Our Counsellor - Pou Ngākau

We feel very fortunate to be able to offer Counselling support to our tamariki and whānau.

What is Counselling?

Counsellors help children to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe, confidential environment.
The role of a counsellor is to listen without judging or criticising, to help find out the cause of problems and to help students move forward from the situation they may find themselves in.
Through counselling children learn to understand and manage their emotions, develop problem-solving skills, and improve their social interactions. It provides them with the tools to cope with challenges, build resilience, and enhance their overall wellbeing.

Our Counsellor

Hi, my name is Kelly Jenkins.

I was born and raised in Hamilton and have lived in Rototuna for the past 17 years where my husband and I have raised our two children and our dog in this lovely community. In my spare time I enjoy reading, being creative and supporting my children in their passions.

I have been doing my practicum at Te Ao Marama as a student counsellor for the past two years and have recently completed a Bachelor in Applied Counselling.

I feel extremely privileged to be continuing my counselling journey with Te Ao Mārama and look forward to continuing to work with our students and fostering beautiful relationships within the Te Ao Mārama community and working alongside the incredible staff to support students and their whānau.

I am passionate about children’s wellbeing and facilitating a safe and welcoming space where children will feel heard, understood and supported.

You can contact me at: [email protected]

What does Pou Ngākau mean?

The name Pou Ngākau combines “Pou” (pillar/support), and “Ngākau” (heart, inner wellbeing).

Together, Pou Ngākau signifies someone that provides guidance, support and strength for the heart and soul of the tamariki, mokopuna and whānau of Te Ao Mārama.

The logo represents the wrap around support of our tamariki, including staff, whānau and other agencies.

How can our counsellor help?

Kelly can support students and whānau with issues related to:

  • Stress
  • Anxiety
  • Friendships
  • Confidence
  • Low self esteem
  • Bullying and harassment
  • Loss and grief
  • Behavioural issues
  • Sadness/ depression
  • Trauma
  • Lack of motivation/goal settings
  • Challenges at home
  • Whānau changes/ separation

How do counselling appointments at Te Ao Mārama work?

Once consent is obtained, Kelly can begin working with your child straight away.
Initially Kelly will take the time to get to know your child and develop a safe and trusting relationship. When the child feels comfortable, they can begin to work together to help overcome challenges they may be facing. Sessions are weekly or fortnightly depending on need and the overall caseload of students. Kelly is happy to communicate with parents and liaise with teachers to discuss your child’s needs throughout, however confidentiality will be upheld within the counselling setting.

How does confidentiality work?

Kelly is happy to work together with staff and whānau to discuss the child’s challenges and needs throughout the duration of counselling, however, there are a number of guidelines relating to confidentiality and practice that Counsellors must adhere to.
In keeping with counselling ethics, confidentiality will be honoured, meaning, what the child shares with Kelly will remain confidential, with the exception of safety concerns. The safety of the child is paramount, and a counsellor’s duty is to prevent harm, therefore, any disclosures regarding risk to a child or someone else will be addressed as needed to ensure the safety of all concerned and counsellors may not be able to keep confidentiality.
If at all possible, Kelly will talk this through with the child before acting.

How do I enquire about counselling or request support for my child?

A parent/caregiver can contact Kelly directly by emailing [email protected]

What other supports are available for my child?

Helplines

  • 1737- Need to talk - call free or text 1737, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, for support from trained counsellors.
  • Youthline - call free on 0800 376 633, free text 234 or email [email protected] or online chat.
  • What's Up - call free on 0800 942 8787 (for 5–18-year-olds). Phone counselling is available Monday to Friday, 1pm–10pm and weekends, 3pm–10pm. Online chat is available 7pm–10pm daily.
  • Lifeline – call free on 0800 543 354 or text HELP to 4357.
  • Contact your GP

Websites

Just a Thought provides tools, resources and free mental health courses for youth.

Small Steps Free Online Tools to Manage Your Wellbeing provides free online tools to manage your wellbeing.

The Low Down is a website to help young New Zealanders recognise and understand depression or anxiety. Free-text service: text number 5626.

Mental Health Foundation contains tools and support to build and sustain wellbeing.

All Right? provides practical ideas on looking after yourself and your whānau.