Christchurch residents OK for counselling services

Christchurch residents who require counselling after the earthquake should have no trouble getting it, the NZ Association of Counsellors (NZAC) said today.

NZAC president, Jonathan Loan, said local counsellors have reacted brilliantly to this emergency and have made sure that everyone in need is getting the counselling help they require.

"It's a hugely traumatic time and many people will feel the need for some counselling assistance, but our members in Christchurch have moved very quickly to ensure that help is available to everyone who needs it," Mr Loan said.

Mr Loan was in Christchurch last week meeting with local counsellors.

"I was very impressed and proud of the response of the counselling community to this emergency.

"The local branch of our association has been working closely with the civil defence teams in providing ongoing counselling support.

"Many members have offered their services through other agencies providing counselling to those affected.

"Members have also volunteered to go out with the building inspection teams, visiting house to house to assist with assessing counselling needs."

Mr Loan said it is likely that counselling needs will increase as people get past dealing with the immediate practical requirements for survival and are left with the ongoing emotional impacts.

He added that counselling as a result of the earthquake is not just restricted to Christchurch.

He said NZAC members are helping people throughout the country as former Christchurch residents leave the city and re-settle in other towns and cities.

NZAC counsellors can be contacted through private practices and various agencies. These include Relationship Services, EAP providers, health services, various iwi and runanga and through the NZAC national office, phone (07) 834 0220 during office hours."

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