You don't have to have a "big life-threatening problem" to seek the support of a skilled counsellor, says NZ Counsellors Association president Sarah Maindonald.
"It doesn't have to be a big life-threatening problem to ring up and have a conversation. There are many people living alone … or they might feel alone. And to reach out and ask to talk through something with somebody is a really healthy thing to do," she tells Todd Zaner.
Photo: Ron Loach / Pexels
Sarah Maindonald, Christchurch-based counsellor and president of the NZ Association of Counsellors Photo: YouTube screenshot
The historical influence of the "stiff upper lip" mentality has made it hard for New Zealanders to be comfortable with showing vulnerability, says the Christchurch-based counsellor, but mental health awareness has changed the game somewhat.
A skilled counsellor provides not only the opportunity to talk through feelings of distress but also helps people develop their own coping skills and strengths, Sarah Maindonald says.
"More and more it's becoming a normal thing to do, rather than something people feel a bit embarrassed to do."
The words 'counselling' and 'therapy' are used a bit lightly, Maindonald says, but you want someone with specialist training.
She recommends that before you book in with a counsellor, ensure you know about the costs involved, their confidentiality practices – particularly around the risk of harm – and their complaints process.
In the first session, the person should listen to you, try to get to know you and begin to form a relationship.
Find a lot more information on what to expect with counselling and talk therapy.
Where to get help:
If it's an emergency and you feel like you or someone else is at risk, call 111.
Ask your doctor about referring you to mental health services in your area.
Free call or text 1737 - New Zealand's "well-used and sometimes overwhelmed" free counselling helpline is really good for a " brief intervention," Maindonald says. Their trained counsellors may also be able to suggest places to access counselling in your area.
ACC - Aotearoa's accident compensation corporation offers free counselling for people who've experienced sexual abuse or assault. (Their website has a therapist directory)
EAP - Some New Zealand employers offer confidential counselling sessions via this provider
Other phone services:
Lifeline: 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357
Suicide Crisis Helpline: 0508 828 865 / 0508 TAUTOKO (24/7). This is a service for people who may be thinking about suicide, or those who are concerned about family or friends.
Depression Helpline: 0800 111 757 (24/7) or text 4202
Samaritans: 0800 726 666 (24/7)
Youthline: 0800 376 633 (24/7) or free text 234 (8am-12am), or email talk@youthline.co.nz
MATES in construction: 0800 111 315
What's Up: online chat (3pm-10pm) or 0800 WHATSUP / 0800 9428 787 helpline (12pm-10pm weekdays, 3pm-11pm weekends)
Kidsline (ages 5-18): 0800 543 754 (24/7)
Rural Support Trust Helpline: 0800 787 254
Healthline: 0800 611 116
Rainbow Youth: (09) 376 4155
