Melanoma New Zealand has introduced a new counselling service providing up to four individual sessions with a professional counsellor for FREE, either online or by phone. Online support groups, for patients and family, are being established as part of the service too.
Our counsellor, Shireen Garrett, supports anyone affected by melanoma, including individuals, families, whānau and carers facing the challenges of a new diagnosis, ongoing treatments or post treatment. This new service is in addition to our Nurse Educator service which offers general clinical guidance about skin cancer through free online consultations with a melanoma Nurse Educator.
Individuals can book directly on the Melanoma New Zealand website, and we also accept referrals from health professionals.
The Melanoma New Zealand support groups will involve monthly online group sessions facilitated by the Counsellor and individuals are asked to register their interest as Melanoma New Zealand works to set these up once a sufficient number of participants has been reached.
One of the reasons for launching the new service was because of the findings of a Melanoma New Zealand survey of 108 melanoma patients (past and present), which identified that a significant percentage (60%) of patients experienced anxiety, and 74% identified fear of cancer progression as an impact of their diagnosis.
Shireen is a qualified and experienced counsellor and teacher, bringing a wealth of experience to her role having spent 20 years in teaching, facilitation, and counselling roles, supporting people in high schools, private practice, and contracting to general practice.
Shireen says, “I am empathetic, supportive, and compassionate in my approach and walk alongside my client whilst honouring and respecting your autonomy. I provide a safe, respectful and non-judgemental space which is sensitive to your stories and life experiences.
“I practise from a pluralistic and holistic approach (not a one-size-fits-all) and collaborate with you to determine ways of working together. I strongly believe that change is always possible and that our identity is fluid and continually evolving.
“I will listen to you, hold hope for you when you cannot, and work with you to help make sense of and navigate the challenges and emotions you are experiencing.”
To book, refer or register interest go directly to our Counselling services webpage or go to www.melanoma.org.nz – and see Counselling under ‘How we can help you’.