reception above all ensures the accessibility of care. “Our schedules are overloaded and we receive a lot of requests. But we absolutely want to remain kind and have concern for people seeking help.” Because, despite all the best wishes of staff, it can sometimes take a long time before an appointment can be made. “This is why we want to support the person as best as possible from the moment they request help.” And above all, “We are committed to maintaining the quality of care, despite the lack of resources at our disposal.”
“Requests for support are increasing terribly”
A challenge that has only grown in recent years. “The demand has been high for a long time. But since last year, we have really seen the repercussions of Covid on different generations. We have all been isolated and that has awakened certain discomforts and certain difficulties.” Brief, “requests for support are increasing terribly”.
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Because there was Covid, but not only that. “Generally speaking, the societal context is very insecure and anxiety-provoking. Precariousness is increasing at all levels. Whether from a financial, psychological, relational point of view…” Hence the importance of being able to count on mental health services, such as Reception.
