What we offer​

Family Link supports tamariki and rangatahi aged 7–17 who have a loved one experiencing mental health or addiction challenges, or who are neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD or Autism).​

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Our free, short-term support is designed to create a calm, safe space where young people can talk about what’s going on for them, especially within the context of their whānau and home life.

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We help young people make sense of their experiences and find ways to understand and manage big emotions. We follow their lead and support them in ways that feel right for them, using a strengths-focused approach. ​

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How we work

Our two Mental Health Practitioners work collaboratively with young people and their whānau. ​

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• Getting started: We begin by meeting with the young person and their whānau to understand what’s been happening and to check whether this kind of support feels like a good fit. Together, we agree on a shared focus for the sessions.

• Our approach: We take a gentle, strengths-based approach. The young person decides what’s important to talk about, and we support them to build on their strengths and insights.

• Where we meet: Sessions usually take place at school, but we can be flexible and arrange a setting that works best for whānau.

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Thinking about referring a young person? 

Here are a few important things to know. 

 

• This is not long-term or individual therapy. If the young person needs more specialised or ongoing support, we’ll help connect them and their whānau with the right services.

• Support works best when it's their choice. Please talk with your young person before referring. It’s important they feel ready, willing, and involved in the process.

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How to access our support

• Whānau can refer directly using our contact form or by directly contacting a member of our team on (07) 577 1457. 

• We also accept referrals from community services such as schools, general practitioners (GPs), and community mental health services.  If you are an organisation wanting to refer, you can access our referral form here. 

• Young people aged 16 and over can refer themselves using our contact form ​​​​​​