Lay Counselling Services

Our Lay Counselling Programme provides confidential online counselling for young adults and vulnerable populations across Southern Africa.

We are committed to supporting individuals who may otherwise have limited or no access to mental health services.

  • Counselling sessions are offered by trained lay counsellors, supported through ongoing supervision by registered mental health professionals.

    To request support, click “Book Session” and complete the intake form. You will be added to our waitlist and matched with a lay counsellor as soon as one becomes available.

    Once matched, a once-off commitment fee of R120 is required to access your first 12 sessions. This helps ensure consistent participation and supports the sustainability of the service.

  • Session Duration: 50 minutes

    Frequency: Typically once per week

    Platform & Scheduling: You and your lay counsellor will decide on the most convenient time and online platform for your sessions.

    If you have any questions or accessibility needs, feel free to reach out to us at:
    hello@mindmattersnpo.org

    1. Commitment & Communication: Please attend sessions or let us know if you are unable to— communication helps us support more people.

    2. Internet & Personal Space: Sessions are online so you'll need internet access and a quiet, private space.

    3. Consent: You’ll need to sign a consent form confirming your understanding of confidentiality, note that sessions will be recorded (only accessible to the lay counsellor and supervisor).

    4. Eligibility: You must be 18+ to join 🔞. We'll also ask for some basic personal information to meet ethical and legal requirements for providing counselling services.

  • ‍⚠️ Need Urgent Help?

    Please note that wait times for our service may vary. If you're in crisis, here is list of alternative mental health resources available in your area. We want you to get the help you need.

    South African Anxiety and Depression Group

    0800 21 22 23  (8am to 8pm)

    0800 12 13 14  (8pm to 8am)

    Or SMS 31393

    Lifeline

    National Counselling Line: +27 861 322 322

    Gender Violence Helpline: +27 800 150 150 ‍

    Email: safetalking@lifeline.org.za

    Working hours: Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm

    For other support resources see:

    ‍Community clinic/ hospital emergency psychological services:

    Call 10111 and ask the police to do a welfare check

    Dial 112 in an emergency

Request a Session

  • "Before joining the program I really struggled with living alone, during my counselling sessions my perspective to living alone change so much that I started enjoying the peace of living alone. Thank you to the program."

    -Culumanco, Female

  • “This was my first time attending therapy and I had such a wonderful experience. I had a good experience with my lay counsellor and made therapy so fulfilling and helpful.”

    -Anonymous

  • “I was going through a lot, due to not having finances to finish school and I didn’t have support from anyone. However, it helped me to see life differently and appreciate it”

    -Anonymous

  • "This program is incredibly accessible for those who can't afford therapy and are seeking support. It was especially helpful during the lowest points in my mental health. The counsellors, who are studying through the program, provided tools to help me work through challenges."

    -Anonymous

  • “Last year, I faced several challenges, primarily related to grief, stress and anxiety stemming from work and personal issues. The therapy sessions were instrumental in helping me navigate these challenges.”

    -Anonymous