Our Services

Support for Children & Teenagers

Compassionate, professional mental health support for children and teens from Family Works Central – counselling, group programmes, school-based counselling and social work across Whanganui, Taranaki, Wellington region, and Wairarapa.

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We offer the following

Support Services

Specialist Counselling & Social Work

Our trained counsellors and social workers work one-on-one with children and young people, supporting them through challenges like bullying, anxiety, loss, or complex family situations.

Growth and Connection

From time to time, we host group sessions that help young people build self-esteem, develop healthy relationship skills, and learn how to make positive choices.

School Based Support

Our counsellors and social workers provide discreet, culturally responsive support directly in schools, helping to bridge connections between home, school, and wellbeing.

SWiS (Social Workers in Schools): We have social workers in 14 schools across Porirua.

AMAA (Awhi Mai Awhi Atu): Our AMAA programme operates in three schools in Taranaki and one in Whanganui.

We understand that children and teens flourish when they’re heard and supported in a way that aligns with their values and culture. That’s why we always work to create positive, safe environments that nurture growth, healing, and resilience.

“The Family Works Social Workers in Schools team recently supported one of our female students experiencing low self-esteem and anxiety that was affecting her school attendance as she transitioned from Intermediate to College. Through positive affirmations, goal-setting and consistent support, she has started the new term with a completely different attitude and hasn’t missed a single day - a huge step forward. It’s incredibly affirming to see the positive impact the Social Workers in Schools (SWiS) team can have on young people and their confidence.”

Local School - Porirua

Counselling in Schools

Supporting Tamariki to Thrive

At Family Works, we know that a child’s emotional wellbeing is just as important as their learning. Our Counselling in Schools programme provides safe, confidential, and culturally responsive support for tamariki who may be facing challenges such as anxiety, bullying, family changes, grief, or behavioural difficulties.

Our qualified counsellors work closely with students, their whānau, and school staff to ensure every child has the tools and resilience they need to succeed – both inside and outside the classroom. By addressing emotional and social needs early, we can help prevent challenges from becoming bigger problems later in life.

Through one-on-one sessions, group work, and tailored interventions, we provide a nurturing environment that builds confidence, self-esteem, and positive relationships.

Referral Form Student Referral Form Schools Referral Form Whānau

Support for Children & Teenagers