Youth Focus is a private non-profit community organisation committed to the prevention of suicide, depression and self harm in young people aged 12-18 years. Established in 1994 Youth Focus has provided services to almost 5000 members of the West Australian Community. Receiving only 12% of the required operating funds from Government, Youth Focus relies heavily on the generosity and support of local businesses and corporations to provide services to 600 young people and 160 families each year.

Youth Focus provides services across the metropolitan area and in Rockingham/Kwinana, Mandurah, Bunbury and Collie. Demand for services provided by Youth Focus has continued to increase each year. During the 2007-2008 financial year almost 300 young people were unable to access Youth Focus counselling and support services due to lack of financial and human resources. 

Youth Focus employs a range of Counsellors including Social Workers, Psychologists and Occupational Therapists to provide a range of early intervention and prevention services free of charge, aimed at supporting young people and their families to overcome the issues associated with depression suicide and self harm.  

Youth Counselling

University qualified Counsellors provide professional and confidential service to young people who are in need of counselling and support. Counsellors assist young people to understand the challenges they are facing and help individuals to develop practical life skills, coping strategies and identify realistic solutions to their current issues. Counselling is provided at our centrally located office in Burswood and on an outreach basis where appropriate.

Family Counselling

Families play an important role in assisting and supporting young people to overcome the problems they are currently facing.  Family Counsellors work independently with families or in partnership with the young person’s counsellor to develop a holistic family approach to reducing and overcoming the impact issues associated with depression, suicide and self harm can have on a family.

Peer Support Program

Young people struggling with issues associated with depression suicide and self harm generally feel isolated and alone. Through the Peer Support program, young people will have the opportunity to share their thoughts and feelings with others experiencing similar difficulties and learn how others cope with and overcome life’s challenges. Through the pre-camp groups, weekend therapeutic camp and the post camp groups, young people will meet new friends and develop essential life skills.

Mentor Program

Volunteers are assessed, police screened and complete an eight week Mentor Training Program.  Mentors are carefully selected to provide positive role modelling and support to young people while assisting the Mentee to develop new life skills including, positive self-esteem, communication, conflict resolution and problem solving. Mentors work in conjunction with the young person’s Counsellor who offers support to the Mentor and the Mentee.

Volunteer Program

Youth Focus provides a range of opportunities for sponsors, supporters and members of the community to assist Youth Focus through volunteering. Volunteers are valuable members of the Youth Focus team and aid in the delivery and co-ordination of our events and fundraising activities, Peer Support and Mentoring Programs.

Governed by a Board of Directors offering strategic and financial direction and operating with an annual budget of $3.9 million Youth Focus employs 30 staff members. Youth Focus also receives substantial support from local businesses and corporations through the provision of pro bono and discounted services including legal advice, financial advice and building construction.