In the MIA, a lot rides on the water. Allocations, prices and decisions made far away shape the year for rice and cotton growers, citrus and grape growers, and everyone who works the packing sheds, wineries and processing plants. When the pressure builds, the nearest psychologist can feel a long way off, especially from Hay, Hillston or Coleambally.
Regenerative Psychology supports people aged 16 and over across Griffith, Leeton, Narrandera, Hay, Hillston, Coleambally, Darlington Point and the surrounding district by telehealth. You can talk with a psychologist from home, without the drive or a day off work.
What people in the MIA come to us for
- Stress about water allocations, Basin Plan decisions and what they mean for the business
- Financial pressure, labour shortages and the long hours of harvest and packing season
- Family business tension, including succession and working alongside relatives
- Balancing family and cultural expectations with your own needs
- Isolation on properties and in smaller towns further out
- Feeling flat, on edge or not sleeping, and not quite knowing why
How sessions work
Sessions run by secure video, or by phone when the internet isn’t up to it. If reception is patchy where you live or work, phone sessions are always an option. You’ll need a private spot and about an hour. Where we can, we’ll book around the busy times of your year.
With a Mental Health Treatment Plan and referral from your GP, you may be eligible for Medicare rebates. Our Medicare referrals page explains what a valid referral needs.
Local services that can support you alongside us
Telehealth works best as part of a local support network. These services in the MIA can help too.
- GPs for a Mental Health Treatment Plan: Griffith Medical Centre (Griffith), Leeton Medical Centre (Leeton), Narrandera Medical Centre (Narrandera) and Hay Medical Centre (Hay). Many other GP practices also provide treatment plans, please consult your doctor for advice.
- Community mental health: Murrumbidgee Local Health District. Call the NSW Mental Health Line on 1800 011 511, 24 hours a day.
- Aboriginal health: Griffith Aboriginal Medical Service, 32/42 Jondaryan Avenue, Griffith, (02) 6962 0000. In Hay, Hay Aboriginal Medical Service.
- Rural financial counselling: Rural Financial Counselling Service NSW – Southern Region, 1800 319 458. Free, confidential help with farm and small business finances.
- Interpreters: The Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS National) is on 131 450.
- Community connection: Griffith Shed for Men (find others at mensshed.org), and headspace Griffith for young people aged 12–25.
Why reaching out earlier helps
In the country, many people wait until things feel unmanageable before getting support. Distance, cost, privacy and a strong “she’ll be right” culture all play a part. Reaching out earlier can give you more choice about how and when you get support. You don’t need to wait until you’re in crisis to talk to someone.
Want to know more? Read Is telehealth right for you?
For employers in the MIA
Farms, packing sheds, wineries and processors across the MIA depend on their people, often through the hardest weeks of the year. Rural Mind Matters offers an Employee Assistance Program designed for rural workplaces, so staff can get confidential support early. Find out about the Rural Mind Matters EAP.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get a Mental Health Treatment Plan from my GP in Griffith?
Yes. Book a longer appointment with your GP and say you’d like a Mental Health Treatment Plan and a referral to a psychologist.
Is telehealth as good as seeing someone in person?
Research suggests telehealth psychology can be as effective as face-to-face sessions for many common concerns, such as anxiety and depression. It doesn’t suit everyone, and if it isn’t the right fit for you, we’ll talk through other options.
Will anyone in town know I’m seeing a psychologist?
Your sessions are confidential, and there’s no clinic visit for anyone to notice. We’ll explain the limits of confidentiality at your first session.
What if I’m out at Hay or Hillston with patchy internet?
Sessions can be done by phone. Just let us know when you book.
Can I have a session with an interpreter?
Yes. We can arrange a session with a professional interpreter through TIS National. Let us know your preferred language when you book.
Book a session
Book an appointment or make an enquiry. We’ll get back to you within two business days.
Nearby areas we also support: Wagga Wagga & the Eastern Riverina, Albury–Wodonga & surrounds, or see all areas we support.
Need help now? If you are in crisis or worried about your safety, call 000, or Lifeline on 13 11 14, any time of day or night.