We are WellSouth Primary Health Network. WellSouth is the local primary health organisation for Otago and Southland. What does a Primary Health Organisation do? Organise primary health care services in Otago and Southland. Support primary health care providers in the south. Our aim is for better health and wellbeing for the Southern community.
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Take a simple guided quiz and let us know your preferences. Get matched to an online therapist right for you. Convenient and affordable online therapy from your phone, tablet or computer.
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Services Offered
Suicide Prevention - It can be frightening if you or someone you care about has thoughts of suicide. You may ask what you can do to keep them safe, while looking after yourself. There are a number of reasons someone might feel suicidal. People who have lost someone to suicide are at greater risk of suicide themselves. Saying to someone; "Are you thinking of killing yourself?" is not going to increase their risk of suicide. Many people who are suicidal want help, but don't know how to ask. Suicide Safety has some key points for keeping safe. This page shows where you can get help. The Suicide Safety Plan is a tool to assist you. Complete your plan alongside someone you trust. The Suicide Safety Plan will be your personal guide for getting through the period of feeling suicidal.
Services Offered To: Adults Teens Children
Payment: Sliding Scale Pro-bono
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One quick last question. Who was seeking counseling today?
Do you know the reason they are not accepting clients?
A community counseling agency is a group therapy practice that offers affordable mental health services. Most are independent non-profit agencies, state agencies, or publicly-funded agencies. A few may restrict who is eligible for services, so it is a good idea to check when you call.
Community counseling agencies are generally more affordable than other therapy providers, but how much more affordable they are will depend on whether you qualify for a discount or sliding scale fee (or if they accept your insurance). Many, but not all, have a policy that they won't turn away anyone due to inability to pay. You should ask about their fees when you first call.
Expect to talk to kind people who want to help you find the care you need. Most community agencies strive to connect you with a live person within 24 hours, if not immediately. If you're asked to hold or leave a message, don't give up; just leave a message and wait. You should hear back pretty quickly.
Most agencies try to set up an initial assessment appointment within a week (some do within 24 hours), though the waitlist to start therapy is usually longer—about a few weeks on average. If you're not eligible or if the agency is not right for you, it's usually still worth it to call or drop in, because staff are knowledgeable about local options and can often refer you to one.