FAQs

 

Who can access WellElder counselling?

You may be eligible for WellElder counselling if you live within the area covered by the former Capital & Coast District Health Board and meet one of the following criteria:

  • Age-based eligibility
    You are aged 60 years or over (or 55 years or over if Māori or Pasifika) and are experiencing mild to moderate mental health concerns.

  • Age-related health condition
    You are under 60 years (or under 55 if Māori or Pasifika) and have an age-related health condition that is affecting your wellbeing.

  • Carers of older people
    You are caring for or supporting an older family member or whānau member with an age-related health condition, and the caring role is impacting your wellbeing.

Do I need a referral from my GP?

No. You do not need a GP referral to access WellElder counselling.

You can refer yourself directly by completing the self-referral form under the Referral tab at the top of our home page. There are two referral pathways available:

  • self-referral, or
  • referral from a health professional or support worker.

How do I make an appointment?

The easiest way is to complete the self-referral form under the Referral tab on our home page. If you are unable to complete the form, you can phone us on (04) 380 2440.

Once we receive your referral, we will confirm eligibility, discuss waiting times, and arrange a suitable location.

Can someone help me complete the referral form?

Yes. A family member, support person, or health professional can help you, or you can phone us, and we can assist.

What does counselling with WellElder cost?

WellElder provides low-cost or no-cost counselling for older people. Our aim is to offer a safe, respectful space where you feel heard and supported.

There is no expectation to pay, but if you would like to make a contribution towards the cost of counselling sessions, you are welcome to pick the amount that works for you.

We provide payment details in all of our welcome packs, but please don’t feel pressured to give more than is comfortable. We see everyone who is eligible, regardless of whether they are able to give financial contributions.

Is there a waiting list?

Waiting times vary depending on location and availability. We will let you know when we receive your referral.

Where will I see the counsellor?

Counselling is provided in person at different venues across the community, depending on availability and what is closest to you. In some circumstances, home visits may be considered.

Current locations include:

Riddiford House, Level 1, 94 Riddiford Street, Newtown
Johnsonville Community Centre, 3 Frankmoore Avenue, Johnsonville
Coastlands Shopping Centre, First Floor, Paraparaumu
Hutt Valley – location advised at time of booking
Porirua – Pember House, 3 Hagley Street, Porirua City Centre

Is counselling available in my home or online?

Most sessions are provided in person. Home visits may be considered in some circumstances. Online counselling is not routinely offered and depends on individual needs.

How many sessions will I have?

Up to six counselling sessions are available. You and your counsellor will decide together how often to meet, but this is normally within a four-month period.

How long is each session?

Sessions usually last 50–60 minutes and can be adjusted to suit your needs.

What happens at the first appointment?

Your first session is a chance to meet your counsellor, talk about what has brought you to counselling, and discuss what support might be helpful. Confidentiality will also be explained.

What kinds of issues can I talk about in counselling?

People come to WellElder for many reasons, including grief and loss, anxiety, depression, loneliness, life changes, relationship concerns, health-related challenges, caregiving stress, or adjusting to ageing. You do not need to be in crisis.

How old is the counsellor?

All WellElder counsellors have plenty of life experience as well as counselling expertise. If you would like to know more about our counsellors, please refer to the About Us tab using the link below.

About Us

If my doctor refers me to counselling, does this mean s/he thinks I am not coping or I’m losing my mind?

Absolutely not. Doctors, social workers, and other health professionals refer people to counselling when they face challenges, difficult experiences, or emotions and can see that new approaches may help. Life changes related to ageing affect all of us in many different ways. Counselling is one way of talking things over and identifying strategies to help manage these situations.

At WellElder, we take it as a sign of strength of character when people attend counselling (often for the first time in their lives) to address their circumstances and focus on their feelings.

Can family members or whānau attend sessions with me?

Yes. With your agreement, family members or whānau can attend sessions. This can be discussed with your counsellor.

What if I don’t feel comfortable with my counsellor?

A good fit is important. If you do not feel comfortable, let us know and we will discuss other options where possible.

How private is counselling?

Counselling is confidential. Information is only shared with your permission, except in limited situations related to safety, professional supervision, or notifying referrers when counselling starts and ends.

What if English is not my first language?

Please let us know about any language or communication needs when you make your referral, and we can discuss options.

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