Services available in Oamaru and Palmerston

Individual Counselling​

Everyone has difficult experiences or feelings, and it can be tough to deal with them alone. Work one-on-one with a trained professional in a confidential and safe environment.

Couples Counselling

Get help working through a difficult time in your relationship, or navigating important life changes and decisions together, with the help of a trained counsellor.

Family Therapy

Family support offers families information, guidance and support to work together to improve communication and discuss issues. This may be provided alongside individual counselling. 

Frequently asked questions

What kind of counselling do you provide?

We provide counselling for all kinds of people of all ages.

​This includes:

• Individual counselling
• Couple counselling
• Family therapy and support​

What can I Expect when I contact you?

When you contact us we will ask you a few questions and go through what is called an initial intake assessment. The assessment is a broad conversation about areas of your life that you might be seeking support for from counselling, and any sources of strength you have currently. 

​The next person to get in touch will be your counsellor who will book the first appointment with you directly. 

What kinds of things can you help with? 

Our approach to counselling is tailored to each individual. We are client-centred and strengths based. 

Our team of counsellors specialise in a range of issues, including:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Relationships and family
• Bullying
• Sexual abuse and violence
• Identity and purpose in life
• ​Self-harm and suicidal feelings or thoughts
• Drug and alcohol concerns
• Self-esteem and confidence
• Communication skills
• Life transitions or change
• Grief and loss
• Loneliness and isolation
• Anger management
• Sexual orientation or gender identity (LGBTQI)
• Body image or weight concerns
• Eating disorders
• Mental health issues 
• Emotional or psychological abuse
• Physical abuse and violence
• Domestic violence
• Financial stress or unemployment
• Miscarriage support and pregnancy support
• Post-traumatic stress

What techniques are your counsellors trained in?

Our teams are trained in a number of therapeutic techniques including: 

• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (including Trauma Focused CBT)
• Dialectic Behavioural Therapy
• Narrative therapy
• Gestalt therapy
• Sand tray and interactive drawing therapies
•  EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)

How long until I can see a counsellor?

The current average time from referral to first session is 8 – 9 days. BRIAN LOWE TO UPDATE

How much will it cost?

The initial assessment for intake to counselling is free of charge. Contributions to the cost of the other counselling services are determined on a sliding scale ranging from $20 to $120 per hour.

​Please let us know if you need financial support to see a therapist; we have a range of options we can explore with you and we don’t want money to be a barrier to seeking help.

Where will i see my counsellor?

Oamaru
Youthline Office 
316 Thames Hwy, Oamaru North

​Palmerston
Otago University Students Association Student Support Centre
117 District Rd, Palmerston

Book an initial assessment

To learn more about our services or to book an initial assessment, fill in the form below or contact us at ylof2f@youthline.co.nz or 03 477 2461.

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Our locations

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Youthline Waitaki
​316 Thames Highway
Oamaru

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East Otago Health Centre
117 District Rd
​Palmerston