Gumboot Friday Counselling

Gumboot Friday helps eligible young people in New Zealand access funded counselling support when they need someone to talk to.

Choose Change offers a safe, confidential and non-judgmental space where young people can discuss anxiety, stress, low mood, relationships, school pressure, grief, family changes and other challenges affecting their wellbeing.

Sessions may be available in person in Wellington or online, depending on eligibility, availability and the current Gumboot Friday programme requirements.

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Who Can Access Gumboot Friday Counselling?

Gumboot Friday counselling is designed to support eligible young people in New Zealand.

Eligibility requirements, funded session limits and booking processes may change, so clients should check the latest Gumboot Friday criteria before arranging an appointment.

Choose Change can help you understand the booking process and whether Fiona is available as an approved provider.

What to Expect

Your first session is an opportunity to talk about what has been happening and what support you may need.

There is no pressure to share everything at once. Counselling can move at a pace that feels comfortable and may include:

  • Exploring thoughts and feelings
  • Identifying patterns or triggers
  • Developing practical coping strategies
  • Building confidence and emotional awareness
  • Setting realistic goals
  • Finding healthier ways to respond to difficult situations

How Gumboot Friday Counselling Can Help

Counselling may support young people experiencing:

  • Anxiety or ongoing worry
  • Low mood or emotional overwhelm
  • School, study or work pressure
  • Family or relationship difficulties
  • Grief and loss
  • Low confidence or self-esteem
  • Major life changes
  • Difficulty managing emotions
  • Feeling stuck, isolated or unsure where to turn

Counselling is tailored to the individual. Sessions are collaborative, respectful and focused on helping each person feel heard, understood and supported.

In-Person and Online Sessions

Gumboot Friday counselling may be available in person in Wellington or online for eligible clients elsewhere in New Zealand.

The available format will depend on current programme rules, client suitability and appointment availability.

How to Book

To begin, contact Choose Change or follow the current Gumboot Friday booking process.

Before confirming an appointment, please check:

  • That you meet the current eligibility requirements
  • That Fiona is listed as an approved Gumboot Friday provider
  • How many sessions may be funded
  • Whether online sessions are covered
  • Whether a referral or approval code is required

What Happens After Funded Sessions?

If further support is needed after the funded sessions are completed, available options can be discussed.

These may include:

  • Continuing privately
  • Exploring another funded counselling option
  • Speaking with a GP or support service
  • Receiving a referral to another suitable provider

Any ongoing counselling costs and options should be explained clearly before additional sessions are booked.

Frequently asked questions:

Find answers to common questions about counselling, sessions, and how I can support you.

Eligible sessions may be funded through the Gumboot Friday programme. The number of funded sessions and current conditions should be confirmed before booking.

The first session is about getting to know you and understanding what has brought you here. 

We’ll talk through: 

  • What’s been going on for you. 
  • What you’re hoping to get out of counselling. 
  • Any goals or concerns you might have. 

There is no pressure to share everything at once. We go at your pace, and the focus is on making sure you feel safe, comfortable, and heard. 

You can expect a supportive, confidential, and non-judgmental space where you can speak openly. 

My approach is: 

  • Gentle and respectful. 
  • Focused on what matters most to you. 
  • Practical as well as reflective. 
  • Tailored to your needs and pace. 

Together, we work towards understanding patterns, building coping strategies, and creating meaningful change. 

Online sessions may be available where permitted by the programme and considered suitable for the client.

Counselling is confidential, with limited exceptions where there are serious concerns about safety or where disclosure is required by law. This will be explained clearly before counselling begins.

This may depend on the client’s age and the current booking process. Contact Choose Change for guidance.

Book a Gumboot Friday Counselling Session

Contact Choose Change to ask about current availability, eligibility and the booking process for Gumboot Friday counselling.

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