If you feel there are challenges in life you are struggling to deal with, it’s important to know you are not alone. Many people feel this way when faced with difficult situations, life pressures or crisis. We can help you.

Make an appointment with a counsellor

Call the site nearest to you and ask to speak with the intake worker for counselling who will guide you to the appropriate person for help. 

To book or for more information about our counselling service.

Psychiatric Regional Triage Service

The Psychiatric Regional Triage Service offers direct contact with all of Bendigo Health’s mental health services. This service offers crisis care 24-hours, seven days a week. Call 1300 363 788 for assistance or visit http://www.bendigohealth.org.au/Psychiatric_Services.asp?PageID=28

I’m struggling, how can you help me?

It’s important to seek help if you, a family member, friend, school or work colleague are feeling fragile, alone, stressed, conflicted, sad or vulnerable. Stressful situations can lead to depression, anxiety, self harm, thoughts of taking your own life and trouble sleeping.

Life stressors can include:

Our male and female counsellors provide the opportunity for you to talk about and explore any life challenges you are experiencing.

We provide an environment of acceptance, support and respect in a safe and non-judgmental place.

Locations

Confidential counselling services are available between 9am and 5pm from Monday to Friday at our Eaglehawk and Kangaroo Flat sites. We have provide an outreach service in Heathcote.

New Head to Health Hub 

Bendigo Community Health Services has opened a new dedicated Head to Health mental health hub (previously named HeadtoHelp). We are well aware there are people out there struggling through this Coronavirus pandemic who are not getting the help they need and this initiative is the opportunity to reach out to them and provide that valuable support. Appointments are free. To make an appointment call 1800 595 212.

What will it cost me to see a counsellor?

All our counselling services are free of charge.

What if my case is extreme – how will you deal with me?

Mental health clinicians support consumers with complex mental health issues and those diagnosed with a mental health condition. Clinicians provide support, counselling, mental state assessments, health monitoring and connection with other services involved in your care.

For more information on this service or referrals call us on 5406 1200 to speak with the intake worker of counselling. A Mental Health Care plan is needed to access MHCCC and PTS programs. This can be faxed to us on 5441 4200.

I’m worried about my young child - can you help them?

Our children's counselling service is specifically designed for children aged under 12 years. This service provides short term, goal focussed psychological strategies for children presenting with mild to moderate mental health issues.

For more information on this service or referrals call us on 5406 1200 and ask for the intake worker of counselling or Janaya Wiggins. Fax referrals to 5441 4200.

Do you offer a service that can help my teenager?

Headspace Bendigo is a service for young people aged from 12 to 25 years who may be experiencing a difficult time. Our service is free and confidential. We have doctors, mental health nurses, nurses, social workers, occupational therapists and psychologists.

Headspace staff help with issues such as anxiety, problems at school, home or with peers; depression, sexual health, bullying and physical health. Headspace also offers support for parents and carers of young people.

To book or find more information about Headspace Bendigo.

I'm part of the LGTBIQ community and need to talk to someone

I’m not coping with being gay or lesbian, my family doesn’t understand and I need help. We can help talk it through and come up with strategies to help you with the situation. Sometimes all you need is an objective ear to listen and guide you. To make an appointment with us call 5406 1200 and ask for the intake worker of counselling.

If you are aged 12-25 call headspace Bendigo on 03 5434 5345.   

I have an emergency

If you have an emergency please call 000 immediately.

Psychiatric Regional Triage Service

The Psychiatric Regional Triage Service offers direct contact with all of Bendigo Health’s mental health services. This service offers 24-hour crisis care, seven days a week. Call 1300 363 788 for assistance or visit http://www.bendigohealth.org.au/Psychiatric_Services.asp?PageID=28

Some useful links

Other resources

 Last updated: September 2019.