National headspace Day: breaking myths about the consult room
As Australia marks National headspace Day, many young people still imagine a counselling session as a clinical, intimidating ordeal. In contrast, headspace centres in Lismore, Ballina and Tweed Heads—delivered by Social Futures—are designed to feel welcoming, flexible, and centred on the needs and preferences of young people. The overarching message of this year’s day, Make Space, is simple: carve out time for activities and supports that keep mental health strong.
A space that feels like yours
Sheree Dixon, Clinical Lead at headspace Ballina, explains that the consult room is intentionally adaptable. “The room is a nice, open space, and we adjust the lighting to suit the young person,” she says. “We might open the window, dim the lights, or provide a cosy blanket. It’s about what makes them feel comfortable.”
Flexibility is built into the seating too. “Chairs aren’t fixed,” Sheree notes. “If a young person wants to sit side by side, or even on the ground with bean bags, that works. We ask, ‘Where would you prefer to sit? Does this feel comfortable for you?’ It’s about giving them choice and control—an important step in reducing perceived power imbalances in traditional counselling.”
The aim is to create a space that signals safety and welcome from the moment someone walks in.
More than just talk: hands-on and creative support
While conversation is central, headspace uses a variety of modalities to help young people engage. “We have desks that extend up so people can colour, draw, or create with their hands while they talk,” Sheree explains. “There are art books, markers, and fidget tools for sensory needs.”
Other activities can include clay, collage, or grounding exercises. “Sometimes sessions move outdoors into the backyard for grounding—putting feet on the earth, for example,” Sheree says. “We meet the young person where they are and stay flexible.”
For 16-year-old Leon, who is part of the Lismore Youth Advisory Group, the approach was transformative. “It wasn’t what I expected—less lab-like and more like talking with a friend on a couch. They asked questions, but mostly I just talked, and it felt normal.”
Make Space for what matters
The Make Space theme highlights the importance of carving out time for activities that nurture wellbeing. For Leon, music is a core outlet. “I play drums and am learning bass. Music helps me focus and let out energy, and it’s something I do just for me.”
Sheree agrees that small, low-stakes activities can have big benefits. “People try to cram a lot into life. It’s crucial to make space for things that relax you—drawing, painting, or even a colouring book.”
Seeking support: a simple, stigma-free step
For young people hesitant to seek help, Leon offers straightforward encouragement: there’s no risk—if you don’t like it, you don’t have to continue. The message from headspace leadership is clear: you don’t have to go through this alone. Help can be found through centres, online services, or trusted friends and family, and taking the first step is powerful.
Headspace also emphasizes accessibility: services are free, and eheadspace can be accessed via mobile devices for those nervous about face-to-face visits.
Where to find headspace
Locations include headspace Tweed Heads, headspace Lismore, and headspace Ballina, all operated by Social Futures and funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program. If you’re feeling unsure, consider dropping in or calling ahead to learn more about what a visit could feel like. The door is open, and the space is yours to use as you need it.
Take the first step
Ready to make space for wellbeing? The headspace website offers interactive activities to boost mental health, and local centres provide welcoming environments that redefine what a consult room can be. If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to an area headspace centre—the options are there, and help is reachable.
Contact information for headspace Ballina, Lismore, and Tweed Heads is available on their respective pages, with centre hours and walk-in options outlined to support easy access.
