Breaking myths about headspace consult rooms
National headspace day is a timely reminder to pause the myths about mental health support and explore what a headspace consult can offer. Across headspace Lismore, headspace Ballina and headspace Tweed Heads—delivered by Social Futures—the experience is designed to feel welcoming, flexible and focused on the young person’s needs. The day’s theme, Make Space, invites everyone to carve out time for activities and moments that sustain mental wellbeing.
A space that feels like yours
Clinical Lead Sheree Dixon describes the consult rooms as intentionally youth-friendly. “The room is a nice, open space,” she says. “We adjust the lighting to suit the needs of the young person—whether that means opening a window, dimming lights, or offering a cosy blanket. It’s about what makes them feel comfortable.”
Flexibility is built into seating as well. “The chairs aren’t fixed, so if a young person prefers to sit side by side, we can do that. They can sit on the ground, bring in bean bags—whatever works for them,” Sheree adds. “We always ask, ‘Where would you prefer to sit? Does this feel comfortable for you?’ It’s about giving them choice and ownership of the space.”
This approach helps reduce any perceived power imbalance that can appear in traditional counselling settings. “From the moment they walk in, we want young people to know this is their safe space, and they have control over it,” she says.
More than just talk: a toolkit of approaches
Headspace consults blend conversation with creative, hands-on activities to help young people feel at ease. “We have desks that extend up so young people can sit and colour, draw, or do something with their hands while they talk,” Sheree explains. “There are big art books, markers and fidget tools for those with differing sensory needs.”
Other activities—like clay, collage, and grounding exercises—often occur. “Sometimes we’ll take the session outside into the backyard for a grounding exercise, like putting their feet on the earth,” she adds. “It’s about meeting the young person where they are.”
For 16-year-old Leon, a member of the Lismore Youth Advisory Group, the experience felt less clinical and more conversational. “It wasn’t what I expected—more like sitting on a couch and chatting. They’d ask questions, but mostly I just got to talk. It was nice.”
Making space for what matters
The Make Space theme highlights the importance of carving out time for things that support wellbeing. For Leon, music is a core outlet: “I play the drums and I’m learning bass. Music helps me focus and lets me release energy. It’s something I can do just for me, without worrying about messing up.”
Sheree agrees that small, enjoyable activities count. “Many people try to cram life full, but it’s crucial to make space for things that help you unwind,” she notes. “Drawing, painting, or simply a colouring book can offer low-stakes relief.”
Seeking support: a simple, accessible step
For youth uneasy about reaching out, Leon offers practical reassurance: “There’s no risk to it. If you don’t like it, you don’t have to keep going. But just talking to someone can make a big difference.”
Headspace CEO Jason Trethowan emphasizes accessibility and reassurance: “You don’t have to go through this alone—help is available through centres, online services, or community support.” Sheree notes that consultations are free and eheadspace is available via mobile devices for nervous first-timers.
Despite lingering stigma, progress is visible. Leon observes that attitudes are shifting, and conversations about mental health are increasingly normalised. “There’s no harm in trying. Just go for it.”
Take the first step this headspace day
If you or someone you know could benefit from support, headspace offers a range of resources. Visit the headspace interactive activities page for wellbeing ideas, or contact your local centre: Ballina, Lismore or Tweed Heads. Staff at headspace Lismore, headspace Ballina, and headspace Tweed Heads remain committed to creating a space that feels like yours, with flexible options that put young people in the driver’s seat.
About headspace centres
Headspace Lismore, headspace Tweed Heads and headspace Ballina are operated by Social Futures and funded by Healthy North Coast through the North Coast PHN Program. If you’re unsure where to start, calling or dropping in can be a simple first step toward sustained wellbeing.
