Counselling an effective support

03 February 2012

Media release: for immediate release

Counselling an effective support

Relationship Services Whakawhanaungatanga applauds the New Zealand Police for encouraging their officers affected by the Canterbury earthquakes to seek counselling.

National Practice Manager JoAnn Vivian was commenting on figures that show a spike in referrals for Police officers for trauma, from 567 in 2010 to 983 last year.

Last February’s Canterbury earthquake was believed to be the main cause of the sharp rise as Police officers from across the country responded to the disaster.

Relationship Services has counselled more than 13,000 people affected by the Canterbury quakes since September 2010.

“Police, like other professionals who have been involved with the events following the quakes, are not immune to the impacts of these tragic events.

“Counselling has a long and proven history of helping people work through issues most of us face at some time in our lives, whether it be in our relationships with our family and friends, or in the workplace.

“Counselling allows people the time and space to work through issues in a safe, non-judgemental way,” she says.

The Government has also recognised the continuing need for support for Canterbury people through its Quake Support and Counselling Services Helpline on 0800 777 846, she says.

ENDS