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Child & Youth Services
Supporting Young People and Their Whānau
At Anxiety NZ, we believe in empowering young people to thrive while living with anxiety and other mental health experiences.

We’ve put together a resource page to help caregivers navigate supporting their children through anxiety. Click through to learn more.

Counselling & Therapy Options
Our psychologists and clinicians will work collaboratively with both young people and their whānau to achieve:
  • Increased Resilience: Helping young people develop skills to process their emotions and face challenges with confidence.

  • Understanding Anxiety: Providing insights into anxiety to help young people and their whānau navigate their experiences together.

  • Effective Coping Strategies: Teaching practical techniques that enable young people to feel more in control of their thoughts and feelings.

Ready to start the journey?

Get started by filling out a referral form below.

(Please note: a referral form must be submitted to Anxiety NZ before an appointment can be made.)

What to Expect in Your First Session

Starting counselling can feel daunting, but we’re here to support you every step of the way. Whether your appointment is online or in-person, here’s what you can expect during your first session:

  • Introduction and Welcome: A warm introduction from the psychologist, who will create a safe and comfortable space for your young person.

  • Setting Goals Together: We’ll discuss your young person’s unique needs and goals, ensuring that the sessions are tailored to them.

  • Ongoing Support: Our team will provide ongoing guidance and strategies to empower your young person and support their journey.

Meet Our Child Psychologist

Our dedicated child psychologist specialises in working with young people and their whānau. With a compassionate approach rooted in understanding and empathy, James has 12+ years of experience in helping young people thrive while living with anxiety.

Please note: appointments with James are exclusively online (see more about online appointments here).

You can also request appointments with our other clinicians (in-person Auckland clinic or online via Teams or Zoom).
Hear from Our Whānau

“Anxiety NZ provided us with the support we desperately needed. Our child has gained confidence and is learning how to process their feelings, and we now feel equipped to help them.” – A Grateful Parent

Frequently Asked Questions
What ages can get counselling / therapy?

We see clients from the age of 6 and up.

Can I get counselling / therapy in-person?

Of course! We see clients for in-person appointments with a Mental Health Clinician or Resident Intern Psychologists at our clinic in St Lukes, Auckland.

I live outside of Auckland...can I still make an appointment?

Yes! We provide online appointments via ZOOM or Teams video calls. Click here for more information about online appointments.

What are your hours for online appointments?

Online appointments are available on weekdays with a Child Psychologist, Mental Health Clinician or Resident Intern Psychologists.

It's a bit tricky to make an appointment for my child as they're at school during the day...

We can coordinate with your child's school to set up online appointments for your child during school hours (with the school's approval).

I'm a parent or caregiver of a child with anxiety and I would like more support in understanding what my child is going through. Can you help?

Absolutely, we can! We also provide parent education to help you understand your child's anxiety. Please ask for more details when you make an appointment.

What is the process for making an appointment for my child?

First you must fill out a referral form (can be referred by a family member, a healthcare professional, or you can self-refer) and send it back to us at reception@anxiety.org.nz. You will then be contacted by us once your referral has been received and processed.

*Please note that prior to all counselling appointments, there will be a screening process with one of our clinicians so that we are able to determine the best service and resources for your personal situation.

How long are the counselling sessions?

Sessions are 50 minutes, providing ample time to discuss your young person's needs and goals.

What if my child feels nervous about starting?

It's completely normal to feel nervous. Our psychologists will create a supportive environment to help you and your child feel at ease.

How much are appointments and is there funding available for my child?

For details about fees and funding, please click here.

For more information or to contact us about an appointment, click the button below.
To help support you and your child...

You can download the free "Child Anxiety" guide below. We also highly recommend checking out the course "Untangling Anxiety", presented by Parenting Place. It is an engaging, self-paced course with bite-sized modules designed for busy parents.

Parenting Place is New Zealand's family charity; creating and delivering resources for parents at every age and stage. 

By using the link below and entering the discount code ANXIETY10 at checkout, you will get 10% off your enrolment. Anxiety NZ will also receive a small payment, every contribution enables us to keep sharing these resources and supporting children, caregivers and families.

Don't forget to put in the discount code ANXIETY10 at checkout.

Need Immediate Help?

If you are worried about the safety of a loved one, or someone else, you can call the Crisis Team on 0800 800 717 or dial 111 in an emergency. 

Important numbers and resources to find advice and support at a time of crisis or distress:
  • Free call or text 1737 any time for support from a trained counsellor.

  • Lifeline 0800 543 354 or (09) 522 2999 | Free text 4357 (HELP)

  • Youthline 0800 376 633

  • Samaritans 0800 726 666

  • If you or someone you know is at risk of harm: dial 111 or visit your nearest hospital emergency department. 

  • Call 0800 611 116 for your nearest DHB Mental Health Crisis Team (CATT Team).

Do you need support? Yellow Brick Road is a national organisation that provides support for whānau who have a loved one experiencing mental health challenges. 

For more information about helping family / whānau visit mentalhealth.org.nz

Helpful Resources for Parents, Family and Friends

Parent Help – 0800 568 856 for parents/whānau seeking support, advice and practical strategies on all parenting concerns. Anonymous, non-judgemental and confidential.

Family Services Helpline –  0800 211 211 for help finding (and direct transfer to) community-based health and social support services in your area.

Skylight – 0800 299 100 for support through trauma, loss and grief; 9am–5pm weekdays.

Yellow Brick Road – For families and whānau supporting a loved one who has a mental illness. Auckland 0800 732 825. Find other regions' contact details here.

Emerging Minds - More learning about mental health and wellbeing for families and individuals.