Reaching out to a service for support

    Reaching out to a service might make us feel a bit nervous, especially if we have lots going on. Below are some tips and questions that might help you start your journey.

    There are a number of ways you might choose to do this.

    You might:

    • Call them and speak to someone over the phone
    • Reach out through an e-mail
    • Send a text message
    • Complete an online referral form
    • Get a referral from your regular GP

    Contact information can usually be found in an organisation's website, social media or printed material from the organisation. 


    You might also consider asking someone that we trust to reach out to an organisation on your behalf. You may even want to have them attend your first appointment with you.

    Get to know the service.

    Organisations will usually provide a number of supports. If you're looking for specific support, you might think about asking:

    • What services does your organisation provide?
    • Where are you located?
    • Who might I talk to at my first appointment? 
    • Where will my first appointment be held?
    • Do I need a referral from my doctor or can I refer myself?
    • What questions might I be asked as part of my journey?

    Each service can be different.

    Some services can provide support to members of the community for free, while other services may require a fee. Don't be afraid to ask if any fees are involved with getting support to make sure it lines up with your personal needs.


    Getting a mental health care plan from your GP may also reduce cost for psychological support and counselling services.

    Session numbers can vary.

    Some organisations may provide short term, goal oriented support. 


    Others may be able to provide longer term, ongoing mental health and wellbeing support.


    Be mindful of this when linking in with services to ensure it meets your needs and circumstances.

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    We know that reaching out to a service can sometimes be challenging, especially when we don't know what's behind the door.

    Take a look at the videos below of some of the community based organisations that you might reach out to for support. 

    Darwin Medicare Mental Health Centre

    Operated by Neami National, this service offers a welcoming place for people to access mental health information, services and supports from qualified professionals over extended hours. Anyone can reach out for support for themselves, a loved one or patient. It is free and no appointment or referral is needed. Visit their website here for more information.

    TeamHEALTH

    TeamHEALTH support people across the Top End to live a better life by delivering a range of person-centred mental health and wellbeing services.


    They work alongside individuals, families, and carers to provide the right support at the right time, helping people achieve their recovery goals and live independently within the community.

    The Flourish Collective

    The Flourish Collective provide a variety of psychological, health and wellbeing services to children, young people, individuals and their families across the psychological and developmental therapeutic space. They are based in Palmerston, NT. Visit their website here for more information.

    headspace Katherine

    headspace Katherine is a youth mental health service for young people aged 12 to 25, focusing on the early intervention of mental health problems. They provide health advice and support in 4 core areas including mental health, physical health (incl. sexual health), alcohol and other drugs and work and study. Visit their website here for more information.

    Melaleuca Australia

    Melaleuca Australia is an organisation that supports humanitarian entrants, migrants and people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds of all ages, settling in the Northern Territory of Australia, through the provision of a suite of specialist services. They are located in Darwin, NT.

    Resolve Counselling - Anglicare NT

    Anglicare NT have a team of qualified counsellors that work with families, couples and individuals to explore solutions to personal and relationship problems and other challenges. Their approach is person-centred, therapeutic and strengths based.


    Tailored sessions can be arranged for children and young people following the principles of Child Focused Practice.