FAQs

At Āwhina Whānau Services, we provide complimentary counselling services for whānau and tangata whai ora (tamariki, rangatahi and adults). Our commitment to accessibility means we do not charge for our services.

For sessions with tamariki and rangatahi, the typical duration ranges from 30 to 45 minutes. Sessions for whānau and tangata whai ora can extend up to an hour.

At present, our appointments are fully booked. However, you can submit an enquiry here, and we will contact you with information on available options.

You can submit an enquiry, and we will do our best to provide advice and support for you. We have information about a wide range of other support services we may be able to provide to you.

We operate in both Heretaunga and Ahuriri. While appointments are required for our Ahuriri location, our Heretaunga tari welcomes walk-ins for enquiries and additional information. For appointments, please refer to our enquiries page. However, feel free to visit our Heretaunga tari for any assistance.

For individuals under 16 years of age, parental consent is required for both in-school services and individual counselling sessions. However, information that is disclosed during your sessions will be held in strict confidence unless there is a risk of harm to yourself or others.

We strive to accommodate your needs and partner you with the right specialist. But if you prefer, you can request to see a different therapist/counsellor.

Our services maintain strict confidentiality. However, in cases where whānau and tangata whai ora are deemed to be at risk or in danger, we are legally obligated to contact the appropriate agency to ensure their safety.

Our services are only open to whānau and tangata whai ora who live within Te Matau-a-Māui.

Whilst we prefer to deliver our services kanohi ki te kanohi, online sessions may occasionally be offered depending on individual circumstances. If this is required, it can be discussed at the time of referral.

An individual is considered in a state of crisis if they are unable to utilise their problem-solving abilities, potentially endangering themselves or others. If you find yourself in this situation, you should call 111. If you or your whānau are not at immediate risk, you could call or text 1737 for free and be connected with a trained counsellor.