Palmerston North

๐Ÿง 

Mental Health and Counselling

Support services for mental well-being, including therapy, counselling, and crisis help.

Sections

1. Types of Mental Health and Counselling Services Available

Palmerston North provides a variety of mental health and counselling services tailored to different needs, including:

a. General Counselling Services

  • For individuals, couples, and families dealing with stress, relationship issues, grief, or life transitions.
  • Services are offered by private practitioners, non-profit organizations, and community centers.

b. Mental Health Support

  • For individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, or other mental health challenges.
  • Includes therapy, psychiatric assessments, and medication management.

c. Youth and Child Counselling

  • Specialized services for children and teenagers dealing with bullying, school stress, family issues, or mental health concerns.
  • Often provided through schools, youth centers, or specialized clinics.

d. Crisis and Emergency Mental Health Services

  • For individuals in immediate distress or at risk of harm.
  • Includes 24/7 crisis helplines and emergency response teams.

e. Addiction and Substance Abuse Counselling

  • Support for individuals struggling with alcohol, drug, or gambling addictions.
  • Includes one-on-one counselling, group therapy, and rehabilitation programs.

f. Culturally Specific Services

  • Tailored support for Mฤori, Pasifika, and other ethnic communities, incorporating cultural values and practices into therapy.

g. Workplace and Academic Counselling

  • Services for employees and students dealing with stress, burnout, or mental health challenges related to work or study.

2. Key Facilities and Centers in Palmerston North

a. Public Mental Health Services

  • MidCentral District Health Board (DHB) Mental Health Services
    • Provides free mental health services for those with moderate to severe mental health conditions.
    • Includes community mental health teams, crisis intervention, and inpatient care.
    • Location: Palmerston North Hospital, 50 Ruahine Street.
    • Contact: 0800 653 357 (Crisis Line, 24/7).

b. Non-Profit and Community Organizations

  • Manline

    • Specializes in counselling for men, including support for mental health, relationships, and trauma.
    • Location: 36 Walding Street.
    • Contact: (06) 358 1211.
    • Cost: Sliding scale based on income.

  • Youthline Central North Island

    • Offers free or low-cost counselling and support for young people.
    • Contact: 0800 376 633 (24/7 Helpline) or text 234.

  • ACROSS Te Kotahitanga o te Wairua

    • Provides family and youth counselling, parenting support, and social services.
    • Location: 294A Church Street.
    • Contact: (06) 356 7486.

  • Women's Refuge

    • Support for women and children experiencing domestic violence, including counselling and safe housing.
    • Contact: 0800 733 843 (24/7 Helpline).

c. Private Counsellors and Psychologists

  • Numerous private practitioners are available in Palmerston North, offering services for a wide range of mental health concerns.
  • You can find registered professionals through the New Zealand Association of Counsellors (NZAC) or the New Zealand Psychologists Board.
  • Cost: Typically ranges from NZD $100โ€“$200 per session, though some offer sliding scales or subsidies.

d. Addiction Services

  • Alcohol and Drug Helpline

    • Provides free, confidential support and referrals for addiction issues.
    • Contact: 0800 787 797 (24/7).

  • Palmerston North Salvation Army Bridge Programme

    • Offers residential and outpatient addiction treatment.
    • Location: 431 Church Street.
    • Contact: (06) 355 6070.

e. University and School Counselling

  • Massey University Student Counselling Service

    • Free counselling for enrolled students.
    • Location: Massey University Campus, Tennent Drive.
    • Contact: (06) 350 5533.

  • School Guidance Counsellors

    • Available in most secondary schools for students needing support.

3. Costs and Subsidies

  • Public Services: Free for New Zealand residents and citizens through the public health system (MidCentral DHB). Non-residents may incur costs.
  • Non-Profit Organizations: Often free or low-cost, with some offering sliding scale fees based on income.
  • Private Practitioners: Typically NZD $100โ€“$200 per session. Some may offer reduced rates for students or those with financial hardship.
  • Subsidies:
    • WINZ (Work and Income New Zealand): May provide financial assistance for counselling if you qualify.
    • ACC (Accident Compensation Corporation): Covers counselling for trauma or abuse-related issues.
    • Employee Assistance Programmes (EAP): Many workplaces offer free counselling sessions for employees.

4. How to Access These Services

  • Self-Referral: Contact a service provider directly to book an appointment.
  • GP Referral: Visit a general practitioner (GP) for a referral to public or private mental health services.
  • Helplines: Use 24/7 helplines for immediate support or guidance on accessing services.
  • Online Directories:
    • Healthpoint (www.healthpoint.co.nz): Lists mental health services in Palmerston North.
    • NZAC (www.nzac.org.nz): Find registered counsellors.

5. Cultural and Practical Considerations

  • Mฤori and Pasifika Services:

    • Many services in Palmerston North incorporate tikanga Mฤori (Mฤori customs) and holistic approaches, such as Te Whare Tapa Whฤ (a Mฤori health model focusing on physical, mental, spiritual, and family well-being).
    • Examples include services provided by Te Tihi o Ruahine Whฤnau Ora Alliance.

  • Language Support:

    • Some services offer interpreters or multilingual counsellors for non-English speakers. Check with the provider in advance.

  • Confidentiality:

    • All counselling and mental health services in New Zealand are bound by strict confidentiality laws, ensuring your privacy.

  • Transportation:

    • Palmerston North is a compact city with good public transport options. Most services are centrally located and accessible by bus, bike, or car.

  • Community Support:

    • Palmerston North has a welcoming and inclusive community. Many support groups and workshops are available for newcomers to connect with others and build a support network.

6. Emergency Contacts

  • Mental Health Crisis Line: 0800 653 357 (24/7).
  • Lifeline New Zealand: 0800 543 354 (24/7).
  • Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7).
  • Police or Ambulance: Dial 111 for emergencies.

By utilizing these resources, you can access the mental health and counselling support you need in Palmerston North. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask!