Community life is not only about celebration. It is also about care and support, especially in small towns where challenges are felt collectively.
From next month, the Heartlands Centre in Akaroa will again offer a free counselling service, extending a programme that began last year.
Local resident Lesley Thomas will provide counselling every Thursday from 10am to 3pm, starting on 12 February. Currently completing her counselling training at Manukau Institute of Technology, Lesley is gaining practical experience while serving her community.
Her approach is person-centred. Rather than giving advice, she encourages people to discover their own answers and make meaningful changes in their lives.
Counselling is open to anyone, whether they are dealing with trauma, feeling stuck, or simply seeking clarity. In recent years, the local community has experienced several difficult events that have placed pressure on existing support services. This initiative helps fill an important gap.
Heartlands manager Kerry Little describes Lesley as bringing fresh energy and empathy to the team, reinforcing Heartlands’ commitment to safe, confidential and accessible support.
Confidentiality is especially important in small communities, and Lesley emphasises this strongly with clients. Her experience as a school counsellor at Akaroa Area School and her background in social work and music add depth to her practice.
Beyond her current training, Lesley plans to pursue a Master’s qualification, driven by a desire to deepen her impact and continue learning.
In a world where mental health services are often stretched, the return of community-based counselling highlights the value of local solutions rooted in trust and connection.
Article in the Akaroa Mail
Akaroa Heartland Service centre
Contact information:
Akaroa Resource Collective Trust
39 Rue Lavaud
Akaroa
Phone: 033048659
Email: heartlands.coordinator@gmail.com
Heartlands Manager: Kerry Little
Open Hours:
Monday – Thursday 10:00am – 4:00pm
Friday 10:00am – 3:00pm
For more information on the services offered at your local Heartland Service centre go to the Akaroa Heartlands website.
Services we can support you with:
- Printing
- Scanning
- Phone
- Internet
- Use of Computers
Services available by appointment:
- Inland Revenue
- Work & Income (Phone appointment)
- New Zealand Superannuation
- Audiologist
- He Waka Tapu Screening
- Counselling
For more information about services available at your local service centre, please contact your local Heartlands Coordinator
Additional services and information:
- Advocacy
- Support
- Council Forum
- Senior Social Club
- Xmas in the Park
- Wellbeing Hui
- Hardship