We offer a variety of accessible, evidence-based programs designed to meet the unique needs of children. This includes specialist services as outlined below.
Children
Palmerston provides counselling, education, and support to help children, and their families reduce the impact of alcohol and drug use.
Specific programs for children include:
Parents Under Pressure (PuP) Program
The Parents Under Pressure (PuP) program helps families facing complex issues such as:
- Mental health concerns
- Issues affecting parental capacity
- Family conflict
- Substance use
- Severe financial stress
How the program works?
Delivered by a specially trained counsellor, the PuP program combines psychological principles related to parenting, child behaviour, and emotional regulation for parents. It’s designed for families facing challenging circumstances that impact family functioning.
PuP is highly individualised to meet the needs of each family. We work with parents to help them achieve their parenting goals, creating specific therapeutic plans that consider the family’s broader context.
In some cases, a referral from a health or community agency is required. We welcome referrals for families who could benefit from the program, aiming to help parents facing adversity build positive, secure relationships with their children.
You can self-refer for the Albany PuP program.
Armadale office is temporarily not receiving referrals for PuP (Aug 2025)
Due to high demand, we are not currently accepting new referrals. Please check back here for updates on when referrals will reopen. Thank you for your understanding.
PuP is available at:
Supporting Children Program
Palmerston offers specialised support for children aged 5 to 13 who are impacted by alcohol and drug use in their families. Our program helps children build resilience, express their emotions, and manage behaviours in a safe and supportive environment.
What We Offer
Our skilled and experienced team provides:
- Group activities
- Art therapy
- Play therapy
- Individual therapeutic support
- Referrals to other services if needed
We focus on helping children build emotional literacy and develop coping strategies to support their wellbeing.
If you’d like to learn more or access support, please get in touch with us.
The Supporting Children program is available at:
How do I get started?
To make an appointment you can call any of our branches. You don’t need a referral and it’s free. Appointments are usually about an hour long. Evening or Saturday morning appointments are available at most branches.
If you need urgent help
We are not an emergency service. If you are hurt, or worried about someone’s safety, or you need immediate support please call 000 (Ambulance, Police, Fire Brigade) or present to your closest emergency department.
