What we offer​

Family Link supports tamariki and rangatahi aged 7–17 who are affected by a loved one’s mental health or addiction challenges, or by a loved one who is neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD or autism).​

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Our free, short-term support creates a calm, safe space where young people can share what’s going on for them, particularly in relation to their whānau and home life. Support is typically offered for one school term and is not long-term or individual therapy.

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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. ​

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Thinking about referring a young person? 

Here are a few important things to know. 

This support is a good fit if:

• The young person is affected by a loved one’s mental health or addiction challenges, or by a loved one who is neurodivergent (e.g., ADHD or autism)

• They have some awareness of what’s happening at home and how it impacts them

• They are open to talking and engaging in support

 

This support may not be the right fit if:

• The young person needs individual therapy for their own mental health or behaviour challenges

• The main concerns are friendships, school issues, or social challenges not related to whānau experiences

• They are seeking ongoing support for ADHD, autism, or other needs

 

Before referring a young person:

• Talk with them about the referral so they feel prepared and involved

• Check with them that they are willing and ready to take part in the support

• Whānau can support them to attend scheduled sessions (and let us know if changes are needed)

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How we work

Our 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.

• Length of support: Our support is typically offered for one school term. If ongoing support is needed after this, we’ll either connect the young person and whānau with other services, or, in some cases, continue support on a case-by-case basis.

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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 ​​​​​​