Cost No Barrier to Relationship Counselling

Media Statement Embargoed until Saturday January 3, 2009

Cost No Barrier to Seeking Counselling for Relationship Issues

New Zealanders need to know that free counselling is available for people facing relationship issues. “Most people who are going through relationship difficulties are eligible for free counselling, which is funded by the Family Court,” said Cary Hayward, National Practice Manager of Relationship Services.

“It is a concern when we see that cost is one of the main barriers to people seeking counselling support for their relationship in the Families Commission report, ‘Reaching Out: Who New Zealanders turn to for relationship support’. Family Court funded counselling is available from Relationship Services 75 offices throughout New Zealand”

“The Families Commission research confirms both our experience and research that most people resolve relationship problems by talking with their partner and/or family or friends. This highlights the importance of people learning good relationship skills, both for their own relationship and to support friends and family,” Mr Hayward said

“We recognise that people are often reluctant to seek help from counsellors. Many people look for ideas in books or on the internet. There is some excellent, practical advice on Relationship Services’ website, HYPERLINK http://www.relate.org.nz www.relate.org.nz.”

“While it is good that people are seeking help from a variety of sources, it is also important that they are encouraged to seek professional help when it is needed. Our client feedback shows that 90% of people find counselling very useful, and we know that counselling does work, particularly if people go early enough”, Mr Hayward said.

ENDS

www.relate.org.nz

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