Additional support options
AV Counselling Clinic is a St Leonards and Penrith based private practice. Some people may prefer or require publicly funded or community-based mental health support, particularly during periods of heightened distress, limited access, or when immediate assistance is needed. The services listed below provide information, short-term support, or crisis care within the Australian funded mental, social and emotional health system.
When additional support may be needed
At times, emotional distress can feel difficult to manage on your own or outside scheduled appointments. This may include periods of acute stress, overwhelming emotions, or concerns about personal safety. If you are feeling unsafe, unable to cope, or in need of immediate support, accessing community or crisis services can be an important step.
Immediate and crisis support
​Emergency services (000) for situations involving immediate danger or serious risk to safety and wellbeing.
Lifeline, 24/7 telephone support for people experiencing emotional distress or feeling overwhelmed.
Phone: 13 11 14
Website: lifeline.org.au
Kids Helpline, 24/7 telephone support for children and young people aged 5-25 years. experiencing emotional distress or feeling overwhelmed.
Phone: 1800 55 1800
Online chat and web counselling: kidshelpline.com.au
Beyond Blue, information and support for anxiety, depression, and mental health concerns, including telephone and online support options.
Phone: 1300 224 636
Website: beyondblue.org.au
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Community and public mental health services
Safe Haven Free, walk-in support services for for people experiencing emotional distress who may not need hospital care but would benefit from immediate supportive contact. Safe Havens offer a calm, non-clinical environment and do not require appointments or referrals. Availability varies by location.
Website: safehaven.org.au
Medicare Mental Health Centres walk-in mental health services providing free, short-term support without the need for a referral. These centres are designed to support people experiencing distress or escaping mental health concerns.
Website: health.gov.au
Local Health District mental health services Public mental health services accessed through a GP, emergency department, or local health service. Eligibility and service scope var by region.
Family Connect and Support, service that can help children, young people, parents and family connect to the right services and supports at the right time. Available across NSW.
Website: search for your local provider familyconnectsupport.dcj.nsw.gov.au
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Youth mental health services
headspace mental health, physical health, AOD support, work and study support for young people aged 12-25, including free and bulk-billed counselling, health advice, and early intervention services.
Website: headspace.org.au to find your local centre location.
ReachOut online model of mental health support for young people all over Australia, free, anonymous and available 24/7 that lets young people connect on their terms. From one-to-one peer support to tips, stories and resources.
Website: reachout.com
eheadspace online and phone-based mental health support for young people.
Website: headspace.org.au/eheadspace
Youth Off The Streets provides crisis accommodation, counselling, and support services for young people experiencing homelessness, family breakdown, or significant disadvantage.
Website: youthoffthestreets.com.au
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Aboriginal People, LGBTIQ+, CALD communities
13YARN crisis support 24/7 to yarn without judgement providing culturally safe space to yarn about your needs, worries or concerns. Support includes information and exploring for ongoing support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Website: 13yarn.org.au
Qlife provides anonymous and free LGBTIQ+ peer support and referral for people in Australia wanting to talk about sexuality, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships.
Website: life.org.au
Transcultural Mental Health Services
NSW Health service, provides consultation, referral support, and clinician guidance.
Website: dhi.health.nsw.gov.au/transcultural-mental-health-centre
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Twenty10 support services for LGBTIQ+ young people and their families (NSW-based). Counselling, housing, and wellbeing support.
Website: twenty10.org.au
