These days families are doing it hard. There is increased stress and pressure from every direction - financial, environmental, mental, emotional etc., both on individuals and families as a whole, affecting all relationships and dynamics.

Even with a family that is doing well, all it takes is for one member to no longer cope, and there can be a resulting breakdown of the whole family structure.

If financial pressure is added to a family already struggling, it can be enough to tip them over, and how many families these days aren’t feeling the pinch, especially in Port Douglas and surrounding areas?

It need not be money that’s the problem. It can be anything, from illness, separation, loss, conflict, children’s behaviour.

In this rapidly changing world it can be hard for parents to keep up with the latest technology, and this can also alienate the younger generation who have whole different set of problems, especially with the rise of cyber bullying and increasing use of social media.

In times of confusion and uncertainty, it is all too easy to turn on our nearest and dearest. It is only natural that those around us daily, those we are most comfortable with, cop the worst, and are often the dumping ground for the negative emotions and thoughts that accompany periods of anxiety and worry.

Families already have to accommodate different personalities, needs and ways of going about things. Turning on each other, although understandable, really doesn’t help, whereas a united family that pulls together can make the stresses of modern living bearable, and minimise their impact.
 
Although other family members and friends can be a good support, sometimes what’s needed is an outside perspective.

The PDNC offers a free family counselling service that can be used by any member of a family, that is, an individual, a couple, the whole family or any combination of members including grandparents.

Feelings and conflicts can be aired in a safe, confidential, supportive environment. Often people are hurting over words that have been said, or actions that have been taken when the intent has been very different, and the person has reacted out of their own fears and anxieties.

Counselling provides the opportunity to identify more clearly what is happening and clarify any misunderstandings. Strategies can be identified and put in place to reduce these kinds of conflict, and the family as a whole can work towards greater harmony and co-operation.

Everyone’s needs and wants are taken into account, although it can be hard juggling all the needs especially if they are very different.

The Family Support Service aims to provide a safe space in which pain, conflict and struggle can be, over time, turned around and become a source of strength.

What happens in a counselling session is treated professionally, confidentially and sensitively. Decisions aren’t made for you, rather the person, couple or families’ own knowledge and experience is affirmed and used, awareness is increased, and information, support and possible strategies are provided whilst undergoing tough times.

Jo Howard is our Family Counsellor. She has a Bachelor of Behavioural Sciences Degree and MA Prelim in Religious Studies from Latrobe University, and has a background in both Behavioural and Jungian Psychologies.

She has extensive training in different counselling styles and issues, and can work with individuals, couples and whole families.

The Family Counselling Service is only available on Wednesdays. Appointments are usually necessary and can be made by phoning the Neighbourhood Centre.

People are seen as soon as possible but if the wait is too long or the day not suitable, all effort is made to identify an alternative suitable service.

The Neighbourhood Centre can be contacted Monday to Friday on 4099 5518. 

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