Case study: Lower Mid North Coast
We are challenged by some families that present to our service due to the high level of distress
and complexity they present with, but our Family and Relationship Counsellors have managed to
attain some very positive outcomes over the past year with our clients. One particular example is
of a middle-aged couple who presented to our service to restore their relationship. It was a long
haul but our staff stayed with the couple in the places where they were ‘stuck’ and helped create
an atmosphere of safety whereby they could explore the areas of their relationship that needed
to change. The couple have now learnt how to manage their emotions, listen better, learnt how
to negotiate and ultimately have been successful in reconnecting with each other in what is now,
by their own definition, a rich and fulfilling relationship.
Drought Assistance
This year, our Drought Assistance program provided free mental health support to rural communities affected
by drought and delivered counselling for 97 individuals and families, as well as group programs for 72 people.
We also engaged extensively with the Central West communities of Cobar, Walgett and Warren to deliver
community workshops and participate in events aimed at increasing mental health sustainability.
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Art Therapy Program in rural NSW
Even though it was a blustery, cold day in Cobar, a wonderful
older lady, Issy, showed up early to help me set up the hall. We
warmed it up a bit with a couple of space heaters and got the
groundskeeper motivated to push the plumbers to get the water
running again. When the rest of the participants arrived, the
space looked welcoming, there was a hot cup of tea and bikkies
for everyone and we soon started the group. A few people
dropped in and out during the day to check out the action.
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