Counselling
Counselling is a social support service provided to individuals, families, and communities who are experiencing personal, social, emotional, or psychological challenges. The service aims to promote well-being, strengthen coping skills, and support individuals in managing difficult life situations.
The Department of Social Development provides counselling services through social workers and registered service providers. These services are offered to support individuals, families, and vulnerable groups in addressing social, emotional, and behavioural challenges.
Counselling services may be provided on a short-term or ongoing basis, depending on individual needs and circumstances.
Who can apply
You can apply if you are:
· An individual experiencing emotional, psychological, or social distress
· A family or household requiring support
· A child, youth, older person, or person with a disability requiring assistance
· A caregiver or authorised representative seeking support on behalf of another person
Counselling services are provided at no cost by the Department of Social Development.
Reasons to apply
You may need counselling services if:
· You are experiencing personal or family difficulties
· You are affected by trauma, loss, abuse, or neglect
· You are struggling with relationships, stress, or mental health challenges
· You require guidance, support, or intervention from a social worker
How to apply
- Visit a Department of Social Development office offering Social Development services.
- Request counselling or social work support.
- Complete an intake or assessment process with a social worker.
- Attend scheduled counselling sessions as advised.
Some referrals may come from schools, clinics, courts, or community organisations.
Tip: Always confirm service availability before visiting, as counselling services may be provided by appointment.
Types of counselling services
Individual counselling
· Support for personal, emotional, or psychological challenges
Family counselling
· Support to improve family relationships and functioning
Child and youth counselling
· Support for children and young people experiencing behavioural or emotional difficulties
Trauma and crisis counselling
· Support following traumatic events, abuse, or emergencies
Applying for ongoing support
Ongoing counselling support may be recommended following an initial assessment.
This may include:
· Scheduled follow-up sessions
· Referral to specialised services
· Community-based support programmes
The duration and type of support depend on assessed needs.
Documents required
The documents required depend on the nature of the counselling service requested.
For counselling services
· Applicant’s ID or valid identification (where available)
· Referral letter (if referred by another institution, where applicable)
Important: Counselling services are confidential. Requirements and procedures may vary depending on individual circumstances. Always confirm with your nearest Social Development office before visiting.
Thusong Service Centres
Manne Dipico
Operating hours:
07h30 – 16h00, Mon – Friday
Augrabies
Operating hours: Services are available according to scheduled visits once per month
Loeriesfontein
Operating hours: Services are available according to scheduled visits once per month
Contact information
Department of Social Development Call Centre: 0800 60 10 11
Website: www.dsd.gov.za