Guidance Counsellor

Kia Ora, I'm James McFelin, Verdon College's School Guidance Counsellor. I have been at Verdon College since 2012 and love the supportive and friendly environment on offer for staff, students and whanau. There are many challenges that our students face in their day to day lives and it is important that they are provided with the necessary strategies to deal with them. I love working with students and their families to help develop and implement these strategies in their lives. Students can see me in my office at any time during the school day, whilst parents are free to connect through phone or email. See below for some useful services in Southland and free help lines.


Local Services
Thrive – 0800 292 988 – A free face to face professional counselling service for young people aged 12 to 24 and their family. It’s safe, non-judgemental and completely confidential. If you’re experiencing some difficulties with mental health or substance use then we may be able to support you.
‍Number 10 – 03 214 1013  or  027 472 4703 – Provides free health and social services for rangatahi aged 10-24.
Awarua Whanau Services - 0800 292 782 - A range of services including free counselling and whanau support.
‍Nga Kete Mātauranga – 0800 925 242 – Delivers a range of services including addiction counselling, gambling harm counselling, disability support and advocacy, Restorative Justice, Whānau Ora, community nursing services and He Puna Waiora Wellness Centre (A Low Cost Access doctor service) among others.
‍CAFS – Child Adolescent and Family Services – 03 214 5753 or 0800 44 33 66
‍YMCA –  (03) 218 2989

Useful Phone Numbers
Youthline -  www.youthline.co.nz - Free text 234
Call/txt 1737 to speak to a counsellor
‍Free call 0800 376 633‍