SINCE the launch of jupiter in 2019, the Port Stephens youth mental health counselling service has continued to rise in its support of the youth of Port Stephens, with three counselling rooms now available in Salamander Bay, Tanilba Bay and Raymond Terrace.

From its earliest conception the mission of jupiter was to provide free, easily accessed confidential counselling services with interventions tailored to support the mental health of the youth of Port Stephens aged twelve – 21 years of age.

Advertise with News of The Area today.
It’s worth it for your business.
Message us.
Phone us – (02) 4981 8882.
Email us – media@newsofthearea.com.au

A recent report from jupiter revealed that 1189 free counselling consults have been delivered to the youth of Port Stephens in 2022 alone.

The number of consults have increased since 2021 by 174 percent, with participation doubling each year.

More than 130 free Counselling Sessions have also been delivered, specifically to the Indigenous youth of Port Stephens in 2022.

With an average wait time of eleven days from point of contact to the first appointment, waiting times with jupiter are far less than other Government funded mental health services.

“This year we had some major grants from our friends at the Newcastle Permanent Foundation, the NSW Government and for the first time the Commonwealth Government,” Paul Pearton, Jupiter’s Operations Manager and Counsellor, told News Of The Area.

Jupiter’s goal is to enable young people to strengthen their mental health, improve their wellbeing and was ultimately created to save lives.

Jupiter operates solely from donations, sponsorships, grants and volunteers and with the service costing around $250,000 the ongoing support of the community is so appreciated.

“Jupiter has been incredibly blessed to have such an amazing community supporting us in helping the young people of this area,” Avril Saunders, jupiter’s Counsellor and Marketing and Administration Officer said.