Telephone Counselling

The approach used in LifeLine’s telephone counselling is based primarily upon person-centred theories. The aim of the counselling is to empower people; to offer supportive listening and response and to explore issues, options and strategies in order to generate caller’s own answers and resolutions, enabling people to make the best choices for themselves and their families. This approach is linked closely with LifeLine’s values, the focus being on the importance of listening, non-judgementally and with respect. Telephone counselling is provided by 50-60 volunteers who are trained to a professional level of listening and response. Prior to becoming a telephone counsellor, volunteers complete 54 hours of training. During this time trainees also undertake a series of assessments and spend time with experienced counsellors. Additional support and training is given to telephone counsellors through the provision of ongoing training, 24 hour back-up support and group supervision which is provided by external Counselling / Psychology professionals.

FACE-2-FACE COUNSELLING

Our service is donation based. The usual number of sessions is six, if there are substantive reasons why more sessions should be provided, this can be discussed with your Counsellor.
Our referrals range from clients with relationship issues, grief, financial pressure, depression,
anxiety, Youth, anger and general stress.

COUNSELLING TIMES

The service is offered from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday, and is by appointment only. Appointments can be made by calling the LifeLine Waikato office on 07 8380715.