Open Arms – Veterans & Families Counselling is a national mental health service dedicated to supporting the wellbeing of current and ex-serving Australian Defence Force (ADF) personnel and their families. The service is free and confidential, providing a range of mental health and counselling services tailored to the unique needs of veterans and their loved ones.
Services Offered
- 24/7 Counselling:Phone: Available around the clock, veterans and their families can access immediate support by calling 1800 011 046.Online: Open Arms offers online counselling services, providing an alternative for those who prefer digital communication.
- Face-to-Face Counselling:Open Arms provides face-to-face counselling sessions at various locations across Australia to support individuals dealing with a range of mental health issues.
- Group Programs:Various group therapy programs are available to help veterans and their families connect with others facing similar challenges. These programs focus on topics such as post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues.
- Peer Support:Open Arms offers a peer support program where veterans can connect with peers who have lived experience in the military. This service aims to provide understanding, support, and mentorship.
- Suicide Prevention:The service includes suicide prevention initiatives, offering immediate support and strategies to individuals in crisis, and connecting them with ongoing care.
- Community and Workplace Education:Open Arms provides educational workshops and training programs for communities and workplaces to improve understanding of veteran issues and promote mental health awareness.
- Family Support:Recognising the impact of service on families, Open Arms offers counselling and support services specifically for families of veterans, including children and partners.
- Residential Programs:For those needing more intensive support, Open Arms offers residential treatment programs focusing on recovery from trauma and other mental health issues.
- Outreach Programs:Outreach services are available to ensure veterans in remote or regional areas can access the support they need, including through telehealth options.
- Specialist Services:Open Arms collaborates with other organisations to provide specialist services such as anger management, pain management, and support for substance use issues.
How to Access Open Arms Services
- Phone: Call 1800 011 046 for immediate support and to arrange counselling services.
- Online: Visit the Open Arms Website to access online counselling and find more information about their services.
Open Arms is committed to enhancing the mental health and wellbeing of Australia's veteran community, ensuring that support is readily available to those who have served and their families.
For more information, visit Open Arms - Veterans & Families Counselling.