Certainty needed on funding for Earthquake Trauma Counseling

Certainty needed on funding for Earthquake Trauma Counseling

Press Release
New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists (NZAP)

21st November, 2016

The New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists is calling for swift action on dedicated emergency counselling funding for the mental health needs of those affected by the ongoing North Canterbury earthquakes.

The experience of many Christchurch based psychotherapists tells us that the ongoing psychological effects of this devastating series of quakes will be felt for years to come.

“We are now 6 years beyond the first devastating Canterbury earthquake, yet NZAP members are still working with people who have been traumatized.” Says Sheila Larsen, President of the New Zealand Association of Psychotherapists and Christchurch resident. “The psychological trauma is not caused only by the earthquakes themselves, but also from the way their lives have been irrevocably changed, the losses, the ongoing difficulties of dealing with insurance and EQC, of repairing or rebuilding their homes, changes in their work or school situation, and the stress that these things have placed on their relationships and family life.”

It is important that people across the regions impacted by this quake are able to easily access immediate and ongoing counseling support, from Wellington to the Canterbury region.

It is expected that many will need ongoing support, and the nature of PTSD responses to earthquakes means that many in the Canterbury region may find themselves re-living past anxiety and trauma from the 2010 and 2011 quakes.

“It’s not just a matter of dealing with the immediate crisis, but of supporting these people over a long period of time. Psychotherapists are skilled in these areas and a good resource for the community.” Says Larsen.

The Government needs to make it clear to clients and professionals that funding is freely available, as uncertainty about accessing needed treatment can further add to stress and anxiety.

ENDS

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