Who We Are

We provide counselling and support to people who need it when they need it.

CRISIS was established in 1996 by jean Cumming as a Registered Charity in response to the need for support, guidance and counselling she saw when employed within the NHS. She realised there was no early intervention services available only acute services with people struggling, often with limited chance of robust recovery.

This vision has been the driving force as the organisation grew and spread across West and Central Scotland. We work with individuals; public & private sector; a range of Health, Social Care and Education partners as well as many other voluntary organisations.

We offer counselling therapy that is not time limited or geographically compromised and give everyone the opportunity to explore problems that may be causing long term distress. Sometimes they have been submerged for so long that when people first come to us they may be discussing one issue and over time explore more deep rooted issues that are contributing to chronic anxiety or depression. Equally, we offer a speedy response to this who have suffered trauma and loss.

Since that time we have been providing a service that has met the needs of over 40,000 people and the formal feedback and notes of thanks we receive tell us that they have benefited from the support we have offered in aiding them to better mental health and confidence.

CRISIS owes a great deal to the vast number of volunteers who throughout this time have formed the backbone of the organisation. All of them are interviewed and selected by Jean and a partnership is formed that endures often over many years. Volunteers begin with a placement that provides them an opportunity to graduate and then the road to accreditation with the hours required to complete the academic course they are studying. I return, CRISIS benefits from the many skills and commitment they bring.

All our staff and volunteers whether paid or voluntary, operate under the guidelines defined by the BACP & COSCA (Code of Ethics & Practice) and under peer supervision by the Senior Counsellors and clinical supervision with their independent external supervisor.

We are registered Health & Social Care agency with Disclosure Scotland and everyone is subject to a PVG check that helps to ensure that those who have regular contact with children and protected adults, through paid and unpaid work, do not have a known history of harmful behaviours.

Post-counselling evaluation systems are in place for monitoring and evaluation of the confidential services provided to our clients.

Post formal qualification, many counsellors remain with CRISIS, offering their time voluntarily and see clients within our centre in Erskine or delivery elsewhere.

CRISIS is supported by a volunteer Board of Directors who come together regularly with their experience in clinical counselling; financial knowledge; business development as well as experience of Health, Public Sector and the Military. They work together to ensure the smooth operation of this remarkable organisation.

Thanks go to RBS & Erskine Music Media Studio for providing our videos for the website.