We know that every young person’s mental health journey is unique. Some young people may be going through really challenging times, while others simply need someone to talk to about what’s going on in their life right now. Our Youth Counsellors are here to meet young people where they are, helping them make decisions, and empowering them to reach their goals.
We’ll chat with them about whatever is on their mind and help them make sense of what might be going on for them. Together, we’ll work with each young person to help them understand their feelings and build the skills to help them navigate mental health challenges.
Counselling doesn’t have to just be sitting in a room and talking – we can help in different ways, depending on what feels best for you. This might look like going for a walk or creating a piece of art.
We offer counselling in-person – at one of our Youth Focus or headspace locations and at a number of schools across WA –online, or over the phone. We can also support young people in group programs so they can get support in a way that suits them.
During their session with a Youth Counsellor, young people may also be referred to other support programs at Youth Focus, like Work and Study Support and Mentoring programs, to help them move closer to their goals.
What will counselling help me with? (common concerns)
Counselling can help address a number of concerns or issues, big or small, young people may be tackling in their life. We’re here to listen and support them with anything they may be feeling. We can yarn about;
- Feeling sad, depressed or anxious
- Navigating relationships i.e. with family, friends or intimate relationships
- Thoughts or feelings that might be bothering you
- Gender and sexuality
- School, study or work stress
- Dealing with difficult emotions
- Problems with alcohol or other substances
- Cultural identity
Everyone is different, so we don’t have a one-size-fits-all approach. Our Youth Counsellors will work with each young person to learn what they’re hoping to get out of the session, and how they want to be supported.
Reach out to us in a way that feels comfortable to you to start the conversation.
Youth Focus is not a crisis support service. If a young person or you support, need urgent assistance or someone to speak to right now, see emergency support services. If you, or someone close to you, is in immediate danger call 000.
Who will I see/speak to?
When young people access a Youth Focus service they will be speaking to a qualified and registered mental health Youth Counsellor who will listen to, support and guide them to work through challenges and concerns they’re experiencing.
We will let them guide the conversation so we can address the issues that are most important to them, in that moment.
It’s a safe and confidential space where young people can chat about whatever is on their mind.
Everything that young people share with a Youth Counsellor is kept private and confidential. That means nothing young people say can be passed onto anyone else without their permission, unless we have concerns about their safety or the safety of someone else.
We have a responsibility to keep young people safe, so there may be times when we need to speak to another person or service about their situation. Where possible, we will be open with them that our concerns have reached a point where we need to involve others.