About NSLAP

What is the Lawyers Assistance Program?

The Nova Scotia Lawyers Assistance Program or “NSLAP” is an informational, confidential referral and short-term counselling service for practising members of the legal profession, their staff and families who may be experiencing health or personal problems. Our provider, Homewood Health™, offers counselling services for a full range of personal, family or life events and issues including, but not limited to, financial concerns, family, child and eldercare issues, communication problems, career development, health and fitness issues, psychological and emotional disorders, addiction, stress, depression or trauma. It is anticipated that most issues will be dealt with in three to five counselling sessions.

In keeping with the connection between a healthy mind and a healthy body, and in addition to the various levels of psychological services provided, the Lawyers Assistance Program now includes wellness programs either personally or online, as a series of health questionnaires and information to help you develop your Personal Wellness Plan, medical information, a variety of e-courses and other tools designed to help you take charge of your health and well-being. Members also have access to Plan Smart Lifestyle and Specialty Counselling Services designed to provide caregiving, life planning and health management services.

Access to these services is available on the NSLAP home page (just follow the link), or visit the Homeweb site directly: https://www.homeweb.ca/ Please note that ‘NSLAP’ is your “company” name when you register. The Nova Scotia Lawyers Assistance Program is provided through the Lawyers Insurance Association of Nova Scotia.

When should I consider contacting the Lawyers Assistance Program?

You might consider contacting the Lawyers Assistance Program for counselling if you feel as though your problems, or those of someone you know, are becoming overwhelming and out of control. Some symptoms that can appear include mood swings, sleeplessness, lack of appetite, poor concentration, apathy or anger.

Homewood Health™ employs health professionals who are Masters- or PhD-level counsellors, chosen for their extensive experience in dealing with a variety of psychological and health issues. Their counsellors have received specialized training in assessment and counselling services and who have met the requirements for registration with their respective professional governing body.

It is generally acknowledged that the sooner assistance begins, the more effective it will be.

You can access the online health and wellness resources at any time. Those resources are available to help you know that you are doing all you can to be your healthiest. Through a combination of expert advice, support and resource material, the online resources are available to help whether you need to find a nursing home for an aging parent who lives on the other side of the country, obtain help getting your finances under control, receive advice on how to raise a child or develop a long-range plan for ensuring a worry-free retirement.

Who will I speak with when I contact the Lawyers Assistance Program?

You will speak to a professional intake counsellor from Homewood (both official languages are available). You will have to tell them you are calling for the Nova Scotia Lawyers’ Assistance Program (or NSLAP). In an emergency, face-to-face consultation can be arranged within hours. Instant support is always available over the phone. Internet and telephone counselling are also available.